Sociology PhD

Build upon your foundation in sociological theory and research with a Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology in the College of Liberal Arts at Temple University. This 52-credit PhD program provides advanced training in sociological theory, statistics and research methods in a variety of sociology subfields. Students are prepared for research and teaching in academia and for advanced work in a variety of professional settings.

The main areas of doctoral research are

gender and sexuality;
globalization;
immigration;
medical sociology;
race and ethnicity; and
urban sociology.

Sociology PhD students and faculty are passionate about social change. You will be a part of a community that is concerned with topics that include

how identities influence the production and consumption of popular culture;
how race and social status are reproduced and challenged in our educational system;
how science influences perceptions of sexual identity;
unionization as a global phenomenon; and
why trust matters in social relationships.

You will also examine the intersection of people and space with political and economic structures, and the complexities of emotions and affect for relationships in the social world.

As part of an R1 research institution, the Sociology Department is committed to pushing boundaries in research, supporting its scholars in developing actionable solutions and creating impactful change.

Learn more about current Sociology faculty and their areas of expertise.

Program Format & Curriculum

Students have seven years to complete their degree. Full-time study is preferred, but part-time enrollment can be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The Sociology PhD curriculum consists of core courses, electives, a preliminary examination and personal research which culminates in a written dissertation and oral defense.

Students must complete the following core courses.

Classical Social Theory
Contemporary Sociological Theory
Graduate Data Analysis
Inferential and Multivariate Statistics
Logic of Inquiry
Qualitative Methods
Qualitative Data Analysis

Learn more about the Sociology PhD curriculum requirements.

Related Graduate Degrees

Our Community

The College of Liberal Arts at Temple comprises many academic disciplines and research areas. Now more than ever, an interdisciplinary liberal arts education is invaluable for your future pursuits. It offers the opportunity to further push your drive to create real change in the world, here at Temple and beyond. In this graduate program, you’ll work closely with diverse faculty members who are highly esteemed in their field and with a curious, passionate community of peers. Learn more about the College of Liberal Arts.

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Doctor of Philosophy offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,105.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,518.00 per credit

You can view the full cost of attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

Program Contact

With questions regarding the Sociology PhD, contact the following staff member.

Joseph DelMastro is an administrator in the Sociology Department.
Phone: 215-204-1376
Email: joseph.delmastro@temple.edu

The following staff members lead the Sociology Department.

James Bachmeier is the director of Graduate Studies.
Email: james.bachmeier@temple.edu

Kimberly Goyette is the chair of the Sociology Department.
Email: kgoyette@temple.edu

Catherine Staples is the coordinator in the Sociology Department.
Phone: 215-204-1494
Email: cstaples@temple.edu

Dual Degree Programs

Student Clubs & Organizations

Supplement your Sociology PhD coursework and enhance your graduate education experience through student clubs and organizations. You’ll meet and network with other students, become involved with the community, and build invaluable skills to help you realize your personal and professional goals.

The Sociology Graduate Student Association represents and advocates for the collective interests of sociology graduate students, working to optimize the environment in which students develop professionally and personally. The association provides professional development workshops, social opportunities and graduate student advocacy.

Learn more about Temple’s student clubs and organizations.

Accreditation

LA-SOC-PHD

Additional Program Information

Visit College Site

View Program Details