UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER · UNITED STATES
Sociology - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
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Language
PhD
Level
- 45Credit hours of coursework required
- 24Minimum credit hours required in the Sociology Department
- 3.50Minimum GPA required in first-year coursework
- 6Program years for dissertation completion
The Sociology PhD program at the University of Colorado Boulder provides comprehensive training in sociological theories and research methods. Students gain flexibility to explore diverse specialty areas under the guidance of award-winning faculty recognized for their research, teaching, and service. The department is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse student body, believing that a variety of perspectives enhances the educational experience and strengthens research endeavors. This commitment aims to promote inclusive excellence and enrich the field of sociology through a wider range of backgrounds and experiences among its professionals.
Curriculum
The program requires 45 credit hours of coursework, with at least 24 hours taken within the Sociology Department at CU Boulder. All departmental courses must be numbered 5000 or above to count for graduate credit. First-year students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.50 with no grades lower than a B. Progress is reviewed annually by faculty members. Students typically focus on required theory and methods courses in the first two years, followed by developing a specialty area in years three and four, culminating in dissertation research.
- Year 1
- Research DesignSOCY 5031
- Statistics 1: Introduction to Social StatisticsSOCY 5111
- Logics of Qualitative InquirySOCY 5181
- Graduate Seminar in Sociological TheorySOCY 5201
- Graduate Seminar in Contemporary TheorySOCY 5202
- Stats 2: Statistic AnalysisSOCY 6111
- Graduate Sociology Forum 1SOCY 6821
- A second theory seminar of the student's choice
- Graduate Sociology Forum 2SOCY 6821
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements for the Sociology PhD program?
- The program requires 45 credit hours of coursework, with at least 24 hours taken within the Sociology Department at CU Boulder. All departmental courses must be numbered 5000 or above to count for graduate credit. First-year students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.50 with no grades lower than a B.
- How long does the Sociology PhD program typically take to complete?
- Students typically focus on required theory and methods courses in the first two years, followed by developing a specialty area in years three and four, culminating in dissertation research. Students must complete dissertation research by the end of their sixth program year.
- Can I pursue a Master's degree en route to the PhD?
- Yes, PhD students may pursue an MA en route with committee approval, provided they meet the MA requirements. No extra time is granted for MA completion while pursuing the PhD.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Sociology PhD?
- Graduates will possess advanced knowledge and skills applicable to various careers within and beyond academia, including roles requiring in-depth sociological understanding and analytical capabilities.
- Where can I find information about tuition, fees, and living costs?
- Specific tuition and living cost details for international students are not provided. It is recommended to consult the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School for the most current financial information.
- How do I apply to the Sociology PhD program?
- Information regarding the specific application process, required documents, and deadlines is not detailed on the program page. Prospective students should visit the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School admissions section for general application procedures.
Entry requirements
Graduate CourseworkCompletion of 45 credit hours of coursework, with at least 24 hours in the Department of Sociology (courses numbered 5000 or above).
First-Year GPAMaintain at least a 3.50 GPA with no grade lower than a B in all first-year coursework.
The department does not offer a Master's degree program, but PhD students may pursue an MA en route with committee approval, provided they meet MA requirements (30 credit hours, specific seminars, thesis). No extra time is granted for MA completion while pursuing the PhD. Students must defend a written dissertation proposal and complete dissertation research by the end of their sixth program year.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Specific tuition and living cost details for international students are not provided in the program documentation. It is recommended to consult the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School for the most current financial information.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements for the Sociology PhD program?
+
The program requires 45 credit hours of coursework, with at least 24 hours taken within the Sociology Department at CU Boulder. All departmental courses must be numbered 5000 or above to count for graduate credit. First-year students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.50 with no grades lower than a B.
How long does the Sociology PhD program typically take to complete?
+
Students typically focus on required theory and methods courses in the first two years, followed by developing a specialty area in years three and four, culminating in dissertation research. Students must complete dissertation research by the end of their sixth program year.
Can I pursue a Master's degree en route to the PhD?
+
Yes, PhD students may pursue an MA en route with committee approval, provided they meet the MA requirements. No extra time is granted for MA completion while pursuing the PhD.
What are the career prospects after completing the Sociology PhD?
+
Graduates will possess advanced knowledge and skills applicable to various careers within and beyond academia, including roles requiring in-depth sociological understanding and analytical capabilities.
Where can I find information about tuition, fees, and living costs?
+
Specific tuition and living cost details for international students are not provided. It is recommended to consult the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School for the most current financial information.
How do I apply to the Sociology PhD program?
+
Information regarding the specific application process, required documents, and deadlines is not detailed on the program page. Prospective students should visit the University of Colorado Boulder Graduate School admissions section for general application procedures.