PhD in Sociology

Program Overview

The PhD program in Sociology combines coursework and a thesis component. Students complete 18 credit hours of coursework, including theory, research methods, and comprehensive exams. The thesis component involves preparing and defending a thesis proposal and a completed thesis. The program offers an informal learning environment with a low student-to-faculty ratio and faculty actively involved in research.

Program Outline

Outline:

The PhD program in Sociology consists of a combination of coursework and a thesis component. Coursework: Students must complete a minimum of 18 credit hours of coursework, including:

• 3 credit hours in theory
• 6 credit hours in research methods
• Two comprehensive examinations
Thesis:
• Preparation and successful defense of the thesis proposal
• Preparation and successful defense of the completed thesis

Teaching:

• The low graduate student/faculty ratio creates an informal learning environment in which students receive considerable individual attention.
• Faculty members are actively involved in research, including many projects that readily lend themselves as the basis for student theses and dissertations.