Applying for Graduate Study
The admissions process is competitive. We welcome applications from individuals whose academic interests match our areas of research expertise.
- The application deadline for Fall admission is January 15.
1) UH Mānoa Graduate Division
To apply to our program, prospective students must complete the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Graduate Application. Applicants submit the following to Graduate Division Student Services:
- completed Graduate Admissions Application
- application fee (fee cannot be waived)
- one transcript for each post-secondary institution attended
In addition, certain applicants may be required to submit the following:
- standardized exam scores (GRE scores are optional)
- Residency Declaration Form
- official TOEFL or IELTS exam scores (See International Students > English Proficiency.)
- proof of sufficient funding (See International Students > Financial Statement.)
All questions concerning the application and associated requirements should be directed to Graduate Division.
2) Department of Sociology
Starting with Fall 2025 applicants, the following supplemental materials specific to our graduate admission process will be collected through the same University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Graduate Application:
- Statement of purpose - While there is no standard form, this document should describe the applicant's research interests and explain why they want this degree program and to study in this particular department of sociology.
- Three letters of recommendation - There is no official form for letters of recommendation. Please have recommenders write their letters on their official letterhead and include their signature.
- Academic writing sample - A writing sample is required for PhD applicants but optional for MA applicants. In either case, samples should be chosen appropriately to show readiness of the applicant to engage in graduate-level work in sociology.
- Resume/CV
All questions concerning the Department of Sociology supplemental materials should be directed to the Graduate Chair.
General Requirements
Possessing an undergraduate degree in sociology is not required for admittance into the graduate program. However, those who do not have appropriate prior coursework (ex. sociological theory) will need to make up for these deficiencies, in addition to the usual degree requirements, if they are admitted and enrolled.
On a similar note, an MA degree is not required for admittance into the PhD program. In fact, if a student is planning to pursue a PhD eventually, it is recommended that they apply directly to the PhD program. Those admitted will be eligible to receive an MA degree as part of the program en route to a PhD.