At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
€1k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The University of Geneva offers a PhD in Sociology for individuals seeking advanced academic training beyond a Master's degree or Postgraduate Diploma. This program is administered by the Institute of Sociological Research within the Geneva School of Social Sciences (G3S). The program focuses on specialized areas and research fields within sociology, allowing students to pursue in-depth academic work under faculty supervision.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Sociology?
- You need a Master's degree from a university and program recognized by the University of Geneva, or an equivalent qualification. No specific French language exam is required for registration, but it's recommended to check with the faculty.
- How much does the PhD in Sociology cost?
- Tuition fees are CHF 500 per semester, which includes CHF 65 in fixed fees and CHF 435 in administrative fees. Fees are payable in a single installment per semester.
- How do I apply for the PhD in Sociology?
- You need to explore research areas, contact a potential supervisor with your research ideas, and obtain their agreement. Then, submit a formal application and thesis proposal to the G3S, following their detailed guidelines.
- When is the deadline for applying and submitting the thesis proposal?
- Doctoral enrollment is possible year-round with autumn or spring start dates; contact the faculty for specific deadlines. Your thesis proposal must be submitted within two semesters of admission confirmation.
- What documents are needed for the PhD in Sociology application?
- Required documents include a research proposal (3-5 pages PDF), a cover letter, a signed thesis proposal form, your CV, academic transcripts, and copies of diplomas.
Entry requirements
Master's degreeA Master's degree from a university and a program recognised by the University of Geneva, or a qualification deemed equivalent.
No specific French language exam is required for registration by the Admissions Service. However, it is recommended to check the specific requirements with the faculty/institute/centre.
Fees
Tuition (international)CHF 500 per semester (CHF 65 fixed fees, CHF 435 administrative fees).
Tuition (home)CHF 500 per semester (CHF 65 fixed fees, CHF 435 administrative fees).
Living—
Fees are payable in a single installment per semester. Reductions based on status may be automatically applied. Requests for fee relief due to financial difficulties should be submitted to the Service social et finances.
How to apply
1. Explore Research AreasVisit the Sociology Department website and review the 'Qui sommes-nous ?' section to understand specialization areas and faculty research interests.
2. Contact Potential SupervisorDirectly contact a professor whose research aligns with your interests. Submit your research ideas, tentative title, and a 1-2 page explanation of your research purpose.
3. Obtain Supervisor AgreementOnce a supervisor agrees to work with you, proceed with the scientific and administrative application required by the G3S. This includes writing a cover letter detailing your thesis project.
4. Consult Regulations and GuidelinesRefer to the G3S website for detailed application information, PhD program regulations, and guidelines. Follow all steps precisely.
5. Submit Application to G3SComplete and submit the scientific and administrative application to the G3S. Do not contact the Scientific Committee for the PhD in Sociology directly; contact the Academic Advisor if needed.
6. Register for Doctoral ProgramAfter admission confirmation, register for the Doctoral Program in Sociology (PDRS) via mycuso.
7. Submit Thesis ProposalSubmit your thesis proposal within the specified deadline (two semesters) using the electronic form. This requires a 3-5 page PDF detailing the thesis subject, methodology, and bibliography.
8. Obtain SignaturesPrint the proposal form, get it signed by your thesis supervisor and the director of the Scientific Committee for PhDs in Sociology.
9. Forward Signed DocumentSend the signed document to the Academic Advisor for forwarding to the College of Professors for approval.
10. Indicate Thesis CommitteeProvide details of the thesis committee, including supervisor, co-director (if applicable), and jury chairman. Potential external members can be listed, though not necessarily final.
11. Annual Progress ReportSubmit an annual report on your thesis progress to your supervisor by December 15th each year. Instructions for preparation are available.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Sociology?
+
You need a Master's degree from a university and program recognized by the University of Geneva, or an equivalent qualification. No specific French language exam is required for registration, but it's recommended to check with the faculty.
How much does the PhD in Sociology cost?
+
Tuition fees are CHF 500 per semester, which includes CHF 65 in fixed fees and CHF 435 in administrative fees. Fees are payable in a single installment per semester.
How do I apply for the PhD in Sociology?
+
You need to explore research areas, contact a potential supervisor with your research ideas, and obtain their agreement. Then, submit a formal application and thesis proposal to the G3S, following their detailed guidelines.
When is the deadline for applying and submitting the thesis proposal?
+
Doctoral enrollment is possible year-round with autumn or spring start dates; contact the faculty for specific deadlines. Your thesis proposal must be submitted within two semesters of admission confirmation.
What documents are needed for the PhD in Sociology application?
+
Required documents include a research proposal (3-5 pages PDF), a cover letter, a signed thesis proposal form, your CV, academic transcripts, and copies of diplomas.