Sociology (Ph.D.)

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Program Information
The Department of Sociology and Rural Studies offers three graduate degree opportunities. The Master of Science and PhD programs are offered on campus. The Master of Science in Sociology - Community Development Specialization is offered online.

The PhD program in Sociology is designed to prepare students for professional careers in teaching, research and creative activity in academic, government and related areas. Students are encouraged to identify areas of interest that connect with faculty areas of expertise and interest. Students seeking admission must have an approved Master’s degree, (thesis option), not necessarily in Sociology. If a thesis in a closely related field is not in evidence, Ph.D. students will be required to complete SOC 701 and SOC 702 in their first year of coursework Ph.D. program credits.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Doctor of Philosophy

60 Credit Plan

Core Requirements

SOC 709 - Evaluation Research
Credits: 3
SOC 710 - Research Methods
Credits: 3
SOC 711 - Qualitative Research Methods
Credits: 3
SOC 712 - Sociological Theory I
Credits: 3
SOC 713 - Sociological Theory II
Credits: 3
SOC 720 - Scholarship of Teaching and Learning for Sociologists
Credits: 3
SOC 790 - Seminar
Credits: 1
Statistics Coursework Credits: 6
- STAT 541 - Statistical Methods II
  Credits: 3
- STAT 545 - Nonparametric Statistics
  Credits: 3
- GEOG 785 - Quantitative Methods in Geography
  Credits: 3
- SOC 792 - Topics
  (if statistics) Credits: 3
Specialization #1 Credits: 9
Specialization #2 Credits: 8
SOC 898D - Dissertation
Credits: 18

Credits: 60

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Required
TOEFL: Department requirement of 550 paper-based, 213 computer-based, 79-80 Internet-based

Doctor of Philosophy: Students seeking entrance must have an approved Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, (thesis option), not necessarily in Sociology. Each applicant should have 2 signed letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the student’s academic record.

It is highly recommended that applicants also include a writing sample and personal statement. The personal statement should identify the student’s academic goals and describe how those goals fit with the faculty expertise and interests.

General Requirements (PhD)

Graduate students must consult with their advisor before registering for graduate work.

For additional information see Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements .