Sociology, PhD

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Sociology, PhD

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Student Handbook

The doctorate degree program in sociology is designed to provide students with grounding in core sociological theories and methods and engages students in ongoing research projects by individual ASU faculty, research teams, and research institutes and centers across all ASU campuses.

5 years to degree
8 core faculty members
50+ Sociologists at ASU

How to apply

The Sanford School application process is completed online through ASU Graduate Education. Prospective students must submit the admission application form along with the fee and official transcripts. For the department's doctoral programs, students must submit supplemental application materials. View how to apply for more details.

Curriculum

The coursework requirements for the PhD Program in Sociology consist of 54 credit hours.

A minimum of 54 hours is required.

Requirements and ElectivesHours
Total54

Courses and electives

Students may choose from a wide range of substantive and methodological elective courses offered in the T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics or other graduate training programs at ASU.

Graduate students may concentrate their studies in one of the four primary areas of specializations, or may choose another area to meet their specific research interests.

Please see the Graduate Handbook for more information.

  • Perspectives in Sociological Inquiry (SOC603, catalog description to be updated, 3 credits)
  • Applied Social Theory (SOC685, title and catalog description to be updated, or approved equivalent, 3 credits)
  • Integrative Research Seminar (SOC691, title and catalog description to be updated, 3 credits)
  • Research Residency (SOC 792, 6-18 credits) (please follow the link to the left for more information on Research Residency)
  • Advanced Methods and Statistics Classes (9-18 credits; courses should represent at least two distinct analytic approaches)
  • Substantive Course(s) in the student's focal area (6-12 credits)
  • Dissertation Hours (SOC799, 12 credits)

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