Advisor: Patrick Cundiff
Room 3230, Sangren Hall

The principal aim of the doctoral program in sociology is to develop an advanced understanding of the significant features and processes of human society through a focus on both research and teaching. The program prepares informed scholars and competent professionals for careers in research, education, government, and private enterprise. The department’s core program of study stresses both theory and methods while elective credits, cognate courses in another department, comprehensive examinations in two areas of concentrations, and the dissertation project develop substantial knowledge in areas of specialization.

Admission Requirements

1. Master’s degree in sociology or a closely related field (applicants with degrees in fields other than sociology may be required to make up deficiencies as a condition of admission).
2. Grade point average of 3.25 in all graduate work. Grade point average of 3.0 or better in undergraduate sociology courses.
3. Applicants must supply a biographical statement, sample of original academic writing, official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools attended, TOEFL scores (international applicants only), and three letters of recommendation from academic and/or professional sources to the Central Graduate Committee, Department of Sociology. Additional information and application forms may be obtained from the department.

Financial Assistance

A number of departmental, University, and governmental assistantships, fellowships, and associateships are available to qualified students. Educational opportunities and part-time employment may be available through the facilities of the Leonard C. Kercher Center for Social Research. Research through the Kercher Center includes studies of education, mental illness, marital roles, race relations, group dynamics, deviant behavior, comparative institutions, and numerous other topics. Graduate students frequently participate in these studies.