2018-2019 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2018-2019 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Sociology (Ph.D.)


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Program Coordinator/Contact

Mary Emery, Department Head
Meredith Redlin, Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Sociology and Rural Studies
Hansen Hall 004
605-688-4132

Program Information

The Ph.D. program in Sociology is designed to prepare students for professional careers in teaching, research and creative activity, and applied or practice-related sociology in academic, government and industry setting 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 501  and SOC 504  in their first year of coursework. A student guide to the program is located on the department website.

Course Delivery Format

Courses are generally delivered face-to-face in small seminar settings. A limited number of courses may be offered via DDN or on-line.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees


Doctor of Philosophy 60 Credit Plan

Social Science Statistics Coursework


Select six credits from the following. Credits: 6

Additional Admission Requirements


GRE: Required
TOEFL: Required score of 575 paper-based, 90 Internet-based
IELTS:  6.5

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 required 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


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

For additional information refer to the Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements .

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