Sociology | PhD
Push the Boundaries of Sociological Knowledge
Prepare for a career in research, teaching, government, law, community affairs, and beyond with advanced training in the study of sociology.
The University of Guelph's PhD program trains you to become a highly independent sociological thinker and skilled researcher capable of pushing the boundaries of knowledge in an area you are passionate about.
You'll gain valuable leadership experience and professional development as you build the skills to succeed inside and outside of academia, such as advanced theoretical and methodological competence, an ability to conduct research independently at the cutting edge of your field, and the expertise to communicate with precision and confidence while working with renowned faculty.
Faculty and Program Format
Our PhD program is delivered in-person and on a full-time basis at the University of Guelph's main campus.
The Department of Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Guelph is home is 25+ sociologists who are active in the Canadian sociological community, regularly securing competitive grants, publishing in top journals, and presenting at national and international conferences.
The faculty's expertise covers the breadth of sociology, so use our search tool to explore their specialties. If you're ready to take the next step and apply, contact the faculty member you would like to work with and tell them about your research interests.
Timeline
The program starts in September and typically takes 12 consecutive semesters to complete.
Courses and Requirements
- Advanced Topics in Sociological Theory
- Advanced Issues in Mixed Research Methodologies
- Professional seminar in sociology
- An elective course
- Readings and a qualifying exam
- A research thesis
Four Specialty Fields to Choose From
Crime and Social Control
This field reflects sociological interests in how crime is defined, measured, explained and reacted to by society. You'll be exposed to a range of topics, including the social construction of crime, victimization, homelessness, intimate partner violence, drug policy, feminist criminology, critical criminology, restorative justice, policing, corrections, wrongful convictions, and life course criminology.
Environment, Food, and Communities
This field reflects sociological interests in broad societal-ecological interactions, drawing on established methodologies in the field, including the comparative and historical approach, to examine them. Study the ways in which structure, power, culture, gender, race, and class play out in areas like natural resources, food systems, environmental justice, and community sustainability.
Identities and Social Inclusion
This field reflects sociological interests in intergroup relations, with emphasis on struggles over influence and power. You'll study the complex intersection of forms of identity and group mobilization based on ethnic, linguistic, regional, class, gender, racial and other forms of social division. The field also looks at Indigenous issues and policies related to multiculturalism, equity and regional autonomy.
Work and Organization
This field reflects sociological interests in changing patterns of work in comparative contexts, including labour markets, industrial change, organizations and protest, and the regulation of work. Study the relationship between gender, class, ethnicity, and the transformation and reorganization of work, locating trends within the broader processes of globalization, economic restructuring, and shifts in public policy.
Extend Your Learning with a Collaborative Specialization
In addition to the four fields available to sociology PhD students, you can choose one of the following add-ons to give your research an interdisciplinary edge:
Meet our Alumni
Dr. Dylan Reynolds completed his PhD under the supervision of Prof. Ryan Broll. He is currently Assistant Professor in Sociology at Cape Breton University, with a specialization in quantitative methods. During his doctoral program, Dylan regularly presented his work at leading national and international conferences as well as to policy makers and ministry officials.
Dr. Sarah Cahill is the Associate Director of Graduate Studies in U of G's College of Social and Applied Human Sciences. While completing her doctorate, she was hired to research the professional development needs of grad students. Sarah loves her current role developing curriculum, coordinating funding, and improving the overall graduate student experience.
Applying to Grad Studies in Sociology
Admission to our department is competitive. We consider applicants who meet the following requirements:
- Master of arts in sociology with high academic standing (80% or higher).
- Completion of courses in sociological theory, qualitative and quantitative methods, and courses from across the breadth of the discipline.
Note: The requirements may be in progress at the time of application but must be completed by April 30 of the entrance year.
Visit the Office of Registrarial Services website for full details on domestic and international tuition per semester.
PhD students are guaranteed a minimum stipend of $20,000 per year for a period of four years.
Applicants are also encouraged to apply for external scholarships in the fall of the year before entering the program. External award opportunities include, but are not limited to:
Applicants can also browse scholarships available to graduate students in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology.
Learn more about funding your graduate studies.
Get in Touch
Questions about the PhD in sociology? Contact the Graduate Program Team at csahs.admissions@uoguelph.ca.