Application Information
Although many of our graduate students come to us with a background in sociology, the department encourages students with academic backgrounds other than sociology to apply to the program as well. The Graduate Program Committee (GPC) reserves the right to require, upon admission, additional coursework that it deems necessary to make up any deficiencies in sociology.
Completed applications should be received by April 1st for admission to graduate study for the following Fall semester. Note that there is no funding available for the MA program. The application fee for graduate study at the University of Cincinnati is currently $65 for domestic applicants and $70 for international applicants. Except under specific circumstances, the Graduate College does not grant application fee waivers.
When you are ready, complete an on-line application!
Application materials
To be considered for admission, all students must submit the first five items; international students must submit all six. Applicants do not need to secure the approval of a faculty member to apply—all admissions decisions are handled by a centralized committee, so you should not contact faculty to ask them to sponsor you.
Transcripts
Students must submit transcripts from all undergraduate work and, if applicable, from graduate programs. The university requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, but this can be waived if the Department and Graduate School agree.
Letters of Recommendation
Students should submit three (3) letters from individuals familiar with their ability to carry out graduate level academic work.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae
Students must submit a current resume or CV.
Writing Sample
Applicants should provide a sample of their best academic writing, such as a master's or undergraduate thesis or a course paper.
Evidence of English Competence
The University of Cincinnati requires evidence of competence in the English language for students who (1) are applying from countries where English is not a national language, and (2) do not have a post-secondary degree from an English-speaking college or university.
- TOEFL: minimum score of 80 iBT
- In-person and at-home (online) exam scores accepted. TOEFL Essentials and My Best Test scores are not accepted.
- IELTS: minimum score of 6.5 overall band
- In-person and at-home (online) exam scores accepted. One Skill Retake is not accepted.
- Duolingo (DET): minimum score of 110
- PTE: minimum score of 54
Find more information at the Graduate Admissions English Language Requirements. Please note that Sociology does not have higher minimum test scores then required by the University.