Print and PDF Options

Department of Sociology and Anthropology
(Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences)
Loeb Building B742
613-520-2582
carleton.ca/socanth

This section presents the requirements for programs in:

Program Requirements

Transfer from Thesis to Course Work M.A.

Students who choose to change from the thesis to the course work program must normally do so before registering for a third term after initial, full-time registration, or before registering for a fifth term after initial part-time registration.

M.A. Sociology (5.0 credits)

Requirements - thesis pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2. 2.0 credits in courses. With department permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.2.0
3.  2.0 credits in:2.0
SOCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis
4. An oral examination on the candidate's thesis and program
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - research essay pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  3.0 credits in courses. With department permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.3.0
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay
4. An oral examination on the candidate's research essay and program
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - course work pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  4.0 credits in courses. With department permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.4.0
Total Credits5.0

M.A. Sociology
with Concentration in Quantitative Methodology (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Thesis pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  1.0 credit from:1.0
SOCI 5102 [0.5]
Multiple Regression Analysis
SOCI 5104 [0.5]
Advanced Multivariate Analysis
3.  1.0 credit in SOCI at the graduate level (not including those listed above)1.0
With department permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.
4.  2.0 credits in a thesis2.0
5. An oral examination on the candidate's thesis and program
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Research Essay pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  1.0 credit from:1.0
SOCI 5102 [0.5]
Multiple Regression Analysis
SOCI 5104 [0.5]
Advanced Multivariate Analysis
3.  2.0 credits in SOCI at the graduate level (not including those listed above)2.0
With department permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.
4.  1.0 credit in a research essay1.0
5. An oral examination on the candidate's research essay and program0.0
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Coursework pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  1.0 credit from:1.0
SOCI 5102 [0.5]
Multiple Regression Analysis
SOCI 5104 [0.5]
Advanced Multivariate Analysis
3.  3.0 credit in SOCI at the graduate level (not including those listed above)3.0
With department permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.
Total Credits5.0

Students in the Concentration in Quantitative Methodology may arrange a work placement as 0.5 credit toward the program requirements as an approved option course.  Consult with the department of Sociology and Anthropology for further details.

Students in the Concentration in Quantitative Methodology may apply for admission into a Cooperative Education option.  See the Co-operative Education tab on this page for further details.

M.A. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in Accessibility (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Thesis pathway (5.0 credits):
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
ACCS 5001 [0.5]
Critical Disability Studies
ACCS 5002 [0.5]
Accessibility and Inclusive Design Seminar
3.  1.0 credit in SOCI at the graduate level (not including those listed above). With departmental permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.1.0
4.  2.0 credits in:2.0
SOCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis (in the specialization)
5. An oral examination on the candidate's thesis and program
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Research essay pathway (5.0 credits):
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
ACCS 5001 [0.5]
Critical Disability Studies
ACCS 5002 [0.5]
Accessibility and Inclusive Design Seminar
3.  2.0 credits in SOCI at the graduate level (not including those listed above). With departmental permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.2.0
4.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay (in the specialization)
5. An oral examination on the candidate's thesis and program
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Coursework pathway (5.0 credits):
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
ACCS 5001 [0.5]
Critical Disability Studies
ACCS 5002 [0.5]
Accessibility and Inclusive Design Seminar
3.  0.5 credit in a course designated as having sufficient accessibility content and approved by the Sociology graduate coordinator0.5
4.  2.5 credits in SOCI at the graduate level (not including those listed above). With departmental permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.2.5
Total Credits5.0

M.A. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in African Studies (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Thesis pathway (5.0 credits):
1.  1.0 credit in: 1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  1.5 credits in courses. With departmental permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.1.5
3.  2.0 credits in:2.0
SOCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis
4.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 5000 [0.5]
African Studies as a Discipline: Historical and Current Perspectives
5.  0.0 credit in:
AFRI 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in African Studies (5. 0.0 credit in:)
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Research Essay pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  2.5 credits in courses. With departmental permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.2.5
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay
4.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 5000 [0.5]
African Studies as a Discipline: Historical and Current Perspectives
5.  0.0 credit in:0.0
AFRI 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in African Studies
6. An oral examination on the candidate's research essay and program.
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Coursework pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  2.5 credits in courses excluding SOCI 5905. With departmental permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.2.5
3.  1.0 credit in courses designated as having sufficient African Studies content, including at least 0.5 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5404 [0.5]
Race, Ethnicity and Class in Contemporary Societies
ANTH 5109 [0.5]
Ethnography of Gender
ANTH 5209 [0.5]
Special Topics in Ethnography of Contemporary Africa
ANTH 5809 [0.5]
Special Topics in the Anthropology of Development
Or, a Sociology or Anthropology course approved by the Graduate Coordinator of the Institute of African Studies.
4.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 5000 [0.5]
African Studies as a Discipline: Historical and Current Perspectives
5.  0.0 credit in:
AFRI 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in African Studies
Total Credits5.0

M.A. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in Climate Change (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Thesis pathway:
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
CLIM 5000 [1.0]
Climate Collaboration
2.  0.0 credit in:
CLIM 5800 [0.0]
Climate Seminar Series
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
4.  1.0 credit in approved electives, chosen in consultation with the student's advisor1.0
5.  2.0 credits in:2.0
SOCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis (in the specialization)
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Research essay pathway:
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
CLIM 5000 [1.0]
Climate Collaboration
2.  0.0 credit in:
CLIM 5800 [0.0]
Climate Seminar Series
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
4.  2.0 credit in approved electives, chosen in consultation with the student's advisor2.0
5.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay (in the specialization)
Total Credits5.0

M.A. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in Data Science (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Thesis pathway (5.0 credits):
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
DATA 5000 [0.5]
Data Science Seminar
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5102 [0.5]
Multiple Regression Analysis
SOCI 5104 [0.5]
Advanced Multivariate Analysis
4.  0.5 credit in SOCI at the graduate level (not including those listed above). May be selected from courses at the 4000-level, with department permission.0.5
5.  2.0 credits in:2.0
SOCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis (in the specialization)
6.0 An oral examination on the candidate's thesis and program
Total Credits5.0
Requirements – Research Essay pathway (5.0 credits):
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
DATA 5000 [0.5]
Data Science Seminar
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5102 [0.5]
Multiple Regression Analysis
SOCI 5104 [0.5]
Advanced Multivariate Analysis
4.  1.5 credits in SOCI at the graduate level (not including those listed above). With department permission 0.5 credit may be selected from courses at the 4000-level.1.5
5.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay (in the specialization)
6. An oral examination on the candidate's research essay and program
Total Credits5.0

M.A. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in Digital Humanities (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Research essay pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  2.0 credits in courses. With departmental permission one of the courses may be 0.5 credit at the 4000-level.2.0
3. An oral examination on the candidate's research essay and program
4.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay (in the specialization)
5.  0.5 credit in:0.5
DIGH 5000 [0.5]
Issues in the Digital Humanities
6.  0.5 credit from: 0.5
DIGH 5011 [0.5]
Graduate Practicum in Digital Humanities
DIGH 5012 [0.5]
Directed Readings and Research in Digital Humanities
Or, annually listed DIGH course.
7.  0.0 credit in:0.0
DIGH 5800 [0.0]
Digital Humanities: Professional Development
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Thesis pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in: 1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
2.  1.0 credit in courses1.0
3.  2.0 credits in:2.0
SOCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis (in the specialization)
4. An oral examination on the candidate's thesis and program
5.  0.5 credit in:0.5
DIGH 5000 [0.5]
Issues in the Digital Humanities
6.  0.5 credit from: 0.5
DIGH 5011 [0.5]
Graduate Practicum in Digital Humanities
DIGH 5012 [0.5]
Directed Readings and Research in Digital Humanities
Or, annual listed DIGH course
7.  0.0 credit in:0.0
DIGH 5800 [0.0]
Digital Humanities: Professional Development
Total Credits5.0

M.A. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in Latin American and Caribbean Studies (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Thesis pathway:
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
LACS 5000 [0.5]
Interdisciplinary Approaches to Latin American and Caribbean Studies
2.  0.0 credit in:
LACS 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in Latin American and Caribbean Studies
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
4.  1.5 credits in electives1.5
5.  2.0 credits in:2.0
SOCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis (on an approved topic with significant content related to Latin American and Caribbean Studies)
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Research Essay pathway:
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
LACS 5000 [0.5]
Interdisciplinary Approaches to Latin American and Caribbean Studies
2.  0.0 credit in:
LACS 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in Latin American and Caribbean Studies
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
4.  2.5 credits in electives2.5
5.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay (on an approved topic with significant content related to Latin American and Caribbean Studies)
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Coursework pathway:
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
LACS 5000 [0.5]
Interdisciplinary Approaches to Latin American and Caribbean Studies
2.  0.0 credit in:
LACS 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in Latin American and Caribbean Studies
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 5005 [0.5]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
4.  0.5 credit from:0.5
ANTH 5109 [0.5]
Ethnography of Gender
SOCI 5404 [0.5]
Race, Ethnicity and Class in Contemporary Societies
SOCI 5409 [0.5]
The Politics of Social Movements and the State
5.  3.0 credits in electives, including 0.5 credit in course(s) designated as having sufficient Latin American and Caribbean Studies content, approved by both the Graduate Supervisor and the Coordinator of Latin American and Caribbean Studies3.0
Total Credits5.0

Ph.D. Sociology (3.0 credits)

Requirements:
1.  0.0 credit in:0.0
SOCI 6101 [0.0]
Introductory Doctoral Seminar
2.  1.0 credits in:1.0
SOCI 6102 [0.5]
Doctoral Seminar Year 1: Comprehensive Exam
SOCI 6103 [0.5]
Doctoral Seminar Year 2: Research Design
3.  0.5 credit in:0.5
SOCI 5008 [0.5]
Teaching Sociology
Or one of the following:
SOCI 5000 [0.5]
Classical Sociological Theory
SOCI 5001 [0.5]
Special Topics in Classical Theory
SOCI 5002 [0.5]
Contemporary Sociological Theory
SOCI 5003 [0.5]
Special Topics in Contemporary Theory
SOCI 5006 [0.5]
Thinking Sociologically
SOCI 5308 [0.5]
Decolonizing Feminist Analyses
SOCI 5309 [0.5]
Cultural Theory
SOCI 5400 [0.5]
Political Sociology
SOCI 5401 [0.5]
Critical Disability Studies
SOCI 5402 [0.5]
Queer Migrations
SOCI 5404 [0.5]
Race, Ethnicity and Class in Contemporary Societies
SOCI 5405 [0.5]
Power and Stratification
SOCI 5407 [0.5]
Genealogies of Politics and Governance
SOCI 5408 [0.5]
Feminism and Materialism
SOCI 5501 [0.5]
Phenomenology for Anthropologists and Sociologists
SOCI 5803 [0.5]
Critical Theory
SOCI 5804 [0.5]
Modern Marxist Theory
4.  1.5 credits in SOCI courses at the 5000- or 6000-level or, with the permission of the graduate supervisor, up to 1.0 credit of graduate level courses from another unit at Carleton1.5
5. Written and oral comprehensive examination in one area of specialization
6. Presentation of a thesis proposal
7.  0.0 credit in:0.0
SOCI 6909 [0.0]
Ph.D. Thesis
8. An oral defence of the thesis
Total Credits3.0

Ph.D. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in African Studies (3.0 credits)

Requirements - Standard Admission:
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 5000 [0.5]
African Studies as a Discipline: Historical and Current Perspectives
2.  0.0 credit in:0.0
AFRI 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in African Studies
3.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 6000 [0.5]
Thinking from Africa: Historical Perspectives, Contemporary Dimensions
4.  0.0 credit in:0.0
SOCI 6101 [0.0]
Introductory Doctoral Seminar
5.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 6102 [0.5]
Doctoral Seminar Year 1: Comprehensive Exam
SOCI 6103 [0.5]
Doctoral Seminar Year 2: Research Design
6.  0.5 credit in:0.5
SOCI 5008 [0.5]
Teaching Sociology
OR one of the following:
SOCI 5000 [0.5]
Classical Sociological Theory
SOCI 5001 [0.5]
Special Topics in Classical Theory
SOCI 5002 [0.5]
Contemporary Sociological Theory
SOCI 5003 [0.5]
Special Topics in Contemporary Theory
SOCI 5006 [0.5]
Thinking Sociologically
SOCI 5308 [0.5]
Decolonizing Feminist Analyses
SOCI 5309 [0.5]
Cultural Theory
SOCI 5400 [0.5]
Political Sociology
SOCI 5401 [0.5]
Critical Disability Studies
SOCI 5402 [0.5]
Queer Migrations
SOCI 5404 [0.5]
Race, Ethnicity and Class in Contemporary Societies
SOCI 5405 [0.5]
Power and Stratification
SOCI 5407 [0.5]
Genealogies of Politics and Governance
SOCI 5408 [0.5]
Feminism and Materialism
SOCI 5501 [0.5]
Phenomenology for Anthropologists and Sociologists
SOCI 5803 [0.5]
Critical Theory
SOCI 5804 [0.5]
Modern Marxist Theory
7.  0.5 credit in SOCI courses at the 5000- or 6000-level or, with the permission of the graduate supervisor, up to 0.5 credit of graduate level course from another unit at Carleton0.5
8. Written and oral comprehensive examination in one area of specialization
9. Presentation of a thesis proposal
10.  0.0 credit in:0.0
SOCI 6909 [0.0]
Ph.D. Thesis (in the specialization)
11. An oral defence of the thesis
Total Credits3.0

Ph.D. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in African Studies (Advanced Completion Option - 2.5 credits)

Applicants to the Ph.D. Sociology with Collaborative Specialization in African Studies who have completed a master's program with specialization in African Studies may be considered for admission to an advanced completion option of the Ph.D.

Requirements - Advanced Completion Option:
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 6000 [0.5]
Thinking from Africa: Historical Perspectives, Contemporary Dimensions
2.  0.0 credit in:0.0
SOCI 6101 [0.0]
Introductory Doctoral Seminar
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 6102 [0.5]
Doctoral Seminar Year 1: Comprehensive Exam
SOCI 6103 [0.5]
Doctoral Seminar Year 2: Research Design
4.  0.5 credit in:0.5
SOCI 5008 [0.5]
Teaching Sociology
OR one of the following:
SOCI 5000 [0.5]
Classical Sociological Theory
SOCI 5001 [0.5]
Special Topics in Classical Theory
SOCI 5002 [0.5]
Contemporary Sociological Theory
SOCI 5003 [0.5]
Special Topics in Contemporary Theory
SOCI 5006 [0.5]
Thinking Sociologically
SOCI 5308 [0.5]
Decolonizing Feminist Analyses
SOCI 5309 [0.5]
Cultural Theory
SOCI 5400 [0.5]
Political Sociology
SOCI 5401 [0.5]
Critical Disability Studies
SOCI 5402 [0.5]
Queer Migrations
SOCI 5404 [0.5]
Race, Ethnicity and Class in Contemporary Societies
SOCI 5405 [0.5]
Power and Stratification
SOCI 5407 [0.5]
Genealogies of Politics and Governance
SOCI 5408 [0.5]
Feminism and Materialism
SOCI 5501 [0.5]
Phenomenology for Anthropologists and Sociologists
SOCI 5803 [0.5]
Critical Theory
SOCI 5804 [0.5]
Modern Marxist Theory
5.  0.5 credit in SOCI at the 5000- or 6000-level or, with the permission of the graduate supervisor, up to 0.5 credit of graduate level course from another unit at Carleton0.5
6. Written and oral comprehensive examination in one area of specialization
7. Presentation of a thesis proposal
8.  0.0 credit in:0.0
SOCI 6909 [0.0]
Ph.D. Thesis (in the specialization)
9. An oral defence of the thesis
Total Credits2.5

Ph.D. Sociology
with Collaborative Specialization in Political Economy (3.0 credits)

Requirements:
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
PECO 6000 [0.5]
Political Economy: Core Concepts
2.  0.5 credit in:0.5
A relevant political economy course from the approved list or part of comprehensive preparation in the subfield of political economy
3.  0.0 credit in:0.0
SOCI 6101 [0.0]
Introductory Doctoral Seminar
4.  1.0 credit in:1.0
SOCI 6102 [0.5]
Doctoral Seminar Year 1: Comprehensive Exam
SOCI 6103 [0.5]
Doctoral Seminar Year 2: Research Design
5.  0.5 credit in:0.5
SOCI 5008 [0.5]
Teaching Sociology
Or one of the following
SOCI 5000 [0.5]
Classical Sociological Theory
SOCI 5001 [0.5]
Special Topics in Classical Theory
SOCI 5002 [0.5]
Contemporary Sociological Theory
SOCI 5003 [0.5]
Special Topics in Contemporary Theory
SOCI 5006 [0.5]
Thinking Sociologically
SOCI 5308 [0.5]
Decolonizing Feminist Analyses
SOCI 5309 [0.5]
Cultural Theory
SOCI 5400 [0.5]
Political Sociology
SOCI 5401 [0.5]
Critical Disability Studies
SOCI 5402 [0.5]
Queer Migrations
SOCI 5404 [0.5]
Race, Ethnicity and Class in Contemporary Societies
SOCI 5405 [0.5]
Power and Stratification
SOCI 5407 [0.5]
Genealogies of Politics and Governance
SOCI 5408 [0.5]
Feminism and Materialism
SOCI 5501 [0.5]
Phenomenology for Anthropologists and Sociologists
SOCI 5803 [0.5]
Critical Theory
SOCI 5804 [0.5]
Modern Marxist Theory
6.  0.5 credit in SOCI courses at the 5000- or 6000-level or, with the permission of the graduate supervisor, up to 1.0 credit of graduate level courses from another unit at Carleton0.5
7. Written and oral comprehensive examination in one area of specialization
8. Presentation of a thesis proposal
9.  0.0 credits in:0.0
SOCI 6909 [0.0]
Ph.D. Thesis (in the specialization)
10. An oral defence of the thesis
Total Credits3.0

Comprehensive Examinations

Each Ph.D. candidate is required to write comprehensive examinations in two of the following areas:

  • Theory and Methodology
  • Stratification and Power
  • Cultural Studies
  • Applied Social Research

Subjects of instruction and research subsumed under these four areas are:

Theory and Methodology

  • Logic of Social Scientific Inquiry
  • Classical Social Theories
  • Contemporary Social Theories
  • Feminist Theories
  • Research Methods (Historical, Qualitative, and Quantitative)

Stratification and Power

  • Occupations, Organizations, and the Labour Process
  • Class Analysis and Social Stratification
  • Political Sociology
  • Race and Ethnic Relations
  • Gender Relations
  • Political Economy
  • Canadian Society
  • Social and Economic Development
  • Citizenship Studies
  • Governance, Regulation, and Law

Cultural Studies

  • Communication and Popular Cultures
  • Ethnographic Analysis
  • Discourse Analysis
  • Social Anthropology
  • Social and Virtual Spaces

Applied Social Research

  • Criminal Justice
  • Health and Illness Policy
  • Population Studies
  • Sociology of Language
  • Built Environments
  • Education Policy

Upon petition to the sociology graduate program's coordinator, an approved field in sociology or a related discipline may be substituted for one of the options above. The subjects of instruction and research subsumed under each of the areas are indicative, and may be subsumed under more than one area, depending on the analytic approach adopted.

The comprehensive examinations are to be completed after course requirements for the Ph.D. have been completed. Comprehensive examinations must be completed no later than two years or six terms after initial full-time registration, and four years or twelve terms after initial part-time registration.

The thesis proposal is to be presented after comprehensive requirements have been completed. Normally the thesis proposal must be presented no later than two and one-half years or seven terms after initial full-time registration and five years or fifteen terms after initial part-time registration.

Graduate Diploma in Social Statistics and Data Analysis (2.0 credits)

Requirements (Type 2 and 3):
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
SOCI 5102 [0.5]
Multiple Regression Analysis
2.  0.5 credit in:0.5
SOCI 5104 [0.5]
Advanced Multivariate Analysis
3.  0.5 credit in:0.5
SOCI 5809 [0.5]
The Logic of the Research Process
4.  0.5 credit in elective, which must include a research methods component and be offered at Carleton at the graduate or fourth-year undergraduate level and be approved by the SSDA GDip coordinator.0.5
Total Credits2.0

Sociology (SOCI) Courses

SOCI 5000 [0.5 credit]
Classical Sociological Theory

Crucial sociological concepts and ideas by the founders of sociology. Attention will be given to Marx, Weber, Durkheim, Pareto, Comte, and Husserl.

SOCI 5001 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Classical Theory

Topic varies from year to year. Students should check with the Department regarding the topic offered.

SOCI 5002 [0.5 credit]
Contemporary Sociological Theory

Major theoretical perspectives in sociology, including social behaviourism; social action theories such as symbolic interactionism, phenomenological sociology, ethnomethodology; and structuralist theories such as structural functionalism, neo-Marxism and critical theory.

SOCI 5003 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Contemporary Theory

Topic varies from year to year. Students should check with the Department regarding the topic offered.

SOCI 5005 [0.5 credit]
Recurring Debates in Social Thought

Recurring issues and debates in the discipline. Topics such as the nature of social science; the objective world versus social construction; questions of evidence, meaning and measurement; agency versus structure; the relation between research and praxis; knowledge and power, may be considered.
Prerequisite(s): restricted to graduate students in sociology. Others may be admitted by permission of the Department.

SOCI 5006 [0.5 credit]
Thinking Sociologically

Critical examination of various theoretical approaches and the role of social theory in research and society.

SOCI 5008 [0.5 credit]
Teaching Sociology

A theory and hands-on course on university teaching for those who are starting to teach or will soon teach their first courses. Explores links between critical pedagogy and university teaching practices.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

SOCI 5102 [0.5 credit]
Multiple Regression Analysis

An in-depth study of multiple regression analysis and its application in social science research. Interpretation and communication of the results are emphasized. The course provides an overview of descriptive and inferential statistics. Students learn how to use STATA/SAS to analyze social survey data.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

SOCI 5104 [0.5 credit]
Advanced Multivariate Analysis

Commonly-used advanced statistical techniques. Topics may include factor analysis, multinominal logistic regression analysis, event history analysis, analysis of covariance, multilevel models and structural equation modeling. STATA/SAS is used in addition to specialized statistical software.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

SOCI 5105 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Social Research

Topic varies from year to year. Students should check with the Department regarding the topic offered.

SOCI 5106 [0.5 credit]
Research Design and Data Analysis

An integrated approach to the problems involved in the analysis of quantitative data, research design and procedures.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

SOCI 5107 [0.5 credit]
Advanced Qualitative Research Methods

In-depth study of a range of qualitative research methodologies. Students will sharpen their practical skills in developing research questions, gathering and analyzing data and presenting results. Students will engage in discussions of theoretical, methodological, and ethical issues and challenges in qualitative research.

SOCI 5201 [0.5 credit]
Comparative Methods in Social Research

Current analytical problems and applications of comparative methods in social research. Students are expected to individually conduct research or to participate in a group research project in which one or more of these methods will be applied.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

SOCI 5205 [1.0 credit]
Canadian Society

A critical examination of sociological models of modern societies and their relevance to Canada.

SOCI 5206 [0.5 credit]
Sociology of Occupations and Professions

A consideration of the development of occupational recruitment patterns and workforce issues, with attention to their sociological implications.

SOCI 5207 [0.5 credit]
Sociology of Formal Organizations

A consideration of the forms and processes of bureaucracy in modern society, government and industry.

SOCI 5209 [0.5 credit]
Sociology of Science and Technology

Study of the interaction among science, technology and change in modern societies.

SOCI 5303 [0.5 credit]
Sociology of Education

The relations between education and other social institutions, the structure of educational opportunity, educational systems and organizations, and the sociology of learning.

SOCI 5304 [0.5 credit]
Food Studies

A sociological analysis of food cultures. Possible topics include: the relationship between food and identity; social movements organized around food; and the production, preparation, consumption, and disposal of food.

SOCI 5305 [0.5 credit]
Police and Capital

The idea of `police' as a general historical project aimed at the fabrication of social order and the development of liberal philosophy, political economy and security. Contemporary public and private security provision considered in light of commodification, class conflict, and risk thinking.
Also listed as LAWS 5306.

SOCI 5306 [0.5 credit]
Cultural Studies

The relations between cultural practices and other social practices in definite social formations. Discussions are grounded through the choice of specific Canadian research on topics such as media, art, music, education, pedagogy, etc.

SOCI 5308 [0.5 credit]
Decolonizing Feminist Analyses

An examination of contemporary feminist approaches, including critical race perspectives on intersectionality and post-colonial feminism. Special emphasis on perspectives of Indigenous women and issues of settler-colonialism in Canada and elsewhere.

SOCI 5309 [0.5 credit]
Cultural Theory

A survey of developments in European and North American Marxist and Post-Marxist cultural theories of the past quarter century.

SOCI 5400 [0.5 credit]
Political Sociology

An examination of theoretical and empirical work on selected aspects of the state, politics and political behaviour, primarily in North America and Europe.

SOCI 5401 [0.5 credit]
Critical Disability Studies

Course engages contemporary disability theory, culture, and activism to consider bodily difference and its relation to the workings of power and social control, accessibility, normalization, ableism, and medicalization. Students will gain an understanding of the contemporary debates, theories, and methodologies of critical disability studies.
Also listed as ACCS 5001.

SOCI 5402 [0.5 credit]
Queer Migrations

Intersections of sexual and gender non-conformity and international migration using queer, anti-colonial, anti-racist and feminist theories. Examination of colonial histories of heteronormativity and contemporary manifestations of sexual (geo)politics.

SOCI 5403 [0.5 credit]
The Sociology of Solidarity

The possibilities and practices of solidarity raise core questions about how we understand the social, the other and how we can live together. The course explores these questions in inter-personal, community and global contexts.

SOCI 5404 [0.5 credit]
Race, Ethnicity and Class in Contemporary Societies

Various theoretical approaches concerning the persistence and re-emergence of ethnic and/or racial groups are examined. Particular emphasis is given to the intersection and overlap of ethnicity and race with social class.

SOCI 5405 [0.5 credit]
Power and Stratification

An examination of theories of elite behaviour, social class, and ideology.

SOCI 5406 [0.5 credit]
Citizenship and Globalization

Examination of debates about the changing nature of citizenship in the context of globalization of capital, culture and peoples. Employing post-Marshallian, political economic, post-structuralist, post-colonial and feminist perspectives, the seminar explores the emergence of market-driven, hierarchical and cosmopolitan notions of citizenship and transnational identities.

SOCI 5407 [0.5 credit]
Genealogies of Politics and Governance

Examination of Foucault’s genealogical method for doing critical studies of politics and governance. Topics may include governmentality, sovereignty, biopolitics, neoliberalism, citizenship, and colonialism.
Also listed as PSCI 5303.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4303, for which additional credit is precluded.

SOCI 5408 [0.5 credit]
Feminism and Materialism

Recent developments of feminist materialist theory and analyses. Topics may include: the gender division of labour; family and economy; gender and class; gender, race and ethnicity; sexuality; reproduction; theory and politics.

SOCI 5409 [0.5 credit]
The Politics of Social Movements and the State

Origins, ideologies, strategies and political implications of social and popular movements. May include attention to the peace, feminist, LGBT2SQ, disability, ecology, and anti-racism movements, as well as conservative, religious, and ethnonationalist movements.

SOCI 5501 [0.5 credit]
Phenomenology for Anthropologists and Sociologists

This seminar builds theoretical and methodological bridges between phenomenology and anthropology/sociology. Students read key texts from, among others, Husserl,Heidegger, Merleau-Ponty, Plessner, Schultz, and Waldenfels and learn to apply concepts in research. Topics include body and senses, intersubjectivity and life-world, selfhood and otherness.
Also listed as ANTH 5501.
Seminar

SOCI 5502 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Work and Labour II

Topics and emphasis vary from term to term according to current policies and events influencing the distribution and benefits of work and labour including migration, technological and environmental change, privatization, austerity, and transnational legislation.
Also listed as PECO 5504.

SOCI 5503 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Work and Labour I

Topics and emphasis vary from term to term according to current policies and events influencing the distribution and benefits of work and labour including migration, technological and environmental change, privatization, austerity, and transnational legislation.
Also listed as PECO 5503.

SOCI 5504 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Political Economy I

A special topic from current research in political economy. As the topic varies from year to year, students should check with the Department regarding the current offering.
Also listed as PECO 5501, PSCI 5501.

SOCI 5505 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Political Economy II

A special topic from current research in political economy. As the topic varies from year to year, students should check with the Department regarding the current offering.
Also listed as PECO 5502, PSCI 5502.

SOCI 5600 [0.5 credit]
Critical Discourse Analysis

Examination of the relations between discourse, social semiotics, extradiscursive semiotics and social organization.

SOCI 5605 [0.5 credit]
Demographic Analysis

Examination of classical debates and contemporary demographic issues such as low fertility, population aging and migration policies. Introduction to the concepts, tools and techniques that demographers use; focus on empirical demographic research.

SOCI 5606 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Sociology

Topic varies from year to year. Students should check with the Department regarding the topic offered.

SOCI 5607 [0.5 credit]
Contemporary Theories of Crime and Social Regulation

Recent developments in theories of criminality and social regulation. Particular reference will be made to the regulatory mechanisms of both public and private spheres within legal institutions, corrections, economic institutions, and the family.

SOCI 5707 [0.5 credit]
Crime, Social Control and Social Change

An examination of the role of the discourses and ideologies surrounding crime, criminal processes, and social change. Topics may include such issues as juvenile justice, victimization, corporate crime, criminalization of indigenous peoples, substance use and abuse.

SOCI 5708 [0.5 credit]
Contemporary Criminology Issues

This team-taught seminar addresses a series of contemporary issues in criminology and criminal justice. It introduces students to the research of a number of faculty from Sociology and Anthropology, Law and Legal Studies, or Criminology and Criminal Justice.

SOCI 5802 [0.5 credit]
Departmental Seminar

Topic varies from year to year. Students should check with the Department regarding the topic offered.

SOCI 5803 [0.5 credit]
Critical Theory

Recent developments in critical theory based upon its initial formulation by the Frankfurt School, with emphasis upon particular contemporary theories in a given year, e.g., J. Habermas, H. Willems, etc.

SOCI 5804 [0.5 credit]
Modern Marxist Theory

An examination of topics of theory and research in modern Marxist literature; the central focus is on problems of class analysis, the state, and politics in advanced capitalist societies.

SOCI 5805 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Sociology

Topic varies from year to year. Students should check with the Department regarding the topic offered.

SOCI 5806 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Sociology

Topic varies from year to year. Students should check with the Department regarding the topic offered.

SOCI 5809 [0.5 credit]
The Logic of the Research Process

An examination of the research process, including the phases of conceptualization, choice of indicators, sampling, data collection, and analysis. Published articles will be studied as exemplars of the range of possible research strategies.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

SOCI 5900 [0.5 credit]
Tutorial


SOCI 5904 [0.5 credit]
The Craft of Writing

Theoretical and practical resources for writing with ease at the graduate level. Techniques and tools for drafting, revision, elements of style, time and guilt management, and inspiration and liveliness as key parts of academic writing.

SOCI 5906 [0.5 credit]
Placement in Sociology

This course provides an opportunity to enhance educational experience through work placement. Students may not be enrolled in the Co-operative Work Term (SOCI 5913) and the Placement in Sociology (SOCI 5906) simultaneously.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.

SOCI 5908 [1.0 credit]
M.A. Research Essay

Students may enrol in this course for a maximum of three consecutive terms of study, including one summer term. Students must enrol in this course not later than the beginning of the second full year of study.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

SOCI 5909 [2.0 credits]
M.A. Thesis

Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

SOCI 5913 [0.0 credit]
Co-operative Work Term

Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): registration in the Sociology Master of Arts Cooperative Education program.

SOCI 6001 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Sociology

Topic varies from year to year. Students should check with the Department regarding the topic offered.

SOCI 6101 [0.0 credit]
Introductory Doctoral Seminar

Helps students to further develop their skills in grant applications writing, scholarly writing and conference presentations. Guides students in forming a supervisory committee, deciding on a comprehensive exam field, and preparing a reading list. Graded SAT/UNS.

SOCI 6102 [0.5 credit]
Doctoral Seminar Year 1: Comprehensive Exam

Development of self-awareness and skills as sociological scholars and writers. Topics include foundations of sociological research, critical literature reviews, and attendant theoretical issues. Supports students in research work management and writing their comprehensive exam paper.
Precludes additional credit for SOCI 6002 (no longer offered).
Prerequisite(s): SOCI 6101.

SOCI 6103 [0.5 credit]
Doctoral Seminar Year 2: Research Design

Topics include foundations of sociological research design and research methods. Supports students in writing their dissertation research proposal; breaks down into stages the crafting and drafting of the proposal. Continued attention to research work management and scholarly writing and conference presentations.
Precludes additional credit for SOCI 6003 (no longer offered).
Prerequisite(s): SOCI 6102.

SOCI 6900 [0.5 credit]
Tutorial


SOCI 6909 [0.0 credit]
Ph.D. Thesis

Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

Note: Not all courses listed are offered in a given year. For an up-to-date statement of course offerings for the current session and to determine the term of offering, consult the class schedule at central.carleton.ca.

Summer session: some of the courses listed in this Calendar are offered during the summer. Hours and scheduling for summer session courses will differ significantly from those reported in the fall/winter Calendar. To determine the scheduling and hours for summer session classes, consult the class schedule at central.carleton.ca

Regulations

See the General Regulations section of this Calendar.

Academic Standing

A grade of B- or better must normally be obtained in each credit counted toward the master's degree. With the recommendation of the department, and permission of the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, a candidate may be allowed a grade of C+ in 1.0 credit.

Regularly Scheduled Break

For immigration purposes, the summer term (May to August) for the M.A. Sociology, including all concentrations and specializations, is considered a regularly scheduled break approved by the University. Students should resume full-time studies in September.

Note:  a Regularly Scheduled Break as described for immigration purposes does not supersede the requirement for continuous registration in Thesis, Research Essay, or Independent Research Project as described in Section 8.2 of the Graduate General Regulations.

Regulations

See the General Regulations section of this Calendar.

Candidates must obtain a grade of B- or better in each credit, and Satisfactory on the comprehensive examinations, the Ph.D. thesis and its oral defence.

Co-operative Education

For information about how to apply for the Co-op program and how the Co-op program works, visit the Co-op website.

All graduate students participating in the Co-op program are governed by this Graduate Co-operative Education Policy.

Application Requirements

Graduate students are encouraged to apply to the Co-op Program during their first term of studies. Alternatively, students may delay their participation until later on, provided that they have mandatory credits remaining for degree completion.

Participation Requirements

Graduate students:

  • must be registered as full-time before they begin their co-op job search and their co-op work term.
  • will be registered in a Co-op Work Term course while at work. This course does not carry academic course credit, but is noted on academic transcripts.
  • may register in a 0.5 credit during a work term, provided the course is offered during the evening or is offered asynchronously online.
  • are not permitted to hold a Teaching Assistantship while on a co-op work term. Where eligible, Teaching Assistantships will be deferred to a later term.
  • in receipt of internal or external scholarships should contact the Faculty of Graduate and Post-Doctoral Affairs to discuss the possible funding implications of being on a co-op work term
  • must have mandatory courses left to complete following their final co-op work term. In cases where the graduate student has just a 0.5 credit left, he or she may request permission of the Co-op Office to complete this course during the work term.

Co-op Participation Agreement

All graduate students must adhere to the policies found within the Co-op Participation Agreement.

Communication with the Co-op Office

Graduate students must maintain regular contact with the Co-op Office during their job search and while on a work term. All email communication will be conducted via the student’s Carleton email account.

Graduation with the Co-op Designation

In order to graduate with the Co-op Designation, graduate students must satisfy all requirements of the degree program in addition to the successful completion of two work terms.  Students found in violation of the Co-op Participation Agreement may have the Co-op Designation withheld. 

Employment

Although every effort is made to ensure a sufficient number of job postings for all Co-op students, no guarantee of employment can be made. The Co-op job search process is competitive, and success is dependent upon factors such as current market conditions, academic performance, skills, motivation, and level of commitment to the job search. It is the student’s responsibility to apply for positions via the Co-op job board in addition to actively conducting a self-directed job search. Students who do not obtain a co-op work term are expected to continue with their academic studies. It should be noted that hiring priority for positions within the Federal Government of Canada is given to Canadian citizens.

Work Term Assessment and Evaluation

Work Term Evaluation

Employers are responsible for submitting to Carleton University final performance evaluations for their Co-op students at the end of their work terms.

Work Term Assessment

In order to successfully complete the co-op work term, graduate students must receive a Satisfactory (SAT) grade on their Co-op Work Term Report, which they must submit at the completion of each four-month work term.

Voluntary Withdrawal from the Co-op Option

Students who are currently on a co-op work term or who have already committed to a co-op work term either verbally or in writing may not leave the position and/or withdraw from the co-op option until they have completed the requirements of the work term.

Involuntary or Required Withdrawal from the Co-op Option

Graduate students may be removed from the Co-op Program for any of the following reasons:

  1. Failure to attend all interviews for positions to which the student has applied;
  2. Declining more than one job offer during the job search;
  3. Reneging on a co-op position that the student has accepted either verbally or in writing;
  4. Continuing a job search after accepting a co-op position;
  5. Dismissal from a work term by the co-op employer;
  6. Leaving a work term without approval from the Co-op Management Team;
  7. Receipt of an unsatisfactory work term evaluation;
  8. Receiving a grade of UNS on the work term report;

International Students

All Graduate International Students are required to possess a Co-op Work Permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada before they can begin working. The Co-operative Education Office will provide students  with a letter of support to accompany their Co-op Work Permit application. Students are advised to discuss the application process and application requirements with the International Student Services Office.

Co-op Fees

All participating Co-op students are required to pay Co-op fees. For full details, please see the Co-op website.

Co-operative Education Option
M.A. Sociology with Concentration in Quantitative Methodology

Students are encouraged to apply for admission to the Co-operative Education Program by the end of their first term of academic study.

To be eligible for admission to Co-op, students must:

  1. be enrolled in the M.A. in Sociology, Concentration in Quantitative Methodology;
  2. have successfully completed, by the start-date of the first work term, the required first-year core research methods courses (SOCI 5809 and at least 1.0 credit selected from: SOCI 5102, SOCI 5104, SOCI 5105, SOCI 5201, SOCI 5605);
  3. be registered as a full-time student in each academic term prior to a work term;
  4. be eligible to work in Canada (for off-campus work terms)

For more information, please refer to the Co-operative Education Policy

Admission

The requirement for admission into the master's program is a B.A.Honours or equivalent with at least high honours standing in sociology or a closely-related field. Where relevant, previous professional experience will be taken into account in determining an applicant's standing on admission.

Applicants with three-year non-honours bachelor's degrees may be admitted into a qualifying-year program designed to raise their standing to honours status. Students earning at least high honours standing in their qualifying-year courses will be considered for admission into the master's program. Refer to the General Regulations section of this Calendar for details of the regulations governing the qualifying year.

Accelerated Pathway 

The accelerated pathway in the Department of Sociology is a flexible and individualized plan of graduate study. Students in their final year of a Carleton B.A. Honours degree in Sociology, or equivalent, may qualify for this pathway.

Students in their third-year of study in the Carleton B.A. Honours degree in Sociology, or related discipline, should consult with both the Undergraduate Advisor and Graduate Advisor to determine if the accelerated pathway is appropriate for them and to confirm their selection of courses for their final year of undergraduate studies.

Accelerated Pathway Requirements

  1. Any two 0.5 credit 5000-level courses with a grade of B+ or higher
  2. Minimal overall CGPA of B+

Students may receive advanced standing with transfer of up to 1.0 credit which can reduce their time to completion of the M.A.

 

Admission

The minimum requirement for admission into the Ph.D. program is a master's degree (or the equivalent) in sociology, normally with a minimum average of B+ in courses (including the thesis where applicable), and with no grade below B

Applicants who have deficiencies in certain areas may be admitted to the Ph.D. program, but will normally be required to complete additional course work.

Admission

Type 2 Concurrent Program

At the time of admission, applicants to the Type 2 Graduate Diploma in Social Statistics and Data Analysis must be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program at Carleton University.

Type 3 Direct-entry Program

Applicants to the Type 3 Graduate Diploma in Social Statistics and Data Analysis must hold a bachelor's degree. Admission for prospective students without a degree will be considered if they have relevant work experience.