The sociology Ph.D. program promotes excellence in research, preparing the next generation of scholars to join the professoriate. Doctoral programs in sociology can lead graduates into a variety of professions. We prioritize academic training for academic jobs and invite applicants whose goals align with that mission.

Our program is carefully designed to prepare students for top academic jobs. Through coursework and close mentorship, we train graduate students to produce innovative empirical research that will be published in the field’s top venues.

While the graduate program specializes in Health & Medicine and Social Movements, we offer training in a variety of theories and methods. We encourage prospective students to consider how their own research interests align with those of the Department of Sociology faculty.

•  All students accepted into the program are fully funded for six years, including a graduate assistantship that provides the opportunity for one-on-one mentorship and experiential learning.

• A low student-to-faculty ratio (~1:1) allows for personalized instruction and mentorship.

• Collaborative environment with emphasis on faculty and student research projects and publications.

• Opportunity to learn the ins and outs of publishing from highly productive faculty, including the past editors of ASR and current editor of Work and Occupations.

• Close ties to interdisciplinary research centers and programs at Vanderbilt.

All first-year Ph.D. students are assigned an adviser to support their professional, intellectual, scholarly, and social integration into the department, the college, the Graduate School, the university, and the discipline.

The Vanderbilt Ph.D. program in sociology ranks among the top programs of its kind.

Qualifications

An undergraduate degree from an accredited, four-year institution:

• A minimum 3.0 GPA

• A passion for researching and teaching about human society

• A desire for an academic career

• Talented writing and public speaking skills

• Skilled time management and the ability to balance multiple demands

• Proficiency in English (if English is not your first language- TOEFL score above 570 must be demonstrated)

Information to Submit

• GRE verbal and quantitative scores (GRE fee reduction applications available here)

• Transcripts from prior undergraduate and graduate work

• TOEFL scores (if English is not your first language)

• Statement of Purpose. This is your opportunity to tell us why you are choosing us, and why we should choose you. What is it about our program that fits with your career aspirations? Be specific about your research interests, faculty you would like to work with, and your career goals.

• Sole-authored writing sample that demonstrates your ability to communicate complex sociological ideas and draw inferences from empirical research

• Three letters of recommendation

The application cycle opens on August 1 and ends on December 1. The application fee is $95, and students apply through the Vanderbilt University Graduate School. More information about the application process can be found on the Graduate School website.