Sociology, PhD
Pursue a PhD in sociology as you seek to understand social behavior and the structural factors that contribute to social injustices alongside faculty mentors. In the seminar room and in the field, you will continue to develop the intellectual tools to identify and critically analyze social phenomena and trends, along with the methodological tools to conduct rigorous research.
Program Overview
Our Sociology PhD program prepares students interested in social justice for research and knowledge-seeking opportunities via four possible concentrations.
With opportunities to conduct research and complete a dissertation in criminology, critical race and ethnic studies, environmental sociology, or political economy and globalization, our students will graduate prepared for whatever path lies ahead.
Plus, with the program’s opportunity to choose a second research area, you’ll gain an interdisciplinary understanding of sociology. Whether that’s in social theory, a foreign language, statistics, or an area of your choosing, you’ll learn to collaborate across disciplines, add new dimensions to your research, and forge unexpected connections.
At UT, our PhD program will give you a competitive advantage, allowing you to refine your ideas and drive meaningful progress.
Concentrations
Our PhD program currently offers four concentrations. Whether you’re interested in exploring criminal behavior through criminology, social injustices, or environmental and political factors in sociology, we offer a concentration for whatever your interests are.
Our current selection of concentrations include:
- Criminology concentration
- Critical Race and Ethnic Studies concentration
- Environmental Sociology concentration
- Political Economy and Globalization concentration
Why Study Sociology?
At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, our doctorate program provides a nurturing environment to conduct in-depth research and the confidence to present that research at professional conferences or pursue academic publications. Additionally, with opportunities to step up and lead classes, you’ll graduate equipped and prepared to teach sociology in your own classroom at leading higher education institutions.
For students particularly interested in academic research, our program encourages you to obtain an Intercollegiate Graduate Statistics and Data Science Minor, which can help you hone your quantitative and data science research skills for incorporation into your unique sociology research interests.
What Can You Do with a PhD in Sociology After Graduation?
Our degree is intended for students planning to pursue careers in a variety of professional fields, including higher education, government, and law. Students might go on to become researchers and academic professors at leading higher education institutions across the country, or work for local, state, and federal government agencies as policy analysts or legislative advisors. In these positions, analytical, advisory, and research-focused skills are highly desired. Others might even go on to work in non-profit or community organizations where knowledge of multiculturalism and social dynamics is important.
For students interested in turning sociological data into impact, many have gone on to opportunities in market research, where a strong understanding of user and consumer needs can help improve product and website designs.
Whatever your career aspirations, our program prepares you with the skills to drive change and tackle urgent challenges.
Featured Courses
SOCI 652 Law and Society
This course examines the relationships and interactions between law, social structure, and cultural practices, with a focus upon legal, criminal, and political theory. Substantive areas include law and the state, inequality and the law, legal systems, rights discourse, and citizenship.
SOCI 694 Global Racism
This course introduces students to the idea of race globally. Students will also learn how sociological and interdisciplinary race scholars theoretically position race in different geographies. Special attention will be given to Latin America, Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States.
SOCI 503 Foundations of Environmental Sociology
Topics discussed in this course include systematic treatment of current research in environmental sociology, social impact analysis, and conflicts over environmental issues.
SOCI 541 Collective Behavior, Social Movements, Social Change
This course teaches students the basic theory and research on conditions of social unrest in human collectivities and efforts of collectives to change existing society.
Complementary Majors, Minors, and Certificates
Looking to enhance your degree? Consider these programs as a complement to your primary major.
Looking For More Options?
The College of Arts and Sciences offers students the broadest range of academic programs and opportunities for research and creative activities at the University of Tennessee, powered by faculty expertise across every discipline.
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