Sociology - 5-Year Bachelor of Science and Master of Public Service Administration

The Department of Sociology and the Bush School of Government and Public Service offer a 5-year (3+2) combined degree program that allows Sociology majors to enter the Bush School at the start of their senior year (typically year four) at Texas A&M University. This enables students to receive their Sociology undergraduate degree (BS) and a Master of Public Service and Administration (MPSA) graduate degree in five years. 

To be considered for the 5-year combined degree program, Sociology students must have a minimum 3.25 GPA and have completed 102 of the 120 hours of course work required to receive a bachelor’s degree. These courses must include all of the specific prerequisites for a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology, as well as the courses required by the College of Liberal Arts and by Texas A&M University for an undergraduate degree. Interested students are encouraged to contact an academic advisor for more information.

A Bachelor of Science in Sociology provides a solid foundation in the knowledge and skills needed to address real-world social issues and problems, while allowing students to explore a wide range of social topics and issues. Some courses include hands-on service-learning opportunities in which students connect service and/or research in the community with course material. For sociology majors seeking to enter applied fields, we have a highly praised internship program that offers practical experience in community nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and businesses. To further complement our courses, students accepted into our honors program have opportunities to work one-on-one with professors engaged in sociological research.

The Master of Public Service and Administration (MPSA) program develops principled leaders for the public and nonprofit sectors, providing students the tools and knowledge they will need in order to perform effectively and ethically in a time when public servants face new and increased challenges. The MPSA program is fully accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. The curriculum provides students with general knowledge and analytical skills in management, leadership, policy analysis, and research methods.

MPSA students have ample opportunities to engage in public service and to develop leadership skills both inside and outside the classroom through interaction with high-level public leaders, real-world consulting projects, student organizations, and the School's Public Service Leadership Program. MPSA graduates leave the Bush School ready to make a difference, whether they choose to work in government, non-profit organizations, or the private sector.