Course requirements for the Ph.D. include all those for the MA plus two additional graduate seminars in sociology, one additional upper-division or graduate course/seminar in sociology or another field, and an upper-division/ graduate course covering U.S. multicultural issues. Students who emphasized quantitative research methods at the MA level are required to take a one quarter course in qualitative or historical/comparative research methods. In addition to the required coursework, PhD students write one article length professional quality paper. Acceptable papers will analyze new data, or develop a new analysis of existing data. Papers are evaluated (Pass, Pass With Suggested Changes, Revise and Resubmit With Suggested Changes, or Fail) by a three person faculty committee selected by the students.

Each entering student is assigned a first-year advisor who will meet with the student to develop a curricular plan. At the end of the first year, each student must choose a major professor.  Major Professor duties include: helping develop a curricular plan; discussing graduate program reviews; providing committee, funding, and professional advice. Subsequently, changes of the major professor may be initiated (by the student or the faculty member) at any time. To change your major professor, please obtain a “Major Professor Change” form from the Graduate Staff Advisor. Click here for more information on faculty support.

Upon successful completion of all coursework and the professional quality paper, a qualifying examination is scheduled. The exam covers two broad fields of sociology chosen from a departmental list. It may be written (2-day take-home) or oral (3 hours) and is graded Pass or Fail by a five person committee. Students then prepare a doctoral dissertation prospectus. As the final step toward the degree, students complete a doctoral dissertation. Approved by a three member faculty dissertation committee, one member of which must be from outside the department. Students should complete all requirements-- except the dissertation within 3 to 4 years.

Students entering with a Masters degree should consult with both their first year major professor and the Graduate Staff Adviser about possible exemptions from certain course requirements. Courses from other campuses may be, but are not automatically accepted and are reviewed on a case-by- case basis. Students who believe they have completed the equivalent of one or more required graduate courses may petition the Graduate Program Committee for exemption.

More information about requirements or expectations may be found in the graduate handbook.

Inquires about our graduate program should be sent to the Graduate Program Coordinator at dmbesser@ucdavis.edu.