CORNELL UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Sociology
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Comprehensive coursework in core sociology areas and research methods.Curriculum
- Two areas of concentration chosen from major and minor fields.Specialization
- Rigorous A Exam for admission to candidacy, including written components and qualifying paper defense.Academic Milestones
- Dissertation proposal defense and final dissertation defense (B Exam).Research Progression
- Option to complete a Master's thesis.Thesis Option
Cornell University's Ph.D. program in Sociology is designed for students seeking advanced research training and a career in academia or research. The program focuses on developing deep theoretical knowledge and rigorous methodological skills. Admission to the Ph.D. program is highly competitive and applications are not accepted every year. The program structure involves coursework, comprehensive examinations, and the completion of a dissertation. Key milestones include completing core coursework and proseminars, forming a special committee, passing the A Exam for admission to candidacy, defending a dissertation proposal, and finally, the B Exam, which is the dissertation defense. Students have the option to complete a Master's thesis as part of their Ph.D. program or as a terminal degree.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of seven graduate-level courses, including core seminars in sociology, statistics, and research methods. Students are encouraged to take additional methods courses and substantive seminars based on their research interests. The Special Committee may also recommend specific courses.
- Years 1-2 (Semesters 1-4)
- Basic Problems in Sociology ISoc 5010
- Basic Problems in Sociology IISoc 5020
- Statistics for Sociological ResearchSoc 6010
- Intermediate Statistics for Sociological ResearchSoc 6020
- Proseminar in SociologySoc 6080
- Logics and Methods of Sociological ResearchSoc 6130
- Graduate-level substantive seminar
Careers
Graduates of the Ph.D. program are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, government, and the non-profit sector. The program equips students with advanced analytical and research skills applicable to a wide range of professional roles.
- University Professor
- Researcher
- Data Analyst
- Policy Analyst
- Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- When can I apply for the Ph.D. in Sociology program?
- Applications for the Ph.D. in Sociology program are not accepted every year. The program plans to reopen for Fall 2027 admission in September 2026.
- What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
- For applicants to the Ph.D. program, the minimum IELTS score is 7.5, TOEFL (prior to Jan 2026) is 100, TOEFL (Jan 2026 onwards) is 5.0 (minimum) or 5.5 (recommended), Duolingo is 130, and Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency is 191.
- What are the potential career outcomes after completing this Ph.D. program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, government, and the non-profit sector, often taking on roles such as University Professor, Researcher, Data Analyst, or Policy Analyst.
- What is the typical duration and structure of the Ph.D. program?
- The Ph.D. program involves coursework, comprehensive examinations, and the completion of a dissertation. Key academic milestones include passing the A Exam for candidacy and the B Exam for dissertation defense.
- Is tuition and living cost information available for this program?
- Tuition and living cost information is not provided on the program or university pages for this specific graduate program.
Entry requirements
Previous Graduate StudySuccessful completion of coursework and milestones as outlined in the program sequence.
IELTS7.5
TOEFL (prior to Jan 2026)100
TOEFL (Jan 2026 onwards)5.0 (minimum), 5.5 (recommended)
Duolingo130
Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency191
Native English speakers, U.S. Citizens/Permanent Residents, or students whose primary language of instruction throughout secondary school was English are exempt from submitting English proficiency scores. Applicants are urged to check the program's application status as applications are not accepted every year. The next application cycle for Fall 2027 admission is planned to open in September 2026.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingNot specified
Tuition and living cost information is not provided on the program or university pages for this specific graduate program.
How to apply
1. Check Application AvailabilityVerify that applications are being accepted for the desired intake year. Applications for Fall 2027 admission are expected to open in September 2026.
2. Create Application AccountThe Common Application typically opens in August. Create an account to begin the application process.
3. Complete Application FormsFill out the Common Application and the Cornell Writing Supplement accurately and completely.
4. Submit Application FeePay the $85 application fee or submit a request for a fee waiver.
5. Provide English Proficiency ScoresSubmit official scores from an accepted English proficiency test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) if required. Self-reported scores are accepted initially.
6. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other required academic documents. For this program, specific portfolios or design supplements are not mentioned.
7. Apply for Financial Aid (If Applicable)International applicants seeking financial aid must complete and submit the CSS Profile by the specified deadline. Cornell's admissions for international students are need-aware.
8. Monitor Application StatusCheck your applicant portal for updates and to ensure all required materials have been received.
Accreditation
Not specified
Frequently asked questions
When can I apply for the Ph.D. in Sociology program?
+
Applications for the Ph.D. in Sociology program are not accepted every year. The program plans to reopen for Fall 2027 admission in September 2026.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
+
For applicants to the Ph.D. program, the minimum IELTS score is 7.5, TOEFL (prior to Jan 2026) is 100, TOEFL (Jan 2026 onwards) is 5.0 (minimum) or 5.5 (recommended), Duolingo is 130, and Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency is 191.
What are the potential career outcomes after completing this Ph.D. program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, government, and the non-profit sector, often taking on roles such as University Professor, Researcher, Data Analyst, or Policy Analyst.
What is the typical duration and structure of the Ph.D. program?
+
The Ph.D. program involves coursework, comprehensive examinations, and the completion of a dissertation. Key academic milestones include passing the A Exam for candidacy and the B Exam for dissertation defense.
Is tuition and living cost information available for this program?
+
Tuition and living cost information is not provided on the program or university pages for this specific graduate program.