Sociology, PHD

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (6 credit hours)
SOC 603 Perspectives in Sociological Inquiry (3)
SOC 685 Applied Social Theory (3)

Theory (3 credit hours)
SOC 585 Sociological Theory (3)

Methods (3 credit hours)
SOC 591 Qualitative Research Methods (3)

Statistics (3 credit hours)

Other Requirements (3 credit hours)
SOC 791 Topic: Integrative Research (3)

Elective and Research (54 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours)
SOC 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information
When approved by the student's department and the Graduate College, 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree are allowed to be used toward this degree.

A minimum of 30 credit hours of the approved doctoral program, exclusive of dissertation and research hours, must be completed after admission to the program.

A qualifying exam, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation are required.

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in sociology or related field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

1. graduate admission application and application fee
2. official transcripts
3. current resume or curriculum vitae
4. personal statement detailing professional goals and research experiences
5. writing sample
6. three letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant's academic background
7. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

A personal statement is required. It must be three pages or less, double-spaced, and it must address the applicant's professional goals and reasons for desiring to enroll in the program; describe strengths that will help the student succeed in the program and reach professional goals; describe research experience (a description of the master's thesis should be included, if applicable) and relevant responsibilities held; indicate personal research interests as specifically as possible; and include any additional information that will help the committee evaluate the application.

Three letters of recommendation are required, including at least two from instructors at the applicant's institution where undergraduate or graduate work was completed. These letters should be from people who know the applicant as a student or in a professional capacity. Letters from family members or friends do not meet this criterion.

Students should see the program website for application deadlines.