About Master’s Program,
Discover the unparalleled opportunities that await you at McMaster University’s MA Sociology program. Our graduate programs are designed to provide you with the expertise and experience needed to thrive in the ever-evolving field of sociology.
Whether you’re a recent graduate or a professional seeking to enhance your skills, McMaster offers a dynamic and supportive environment to help you reach your full potential.
At McMaster University, our MA Sociology program stands out for its comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding social phenomena. We delve into critical areas such as work, education, health, social inequality, immigration, race and ethnic relations, paid and unpaid work, social movements, and politics. Our curriculum is designed to provide a deep and nuanced understanding of these complex issues, preparing you to make significant contributions to the field.
What sets our program apart is the close mentorship you will receive from our distinguished faculty members. Our professors are leading scholars in their areas of expertise, and they are dedicated to guiding you through your academic journey. This mentorship, combined with our emphasis on rigorous scholarship, ensures that you are well-prepared to engage with the latest developments in sociology, both in Canada and globally.
Master’s Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
- a four-year Honours degree in Sociology, Social Psychology or closely related social scientific field.
- minimum B+ averagein third and fourth level courses in the discipline (first class standing, 78%, 9/12 or 3.3/4.0).
- Students with substantial coursework in sociology who have a non-Sociology degree but within a social sciences discipline will be considered.
The admissions process is competitive; meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Master’s Funding Coverage,
The Department of Sociology at McMaster University offers financial support to incoming graduate students to help them to excel at their studies and to complete their graduate programs in a timely manner. Funding for graduate study usually comprises a combination of monies from graduate scholarships, teaching assistantships and research assistantships.
For additional information, please visit the School of Graduate Studies Tuition, Fees and Scholarships website.
- Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGSM)
All Master’s applicants should apply for this federal scholarship if they meet the eligibility requirements. Please choose McMaster as one of your three choices for university. Students receiving this award must complete either the major research paper option or thesis option as original research is a requirement of the award. Value: $27,000 one academic year; non-renewable.
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship and Ontario Graduate Fellowship
All applicants for the CGSM scholarship above will also be considered for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship and Ontario Graduate Fellowship. Value OGS: $15,000 one academic year. OGF: $12,000 one academic year.
- Daniel G. Hill Entrance Scholarship
McMaster Sociology has established the Daniel G. Hill Scholarship to support the graduate education of Black students. Please indicate your eligibility on your application.
- First Nations, Inuit and Métis Awards
Please apply directly to the following scholarships
• Harvey E. Longboat Graduate Scholarship
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship for Indigenous Students
Application Requirement,
English Language Proficiency
Online Application
Transcripts
Statement of Interest
Department Areas/Supervisor
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Writing Sample
Letters of Recommendation
CV or Resume
Application Deadline,
Jan 15, 2026
Application Fee,
The application fee ($150 CAD).