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Faculty of Arts
UNB Fredericton

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PhD in Sociology

Our Doctor of Philosophydoctoral (PhD) program focuses on developing your aims to develop students’ skills and competence to undertake generate knowledge through independent research work. We also place considerable emphasis on developing your teaching competence. The program is expected to be completed within four4 years, including the necessary required coursework (typically six courses, both core and elective), two comprehensive examinations, a directed experiential learning practicuma teaching development and a dissertation.

The courses cover required subjects of sociological theory, social scientific inquiry, social statistics and qualitative methods as well as an elective in your chosen area. Our doctoral program includes two comprehensive exams, each serving to consolidate a body of knowledge based on published material: one in social theory and another in an elective subdiscipline such as criminology, health sociology or population studies.

Sounds interesting?

Applicants to the Sociology PhD program should hold a master’s degree in sociology (or equivalent), with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.7 / 4.3 (A-). Students with a master’s in a field other than sociology may be considered for admission following completion of a qualifying year. To seek a potential dissertation supervisor, please contact faculty members to ascertain availability and common research interests.

All applications must include:

  • a letter of intent (approximately 600 words) indicating your research experience and interests and reason for selecting UNB Sociology to meet your future goals
  • a writing sample (e.g., a term paper, thesis excerpt, or publication of about 15-20 pages that demonstrates your academic writing skills)
  • official academic transcripts (undergraduate and master’s)
  • three letters of reference
  • a curriculum vitae.

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