Social Science, MS

Program Description

The Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice offers the MS degree in Social Science, focusing on the acquisition of social science knowledge and research skills, emphasizing theory application and practical field experience. Program requirements include courses in both quantitative and qualitative methods, survey design and social theory. Students are prepared for employment in industry; non-profits; federal, state and local government agencies; as well as to pursue a doctorate. Both thesis (36 credits) and non-thesis (30 credits) options are available.

Departmental faculty from all three disciplines are committed to providing students with opportunities for academic and professional development and believe that individuals continue to develop their expertise throughout their careers. The MS program provides a variety of opportunities to engage in scholarly and professional development activities outside the classroom, including participation in professional conferences, internships, and applied projects. Students are encouraged to become active members of national, regional, and state academic and professional associations, and to participate in as many of these development activities as possible while at Clemson in order to build a network of contacts before graduation.

Students selecting the thesis option complete and publicly defend a project representing a significant contribution to the body of knowledge in the discipline that is the focus of the thesis project. Students selecting the non-thesis option must pass a departmentally administered comprehensive examination.

Additional information about the MS in Social Science may be found at https://www.clemson.edu/cbshs/departments/sociology/graduate/index.html.