Explore academic programs

Graduate study here is deliberately small. Seminars are capped at 12–15 students, meet in the department's own conference and computer rooms, and put you in the same hallway as the faculty you'll work beside.
Students in a classroom shot from behind closed doors looking in
Sociology MA
Advance your expertise in sociological research and theory while preparing for leadership roles in education, policy analysis and community development. Transform undergraduate knowledge into specialized research competency.
Student presents her "Brainstorming" ideas
Applied Sociology PhD
Pioneer new knowledge in sociological research while developing expertise that informs policy and creates positive change. Become the scholar-practitioner whose work transforms communities and institutions.

Why our Graduate program

Graduate study in sociology at UofL is built around relationships. Our graduate community is small enough that students develop strong mentoring relationships with faculty – as members of thesis, exam and dissertation committees, and as collaborators on conference presentations and manuscripts.

A Program That Fits Working Lives

Courses meet in person once a week in the late afternoon or early evening, capped at 12–15 students, in the department's own conference and computer rooms. Some students attend full-time; many are working professionals – including several UofL employees – attending part-time.

Where Our Graduates Go

Alumni have built careers in academia and across the public and private sectors: Americana World Community Center, Community Action Partnership, Greater Louisville Inc., Home of the Innocents, Humana, the Kentucky Attorney General's Office, Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness, Seven Counties Services, the U.S. Census Bureau and more.

Funding

We support graduate students through assistantships, doctoral fellowships and Rieger endowment support. Apply by December 15 for fall admission to be considered for funding (spring PhD admission: October 1; no spring MA or summer admission).

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Connect with our graduate team to learn more about the programs, discuss your research interests or plan a campus visit.