PhD Sociology at Stony Brook University

Programme overview

The PhD in Sociology at Stony Brook provides graduate training in sociology informed by a global perspective, applying sociological theory and methods to global social, cultural, political and economic processes. The programme admits two to five doctoral students per year. Most graduates move into university or college teaching or postdoctoral positions, with some entering government, business or applied research.

Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Department of Sociology | Duration: Typically 5-6 years full-time | Study mode: full-time | Location: Stony Brook, NY, United States

What you will study

Seven designated courses: two in sociological theory (SOC 505, 506), three in statistics and methods (SOC 501, 502, 504), one in global sociology (SOC 512) and one further methods course, plus eight electives. Progress is assessed through two professional competence papers, a teaching practicum, an oral preliminary examination, a dissertation proposal and a dissertation defence.

Career pathways

University and college teaching, postdoctoral research, government service, business and applied research.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants apply directly to the PhD (a master's degree is not required). Normally required in addition to Graduate School minimums: a bachelor's degree or equivalent; an undergraduate statistics course; an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above; three strong recommendations from former instructors; for applicants whose native or primary language is not English, TOEFL or IELTS (not required for degrees from institutions where English was the primary language of instruction); acceptance by both the Department and the Graduate School.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate School: the application fee is $100 (limited exceptions). Deadlines vary by program; for fall applications considered for funding the deadline is typically January 15.

Apply through the official page: https://www.stonybrook.edu/grad/admissions/apply-graduate-programs.html

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