Pursue doctoral research in Sociology at the University of Aberdeen, a leading UK centre for sociological study. This program equips you with advanced social research skills and transferable expertise. You will join a vibrant academic community, benefiting from dedicated office space, computing facilities, and extensive library resources. The program can be undertaken full-time or part-time, with the possibility of distance study depending on your research project. Admission to the PhD typically requires prior methods training at the postgraduate level. For those needing this foundation, the department offers a one-year full-time or two-year part-time MRes in Social Science, which can also be taken as a standalone degree. The MRes and PhD together form an ESRC-recognised 1+3 postgraduate research program. Applicants are strongly advised to contact potential supervisors before submitting their application.
A postgraduate degree in Sociology from Aberdeen provides a strong foundation for a variety of academic and professional careers. Graduates develop into well-rounded social scientists with expertise in their research areas.
Applicants are strongly advised to contact potential supervisors before applying. The department will consider applicants if their research topic aligns with staff expertise. The ESRC has its own specific entry requirements.
Tuition fees and living cost estimates should be confirmed on the University's official pages.
ESRC-recognised 1+3 postgraduate research programme (MRes + PhD).
Applicants normally need an upper second-class honours degree or equivalent in Sociology or a related subject, along with significant postgraduate-level research training, such as the MRes in Social Research. A detailed research proposal and two academic references are also required.
Yes, significant research training at the postgraduate level is required. The department offers a one-year full-time or two-year part-time MRes in Social Science for those needing this foundation, which, combined with the PhD, forms an ESRC-recognised 1+3 program.
International applicants should first contact potential supervisors. Then, prepare academic transcripts, a detailed research proposal, and two academic references, and submit them through the University's online application portal. Review country-specific details and information on fees and living costs.
The Aberdeen Global Scholarship is available for eligible self-funded international postgraduate research masters' students, who automatically receive this scholarship. Details on the specific amount are available on the University's website.
A Sociology PhD from Aberdeen provides a strong foundation for academic and professional careers. Graduates often become Government Officers, Lecturers, Policy Advisors, Research Analysts, Social Researchers, and Non-Governmental Organisation Officers.