Sociology, PhD
Graduate work at the University of Pennsylvania is conducted through graduate groups formed according to different areas of study. These groups administer programs leading to the AM and PhD degrees. Those seeking a graduate degree in Sociology should apply to the Graduate Group in Sociology. Sociology students earn their MA on the way to the PhD. There is no terminal Master's degree program.
It is possible to earn a joint Ph.D. in Sociology and another discipline by being admitted to and satisfying the requirements of two Ph.D. programs and writing a single dissertation. Currently, students are enrolled in joint degrees with Demography, Education, Communications, and Africana Studies. Students seeking a joint Ph.D. combining Sociology with another program must be admitted in that program (as well as Sociology); admittance to the second program may occur after admission to the Sociology program.
For more information: http://sociology.sas.upenn.edu/graduate_resources
View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
Required Courses
A minimum of 20 course units are required. A minimum of 12 course units must be taken at the University of Pennsylvania.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Methods I | ||
| Quantitative Methods II | ||
| Pro-Seminar in Sociological Research | ||
| Proseminar in Classical Sociology | ||
| Methodology of Social Research | ||
| Second Year Research Seminar I | ||
| Second Year Research Seminar II | ||
| Select four electives 1 | ||
- 1
Three electives must be in Sociology.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2022 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
Sample Plan of Study
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | ||
| Pro-Seminar in Sociological Research | ||
| Quantitative Methods I and Quantitative Methods II | ||
| Proseminar in Classical Sociology | ||
| Methodology of Social Research | ||
Select two Sociology courses | ||
| Year 2 | ||
| Second Year Research Seminar I | ||
| Second Year Research Seminar II | ||
Select four electives | ||
Second Year Paper/MA Thesis | ||
Teaching Assistantship | ||
| Year 3 | ||
Select electives | ||
Paper Submission | ||
Specialty Area #1 Comprehensive Exam | ||
Dissertation Committee Selected | ||
Teaching Assistantship | ||
| Year 4 | ||
Specialty Area #2 Comprehensive Exam | ||
Dissertation Proposal | ||
| Year 5 and Beyond | ||
Dissertation Research and Defense | ||