Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated July 2007

What degree objective can I apply to in the Sociology Department?

 

We do not offer a terminal master’s degree. You can apply to our combine MA/PhD or to our PhD program.

What are the research interests of the faculty?

 

Please visit our website: http://www.soc.ucsb.edu/faculty.htm

How do I apply?

Application Tips

Application Checklist

Admission Requirements

 

In addition, please make sure to check the Sociology Graduate Program admission procedures.

 

What is the application deadline for Fall 2008 admissions?

 

December 10

You must complete and submit your electronic application on or before December 10. All application materials must be received by the Sociology Graduate Program Office no later than the December 10 deadline. We will accept mail that is postmarked with the deadline date.

 

Does the Sociology Department have rolling admissions?

 

No. The Sociology Graduate Program Office admits applicants once a year only for the fall quarter.

Where do I send my application materials?

 

All application materials are to be sent to the Sociology Graduate Program Office. The non-refundable $60.00 application fee is to be sent directly to Graduate Division (If you are paying by check).

 

I was admitted to the Sociology Department but am unable to attend, can I defer my admission?

 

No. Graduate Division does not allow deferments. If you are admitted but are unable to attend your admission quarter, you must reapply for admission. Readmission is not guaranteed.

 

I was admitted to the Sociology Department, how do I notify the Sociology Department that I wish to attend or not attend?

 

In order to officially inform the Sociology Department that you wish to attend or not attend UCSB, you need to complete the Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) online. The SIR can be accessed through your online application. Please login to your electronic application and look for the (SIR). Once completed, the Sociology Department will be able to view your decision.

 

When will admission decisions be made?

 

Generally, admission decisions will be made beginning in mid January and can last until February/March.  Applications are sent for admission consideration only when they are complete. It is to your benefit to complete your application as soon as possible.

 

How can I find out if all my application materials were received?

 

You may login to your Electronic Application (E-App) to view which application materials have arrived at the Sociology Department. To do so, please complete the following:

 

1.  Go to the Graduate Division Application website

https://www.graddiv.ucsb.edu/eapp/  and choose Login.

2.  Enter in your Username and Password and click on Enter Application.

3.  Scroll down to the Supporting Application Materials information. (To check if your official GRE or TOEFL (International applicants only) scores have arrived at UCSB, please look under the Application Status portion of your Electronic Application page.)

Once an admission decision is made (approximately January through March) you will be able to view the decision on your application status page.

Materials will be updated frequently, please check back often! Note: Information will only be entered in the Supporting Application Materials section when the Sociology Department has received your Statement of Purpose. This indicates to us that you are fully committed to completing the application process. If you have any questions regarding your application, please email: grad-soc@soc.ucsb.edu.

Can I mail my Transcripts/Letters of Recommendation to Sociology myself?

 

Yes, but there are restrictions. Applicants may mail Transcripts and/or Letters of Recommendation themselves, rather than having them directly from the institution or letter writer. However, these materials must be in sealed envelopes directly from the letter writer or institution. Order transcripts from all post-secondary educational institutions you have attended, including community colleges, summer sessions, and extension programs. In addition, letters of recommendation must be originals; we will not accept copies, faxes, or emails. It is strongly recommended that you send as many application materials as possible in one package.

 

I want to Reapply to the Sociology Department, what do I need to do?

 

Your application documentation is retained for one academic year.

 

  • Send written notification to our office, e-mail is acceptable, notifying us that you are considering reapplying for the next academic year. Email address: grad-soc@soc.ucsb.edu
  • Review our website www.soc.ucsb.edu for updated information for admissions.
  • Submit an electronic application (E-App) for Graduate Admission to the Graduate Division.

Graduate Division must receive the non-refundable application fee of $60.00, before they will process your application.

Send to the Sociology Graduate Program, any updated information such as the statement of purpose, transcripts, letter of recommendation or vita that provides additional information about your experience and future goals.

 

What is the GRE department code for the Sociology Department?

 

A department code is not required. Please instruct the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to report your scores to UCSB; our institution code is 4835.

Is there a minimum GRE score required?

 

No, the Sociology Department does not require a minimum GRE score.

 

How long will ETS keep my GRE score?

 

Current GRE Board policy states that your scores are reportable for 5 years. Your scores are retained for the 5 testing years following the testing year in which you tested.

What does the General GRE test consist of?

 

The General Test is a requirement when applying to the Sociology Department. The General Test is compromised of three sections: Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing. All three sections are required. Although ETS will allow an individual to take separate sections of the General test, UCSB does not. UCSB will only accept the most recent test date that contains a complete set General Test score with all three sections taken.

 

Can I retake individual sections of the GRE?

 

We do not encourage applicants to retake individual sections of the GRE. ETS will allow you take certain sections of the GRE. However, UCSB will only accept the most current complete test date; we do not mix and match scores. In the past, only the retaken sections of the GRE have been recorded and the system will automatically give you the minimum score on those sections. It will appear to us as if you only received the minimum score possible on those sections you did not retake. UCSB will only accept a complete General Test score with all three sections completed, anything else will be considered incomplete.