Applying

All applications must be submitted on-line through the Faculty of Graduate Studies web-based system. The online admission application system will be available starting September 1st and will have a deadline of January 15.

Applications, including the following uploaded documents, must be submitted by 11:59pm (MST) on January 15:

1. Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. Read the Requirements for Acceptance of Uploaded Transcripts.
2. A Statement of Intent specifying your area of interest and plans for study in the graduate program in this department. This letter of intent can be up to a maximum of 1000 words, double spaced, (paper size 8 1/2" x 11", 1" margin, 12 point font). This is the Department's first introduction to you, and gives us an idea of what you are interested in studying, how these interests fit into ongoing departmental research and whether we are the right place for you to pursue your academic goals.
3. Research Interests: Applicants to the MA and PhD Thesis programs must include a clearly defined statement of research interest which will be developed into an MA thesis or doctoral dissertation. This statement does not bind you in terms of your eventual research project, however, this description signals to us that you are capable of identifying a research topic that can be supervised by faculty members in our department. Ensure your statement is as specific as possible, refers to relevant academic literature, is well-written, and is no longer than 1000 words in length, double spaced, (paper size 8 1/2 x 11", 1" margin, 12 point font). PhD Applicants: Indicate the ways in which your proposed research builds upon your Master's work OR offer a rationale for your new research focus. This is not required of applicants applying to a Course-based program.
4. A detailed curriculum vitae (resume) outlining your scholarly studies. Include editorial credentials, work and professional activities and volunteer contributions.
5. An academic paper you have written (in English, not exceeding the maximum of 7000 words including references) in your area of interest (when possible), that is substantial in content and analysis. This should be solely authored by you in English. A successful term paper written for a course, published article, article manuscript, MA thesis or part thereof are acceptable. The Department's Graduate Admissions and Awards Committee will also use this to assess your analytical writing abilities.
6. Three references. At least two of the three references should be academic in nature from persons who are qualified to comment on your academic work and potential for graduate study. Where possible, one or more of the references should be from a person(s) from the institute last attended. The on-line application form has appraisal forms for your referees to complete ("Letter to Support Application for Graduate Admission"), and upload to the online application system. Note: electronic notifications will not be sent to your referees until you submit your application (and pay the application fee). Please ensure you submit your application early enough to allow your referees time to submit their reference prior to the application deadline. All three references must be in by January 15, in order for your application to be considered complete and move forward to the evaluation stage. Late references will not be accepted.
7. All foreign students who have not completed a degree at an English-language university (recognized by the University of Alberta) must demonstrate English Language Proficiency (ELP) by completing an approved English Language exam. Note, the Department of Sociology has slightly higher ELP requirements than those that are stated on the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research website.

Applications are not complete until the nonrefundable application fee has been paid.