Graduate Program Overview
Graduate students and faculty go apple picking together in Western New York every fall.
Committed to preparing graduate students for research-based careers in academic, private, or public sectors, the Department of Sociology and Criminology offers opportunities to develop close, collaborative relationships with award-winning and internationally-recognized faculty while gaining in-depth understanding of a wide variety of theoretical and methodological approaches in the following substantive areas:
Build Real-World Skills
Whether pursuing a PhD or master's degree, our students learn to become independent researchers. Faculty and graduate students routinely collaborate on innovative research studies, conference presentations, research grants, and peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, our students develop teaching skills through teaching assistantships and lectureships, and benefit from regular pro-seminars and visiting speakers. Within our tightknit cohorts, many students begin building their future networks of professional support.
How do you apply the skills you learned as a Sociology MA student to your current position?
“I am able to provide pragmatic answers to business problems and queries by analyzing large data and researching background context using the quantitative data analysis and research skills that I learned at UB.”
– Albert Kim, MA 2019, Research Analyst, American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers
How have the skills you learned as a Sociology PhD student helped you in your current position?
“The research and teaching skills I developed at University at Buffalo have allowed me to embed myself in communities in Southeastern Michigan and connect with my students in the classroom.”
– Watoii Rabii, PhD 2018, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Oakland University
“I use sociological theories and foundations every day with my colleagues and students. Every issue related to diversity work has sociological components that must be understood for a more just and equitable environment. The seminars and teaching experience I gained while at UB continues to be instrumental in my daily work.”
– Kiera Duckworth, PhD 2018, Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator, College at Brockport, SUNY
Learn More
Degrees
Funding
The Department of Sociology and Criminology offers 5-year assistantships, including $23,690 stipend plus tuition remission each year, to incoming PhD students.
Contact Us
We encourage prospective students to complete an information request form to learn more about pursuing graduate work in the Department of Sociology and Criminology. Current students may contact their faculty advisor or the Director of Graduate Studies with questions.