Sociology - PhD

The PhD program in Sociology merges foundational coursework in sociological theory and research methods with focused training in selected specialty areas and apprenticeship roles in both basic and applied research projects. We place particular emphasis on three areas of specialization: Demography, Environment & Community, and Social Inequality. Sustained personal interaction between faculty and students is a hallmark and strength of the program.

PhD students are expected to concentrate in and pass a written comprehensive examination in one major specialty area. The three available specialization areas are as follows:

• Demography

This specialization explores issues of population change, migration, and health outcomes. Graduate coursework is provided in social demography, techniques of demographic analysis, population health, migration, and various special topic seminars.

• Environment & Community

This specialization focuses on the sociology of natural resources, environmental sociology, community theory, and applied community development. Faculty and students in this specialization area engage in numerous cooperative research ventures with colleagues in natural resource sciences, water engineering, and other physical and social sciences.

• Social Inequality

The area specialization in social inequality allows graduate students to explore how states, policies, organizations and labor markets come together to create differing opportunities and outcomes for diverse groups within society, as well as across societies. Department faculty conduct research on gender, racial, and class inequalities within the United States and other countries, as well as comparative, cross-national research.

Contacts

Interim director of graduate studies – Erin Hofmann https://artsci.usu.edu/social-sciences/sociology/directory/faculty-staff/erin-hofmann

Graduate program coordinator – Megan Sills https://artsci.usu.edu/social-sciences/anthropology/directory/faculty-staff/sills-megan

The PhD program in Sociology admits students in Fall semesters only, with an application deadline of December 20 of the previous year. Admission requirements include:

• Unofficial transcripts from all previous higher educational institutions attended.  A bachelor’s degree in an accredited U.S. college or university or a similarly recognized international university is required for admission to the PhD program, and a master’s degree is preferred. For admitted students, an official transcript must be provided by the end of the student’s first semester.

• A degree in sociology is not required but preference is given to students who demonstrate a background in sociology or another social science.

• Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s accomplishments and potential for success in graduate school.

• An example of the applicant’s written work.

• A statement of purpose (1-2 pages)

• A CV or resume

• GRE scores may be provided but are not required

• International students must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores as proof of English proficiency

For additional information on admissions, please visit the program website https://artsci.usu.edu/social-sciences/sociology/resources/graduate/admissions or the School of Graduate Studies https://gradschool.usu.edu/