Sociology (PhD)

A graduate of our Ph.D. in the Sociology program will be able to:

Articulate and possess a critical analysis of the central theories, perspectives, principles, and concepts of the discipline.

Demonstrate a mastery of multiple methodologies to conduct research on complex questions and social problems.

Demonstrate a capacity to communicate research findings to academic, policy, and lay audiences.

Conduct independent and collaborative research that is publishable in the sociological discipline’s core peer-reviewed journals and/or as an academic book.

Establish competency in teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels and a commitment to advancing pedagogical knowledge within one’s own teaching.

Incorporate ethical principles and practices into their research and teaching.

Recognize the cultural basis of sociology and acknowledge their own standpoint, with respect for the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Employ social science research strategies to resolve challenges and empower people, and advocate for social justice and equity.

Appreciate the landscape and professional norms of pursuing an academic, government, or non-profit sector career in the sociology discipline.

Program Policy Document:

Please see the Program Policy Document for more information.

Requirements For The Degrees

Requirements:

All new students are required to take a non-credit one-hour pro-seminar.

Ph.D. Requirements

Students are encouraged to: take a broad array of courses, go beyond these minimum course requirements in order to pursue additional learning opportunities, and consider courses outside the department.

Core Requirements:

SOCI 605 - Data Collection and Analysis Credit(s): 3
SOCI 606 - Qualitative Methodology Credit(s): 3
SOCI 612 - Development of Sociological Theory Credit(s): 3
SOCI 614 - Advanced Data Analysis Credit(s): 3
SOCI 698 - Teaching in the Social Sciences Credit(s): 1
SOCI 813 - Current Issues in Social Theory Credit(s): 3

One of the following:

SOCI 625 - Advanced Social Statistics Credit(s): 3
SOCI 676 - Advanced Qualitative Methods Credit(s): 3
PSYC 878 - Hierarchical Linear Modeling Credit(s): 3
Another course approved by the department methods comprehensive exam committee.

Elective Courses:

Students must take at least six elective courses. At least two of these courses must be in a substantive area to assure breadth in sociology. Substantive areas include: Race, Gender, Disasters and the Environment, Criminology, Law and Society, Health, Methods, and Theory.
- We encourage students to pursue courses outside of the department. However, no more than two of the elective courses outside of the department will count towards degree.
Independent studies do not count as elective courses.

Comprehensive Exam in one area and Qualifying Paper in one area

SOCI 969 - Doctoral Dissertation Credit(s): 1-12 (9 credits)