The Master of Arts program helps students develop their theoretical perspectives and qualitative and quantitative research skills, providing a strong foundation in sociological training for those who plan to pursue a doctoral degree. The program also prepares students for research-oriented careers in the public and private sectors.

The Doctor of Philosophy program prepares students for careers in teaching and research. The program trains students to conduct theoretically informed and methodologically sophisticated sociological research, equipping graduates to work independently and communicate their findings across a variety of scholarly and professional contexts. The program is designed to provide both broad knowledge of the discipline and rigorous training in research methods.

Students are expected to develop an independent research program, carry out original scholarship, and prepare their work for scholarly publication. This is achieved through coursework, seminars, comprehensive examinations, paid appointments as research and teaching assistants, and supervised dissertation research.