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2009-2010 University Catalog
Sociology, PhD
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Banner Code: LA-PHD-SOCI
The doctoral degree in sociology provides rigorous training in public and applied social research, including skills in research design, data analysis, and substantive areas that are pertinent to various sectors in the Washington, D.C., area. Graduates have the theoretical, analytical, and professional skills that prepare them for academic positions in teaching or research. They are also well-qualified for nonacademic positions in the many settings that rely on the expertise of sociologists including human service agencies, marketing research firms, educational systems, nonprofit foundations, and law enforcement agencies.
This program of study is offered by the Department of Sociology and Anthropology .
For policies governing all graduate degrees, see the Academic Policies chapter of this catalog. |
Application Requirements
See the Application for Graduate Study for admission deadlines. In addition to materials required of all applicants for graduate study at Mason, applicants to the PhD in sociology should submit the following:
- A statement of purpose of academic study
- A writing sample such as a full-length research paper
- Three letters of recommendation from faculty members or those who can evaluate the applicant’s academic potential
- GRE scores (the general test is required; subject tests are optional)
Reduction of Credit
Students who enter the program with a master’s degree may be allowed a reduction of credit up to 30 credits subject to the approval of the graduate director and the dean. Degree Requirements
Students pursuing the doctorate in sociology must successfully complete a minimum 72 credits. Nine foundation courses (27 credits)
Two proseminars (6 credits):
Two courses (6 credits) of theory:
Three courses (9 credits) of methodology and analysis chosen from:
Two courses (6 credits) of statistics/methods courses chosen from:
Two additional proseminars (6 credits):
Three courses (9 credits) in a specialization
Up to two courses (6 credits) may be from courses that are not in sociology, chosen in consultation with the student’s advisor or the graduate director. Specialization in institutions and inequalities
Specialization in sociology of globalization
Five courses (15 credits) of electives
Up to two courses (6 credits) may be from courses that are not in sociology, chosen in consultation with the student’s advisor or the graduate director. 15 credits of dissertation proposal and research
Students must complete a minimum of 3 credits of 999. Research Proficiency
Students must demonstrate proficiency in a range of quantitative and qualitative research methods prior to taking the qualifying exams for candidacy. Proficiency is determined by satisfactory course work or an exam. Students in the specialization in sociology of globalization must also demonstrate proficiency in one foreign language at an advanced level of reading and comprehension. Advancement to Candidacy
To advance to candidacy, doctoral students must complete all course work required on their approved program of study. Students must also successfully pass two written qualifying examinations. One examination is in the foundations of sociological inquiry, linking research methods and sociological theory to public concerns. The second examination is in the student’s area of specialization, administered by a faculty committee appointed by the graduate program director.
In addition, students must have a dissertation committee appointed by the dean and an approved dissertation proposal. Evidence of the approved proposal must be on file in the Dean’s Office before advancement. Continuous Registration
Once enrolled in SOCI 998, students must maintain continuous registration for at least 1 credit; once enrolled in 999 students must follow the university continuous registration policy. |
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