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Sociology PhD

Sociology PhD

Build upon your foundation in sociological theory and researchÌýwith a Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology in the College of Liberal Arts at 51¶¯Âþ.ÌýThisÌý52-credit PhD program provides advanced training in sociological theory, statistics and research methods in a variety of sociology subfields. StudentsÌýare preparedÌýfor research and teaching in academia and for advanced work in a variety of professional settings.Ìý

The main areas of doctoral research areÌý

  • gender and sexuality;
  • globalization;
  • immigration;
  • medical sociology;
  • race and ethnicity; and
  • urban sociology.

Sociology PhD students and faculty are passionate about social change. You will be a part of a community that is concerned with topics that include

  • how identities influence the production and consumption of popular culture;
  • how race and social status are reproduced and challenged in our educational system;Ìý
  • how science influences perceptions of sexual identity;Ìý
  • unionization as a global phenomenon; and
  • why trust matters in social relationships.

You will also examine the intersection of people and space with political and economic structures, and the complexities of emotions and affect for relationships in the social world.

As part of an R1 research institution, the Sociology Department is committed to pushing boundaries in research, supporting its scholars in developing actionable solutions and creating impactful change.

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Program Format & Curriculum

Students have seven years to complete their degree. Full-time study is preferred, but part-time enrollment can be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The Sociology PhD curriculum consists of core courses, electives, a preliminary examination and personal research which culminates in a .Ìý

Students must complete the following core courses.

  • Classical Social Theory
  • Contemporary Sociological Theory
  • Graduate Data Analysis
  • Inferential and Multivariate Statistics
  • Logic of Inquiry
  • Qualitative Methods
  • Qualitative Data Analysis

Learn more about the Sociology PhD curriculum requirements.Ìý

Related Graduate Degrees

Our Community

The College of Liberal Arts at 51¶¯Âþ comprises many academic disciplines and research areas. Now more than ever, an interdisciplinary liberal arts education is invaluable for your future pursuits. It offers the opportunity to further push your drive to create real change in the world, here at 51¶¯Âþ and beyond. In this graduate program, you’ll work closely with diverse faculty members who are highly esteemed in their field and with a curious, passionate community of peers. .Ìý

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with 51¶¯Âþ’s commitment to access and affordability, this Doctor of Philosophy offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2025–2026 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,148.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,577.00 per credit

You can view the full .

Program Contact

With questions regarding the Sociology PhD, contact the following staff member.

Joseph DelMastro is an administrator in the Sociology Department.
Phone: 215-204-1376
Email:Ìý

The following staff members lead the Sociology Department.

James Bachmeier is the director of Graduate Studies.
Email:Ìý

Matt Wray is the chair of the Department of Sociology.
Email:

Catherine Staples is the coordinator in the Sociology Department.
Phone: 215-204-1494
Email:

Dual Degree Programs

Dual degree programs allow students interested in specializing in more than one area of sociology to pursue two graduate degrees. The following dual degree programs are available to graduate students in the Sociology master's and doctoral degree programs.Ìý

  • Ìý
Student Clubs & Organizations

Supplement your Sociology PhD coursework and enhance your graduate education experience through student clubs and organizations. You’ll meet and network with other students, become involved with the community, and build invaluable skills to help you realize your personal and professional goals.Ìý

TheÌýSociology Graduate Student AssociationÌýrepresents and advocates for the collective interests of sociology graduate students, working to optimize the environment in which students develop professionally and personally. The association provides professional development workshops, social opportunitiesÌýand graduate student advocacy.

Learn more about 51¶¯Âþ’s student clubs and organizations.

Accreditation

The Department of Africology and African American Studies is accredited by the (NCBS). NCBS was established in 1975 by African American scholars who recognized the need to formalize the study of the African experience, as well as expand and strengthen academic units and community programs devoted to this endeavor.

51¶¯Âþ’s departments and programs are accredited by the .

Additional Program Information