PhD in Sociology | Doctorate in Sociology Programs in Colorado

Sociology PhD programs offer students the opportunity to learn advanced sociological and political concepts, while conducting research of their own. Earning a PhD in Sociology degree may also qualifiy you as a Sociologist or for careers in academia.i,ii Sociologists study and analyze human society and social behavior by examining various social, religious, political, social institutions and business organizations and processes that people form.

Overview of Sociology PhD Programs

Sociology PhD programs train students in the fundamental skills of the discipline of sociology. Students could acquire advanced knowledge of sociological theory and models. While doctorate sociology students should expect general coursework, they are often encouraged to find a specific interest within the field. Students may take additional courses in their areas of concentration, as well as use it to focus their research. Sociology specializations might include topics such as:

Social inequality
Race and gender
Political systems
Ethnography
Urban Sociology
Human Development

These are only a sample of potential sociology concentrations. Check with individual programs to learn which ones they may offer.

Sociology Doctoral Dissertations

Sociology PhDs are academic degrees with a heavy emphasis on research. As such, courses may also be devoted to developing research skills and the ability to analyze data.PhD sociology programs are often focused around a doctoral dissertation, where students seek to make a significant and original contribution to the field. Typically, Sociology PhD students must present and defend their dissertation before graduation, as well as complete written and oral exams. Programs vary.

Applying to Sociology PhD Programs

The typical requirements for admission to a Sociology PhD program include a Masters degree, official transcripts, GRE Scores, and a personal statement. Students may also need previous coursework in Sociology or professional experience. Schools vary so you should talk with an admission advisor at your chosen Sociology PhD programs.

FUN FACT:
Candidates with a Ph.D., strong statistical and research skills, and a background in applied sociology will have the best job prospects as Sociologistsⁱⁱ

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Sociology Doctorate?

Earning a Sociology Doctorate degree may take anywhere from 3-7 years. The amount of time depends on program requirements, enrollment and how long it takes a student to complete a dissertation.

PhD Sociology Coursework

Since Sociology Ph.D. programs focus on a doctoral dissertation, research and analysis of a specific issue may take up a large portion of the academic credits. However, Sociology Doctorate programs also seek to provide students with a strong background in general sociological models and theories. Common courses might include:

Advanced sociological research methods
Ethnographic approaches to studies
Sociological theory of race and gender
Urban sociology
Globalization and political science

Students may also take additional courses in their area of specialization to advance their knowledge and inform their doctoral research. Course lists vary. Contact individual Sociology PhD programs for details.

Choosing A Sociology Doctorate Program: On-Campus or Online?

Students can choose to pursue a doctorate in person or choose an online Sociology Doctorate program. Online programs offer additional flexibility and convenience, with coursework available anywhere there is internet.

However, many Sociology PhD programs involve human research and are designed around a lot of interaction with professors and academic colleagues. For this reason, PhD Sociology schools may be preferable.

Whatever learning format you decide on, use the settings on GradSchools.com to review program choices, and conveniently, request more information from the school itself. For instance, a location search will yield results by city, state, or country according to your preference. Some options to browse might include Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) –Social Impact Management, PhD in Human Development, or Sociology Doctorate.

Explore a Potential Career as a Sociologist

Many graduates from Sociology PhD programs may pursue careers as a sociologists. Sociologists typically need a master’s degree or Ph.D to practice. However, sociologists with a Ph.D. have the greatest advancement and career opportunities, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Other Job Titles For Sociologists might include:

Behavioral Scientist
Criminologist
Policy Analyst
Research Scientist

However, Ph.D. holders can expect to face strong competition for sociologist positions because sociology is a popular field of study with a relatively small number of positions.ⁱⁱFor this reason, graduates of Sociology PhD programs may also consider advanced teaching positions and research opportunities with colleges, universities, sociological organizations and federal agencies. While employment of sociologists is projected to show little or no change from 2016 to 2026, Postsecondary Sociology Teachers are expected to see a 10% growth.ⁱThis could be a great next step after earning your Sociology PhD degree.

Search for Sociology PhD Programs

Review Sociology PhD Programs below or use the menu to sort by location and format. When you’re ready, click on any of the Sociology Doctorate programs to read to learn more. Then use the on page form to contact the school right away!

Sources: bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm | bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/sociologists.htm | onetonline.org/link/summary/19-3041.00