Doctor of Philosophy

Admission Requirements

The priority deadline for applying to the Ph.D. program is January 15 for a Fall semester start date.

The following documents should be submitted (uploaded) with your application:

  • Official GRE scores. Successful applicants typically have a GRE score of at least 160 verbal and 144 quantitative; (GRE IS WAIVED FOR 2023-2024 APPLICATION CYCLE)
  • Two official transcripts from previous college work leading to the B.A. and M.A. degree. Successful applicants typically have an a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 in graduate work;
  • International students having earned their M.A. in a country whose official language is not English are required to (a) arrange to have their transcripts officially translated; (b) send TOEFL scores which should be a minimum of 100 (internet based), 600 (paper based);
  • A statement of purpose detailing: research interests, reasons for seeking a Ph.D., future career goals, the fit between goals and the Sociology program at USF, a summary of scholarly and extra-curricular activities, and the names of Sociology department faculty members who would be appropriate advisors;
  • A writing sample written solely by the applicant (such as a thesis chapter or seminar paper) which demonstrates the ability to conduct research and write effectively;
  • Curriculum vitae; and
  • Three letters of reference from academic sources or others able to judge academic abilities and potential.

NOTE:

  • Applicants for the Ph.D. program are required to have a Master’s Degree from an accredited institution. Additional documentation (such as syllabi) may be required to determine that there is sufficient preparation to begin work at the Ph.D. level. An outcome of this evaluation may be to require additional course work before formal admission into the Ph.D. program. Additional courses will not count toward units needed to achieve the Ph.D. degree. Although admission decisions typically are made in January-February, final decisions for students who have not yet completed their M.A. degree are contingent upon the completion of that degree before entering the program.
  • All applications are subject to a competitive review by the members of the Department of Sociology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Graduate Committee. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission into the program. Applicants might also be asked to participate in an interview (in person or phone) with members of the Department of Sociology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Graduate Committee.
  • It is highly recommended that applicants establish contact with the Sociology Graduate Director quite early in the application process. (see for additional contact information).