Mar 29, 2024  
2021-2022 Graduate Catalog 
    
2021-2022 Graduate Catalog This is not the most recent catalog version; be sure you are viewing the appropriate catalog year.

Social Science [M.A.]


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs by Department

The Master of Arts in Social Science is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to take Anthropology, Criminology, Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, and Sociology courses. The program emphasizes flexibility, allowing students to tailor their coursework and research to their individual interests and objectives. Successful graduates of the program are prepared for various educational and professional opportunities, including additional expertise in elementary and secondary education, careers in the public and private sectors, and entrance to doctoral programs.

Program Admission


Graduate School Application

After reviewing the admission requirements below, please select the appropriate application. The University is transitioning application platforms; pay close attention when selecting the application below.

The program you are applying to may not accept applicants every semester.

For additional information regarding the application process, please see Graduate Admissions or International Admissions.

Admission Requirements

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

A four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or an equivalent degree from a non-U.S. institution. In addition, a minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale, or 3.0 in the last half of the undergraduate program, is required for full admission. Applicants who do not meet minimum admission requirements may be considered for conditional admission. See International Admissions for international applicant requirements.

Applicants must also meet the following program requirements:

  1. Have at least 30 hours of undergraduate courses in Anthropology, Criminology, Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, and/or Sociology. 
  2. Complete a personal statement of no more than 500 words describing your interest in studying Social Science at EMU and how the MA in Social Science will enable you to attain your career and/or educational goals.

Department Information


History & Philosophy | ​Peter Higgins, Ph.D., Department Head | 701 Pray-Harrold, 734.487.1018, phiggin1@emich.edu

Advisor Information


Ronald Delph, Ph.D., Graduate Coordinator, 701 Pray-Harrold, 734.487.1018, rdelph@emich.edu

New students should arrange an early conference with the graduate advisor to plan their programs in detail.

Degree Requirements: 30 hours


The M.A. in Social Science requires the completion of 30 hours of course work to be distributed among major concentration courses, restricted elective courses and elective courses as follows. The graduate advisor, before registration each semester, must approve all course selections.

Major Concentration: 12 hours


At least six hours at the 500- or 600-level in one of the following: economics, geography (courses classified as social science), history, political science (one course from each of three groups, as specified by the department), or sociology/anthropology.

Restricted Elective Courses: 12 hours


Select twelve hours from at least two other disciplines listed above.

Elective Courses: 6 hours


Select six hours of social science or any other graduate courses offered by the University.

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs by Department