Graduate Certificate in Advanced Research Methods

This certificate trains Masters-level sociologists in a range of sociological research methods. Completion of the certificate provides evidence of competence in tools of quantitative and qualitative research methodology, which can be beneficial for enhancing future career options. Specific methodologies/skills covered include:

•       Advanced statistics (including multiple regression and path analysis)
•       Statistical modeling software (SPSS)
•       Participant observation
•       Content analysis
•       Ethnographic methods
•       Program evaluation
•       Development of predictive/explanatory models

In today’s data driven culture, the ability to design, carry out and appropriately interpret modeling projects that make sense of large data sets are skills that are marketable to private (e.g. market research analysts), non-profit and state employers as well as for those students interested in pursuing the PhD.

For more information, contact the Certificate Coordinator, Frank Zang.

General Requirements

• Minimum requirement for completion: four courses, for a total of 12-14 credit hours.
• A minimum grade of 3.3 is required for each course applied toward the certificate.
• All courses must be at the 5000 level or above in Sociology. Independent studies may not be applied.
• To complete the program, students are required to submit a transcript and a five-page self-statement, evaluating three different quantitative or qualitative research methods in application to various research projects. 
• The certificate will be mailed to recipients upon completion of a certificate audit and graduation, and will appear on the transcript.