What will I learn?
The PhD is the highest degree conferred by the university and is distinguished by its emphasis on creative scholarship representing original research. Our PhD in sociology prepares students for research and teaching careers in colleges and universities, as well as research and policy positions in a wide variety of applied settings. Our doctoral students develop expertise in social systems and dynamics and quantitative and qualitative research skills. The core course sequence for PhD students provides a strong foundation in sociological theory, research, and analysis, while elective courses and faculty mentoring help develop students’ expertise in their chosen areas of sociological interest. Doctoral students pursue specialization within one of two broad focal areas-Social Inequalities (including race/ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and class) and Social Institutions (including politics, education, family, crime, work, organizations, health, science, and culture.) The Department works with students to develop advanced skills in both research and teaching.
Which department am I in?
College of Letters and Science
Entry requirements
For international students
An applicant must meet the UWM Graduate Schools requirements for admission to the PhD program in Sociology. In addition, applicants to the PhD program must:
Possess a masters degree in Sociology or be in the process of completing a masters degree at the time of application, with the expectation of completion of the degree prior to beginning the PhD program.
Students without a masters degree in sociology are eligible for admission to the PhD program if:
they have a bachelors degree in sociology or a related field and they show exceptional preparation for graduate school or
they have a masters degree in a closely related field.
In addition to the requirements for the PhD, all students must:
complete the required courses for the masters degree in sociology or comparable courses from other institutions and
earn or transfer 24 credits in graduate-level work in sociology or a closely related field. If fewer than 24 credits are ruled acceptable for the doctoral program, the student will have to make up those credits.
Submit a copy of the applicants MA thesis or paper, or, if an applicant did not complete a thesis, a scholarly writing sample of original sociological research.
Provide three letters of recommendation from persons, preferably faculty, familiar with the applicants scholastic achievement and potential.
Submit a reasons statement (statement of purpose) that explains your reasons for pursuing graduate study, describes your specific interests and background in the field, and lists any relevant skills, training, and academic awards or honors.
