Program Overview

Sociology Ph.D.

Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Sociology at the University of North Texas prepares students to be independent researchers or instructors in higher education. The program focuses on applying social science perspectives and tools to problems and improving quality of life.

Program Details

• Program Type: Doctoral Degree
• Format: On Campus
• Estimated Time to Complete: 2-4 years
• Credit Hours: 42 (with master's) or 72 (with bachelor's)

Objectives

The objective of the Sociology program is to produce intellectually well-rounded graduates capable of functioning effectively in either an academic or a sociological practice setting, analyzing social groups and relationships between groups, and evaluating the influence of social and cultural factors on important social outcomes.

Research Areas

• Comparative and global sociology
• Demography
• Development and social change
• Environmental sociology
• Marriage and family
• Religion
• Health, illness and aging
• Race and ethnicity
• Social inequality and stratification
• Social media
• Sustainable societies
• Work and organizations

Marketable Skills

• Advanced oral and written communication
• Advanced quantitative/qualitative research design
• Advanced statistical analysis/interpretation
• Advanced analytical reasoning
• Conducting advanced research literature reviews

Program Highlights

• Concentrate studies in comparative and global sociology, social stratification, or health, illness and aging
• Flexible scheduling with classes available in the late afternoon or evening
• Opportunities to present work at national and regional conferences
• Ranked 3rd in Texas, 13th in the South, and 49th in the nation

Faculty Expertise

Faculty members have published books, articles, and research reports; presented research at national conferences; and received research grants from the National Science Foundation, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Commonwealth Fund.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers in higher education, marketing, social services, government, data science, healthcare, and many other fields.

Sample Courses

• Research Methods and Design (3 hrs)
• Introduction to Social Statistics (3 hrs)
• Seminar on Race and Ethnicity (3 hrs)
• Criminological Theory (3 hrs)
• Sociology of Education (3 hrs)
• Sociological Theory (3 hrs)