PhD Sociology

PhD Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Prospective PhD applicants are expected to hold a taught Masters degree in a relevant subject area. The university typically requires a minimum of 65% as the standard for academic performance in the completed Masters program.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 or 7.0 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.0.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 92 on the TOEFL is accepted, with no sub-score in any section falling below 20.
• PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.

Students must provide:

• Academic marksheets & transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement - SOP
• Passport
• Other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some PhD courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Abertay University offers several types of scholarships for international Ph.D. students, each with its own criteria and benefits. 

Merit-Based Scholarships: Awards based on academic excellence, research potential, and achievements. Merit-based scholarships aim to attract high-achieving students to contribute to the university's research community.

Research-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are dedicated to students undertaking research in specific fields. These may align with the university's strategic research priorities or emerging academic disciplines.

Partnership Scholarships: Collaborative initiatives between Abertay University and external partners may result in specific scholarships. These aim to strengthen ties with organizations, industries, or governments.

Graduates of Abertay University's PhD in Sociology program possess a wealth of knowledge and skills that open doors to diverse and impactful career opportunities. Their expertise in understanding societal structures, human behavior, and critical analysis positions them for roles that contribute to research, policy development, advocacy, education, and more.

Academic Researcher in Sociology: PhD holders can pursue academic careers as researchers in sociology, contributing to the scholarly understanding of social phenomena. They engage in cutting-edge research, publish findings in academic journals, and participate in research projects that advance sociological knowledge.

University Lecturer or Professor: Graduates may choose to become university lecturers or professors in sociology. They play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of sociologists, teaching courses, and conducting research that contributes to the academic community.

Policy Analyst or Researcher for Government Agencies: With a focus on policy, graduates can work as policy analysts or researchers for government agencies. They provide insights, conduct research, and contribute to the development of policies that address societal challenges and promote social well-being.

Social Research Consultant: PhD holders can become social research consultants, working with research firms or consultancy agencies. They design and execute research projects, analyze data, and provide valuable insights to businesses, NGOs, and governmental organizations.

Non-Profit Organization Director: Those passionate about social change can lead non-profit organizations as directors. They oversee initiatives, design programs, and advocate for social causes, leveraging their sociological expertise to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and social justice.

Human Resources Specialist with a Sociological Focus: Graduates can apply their sociological knowledge to human resources, specializing in organizational behavior, diversity and inclusion, and workplace dynamics. They contribute to creating inclusive work environments and enhancing organizational culture.

Community Development Officer: PhD holders may work as community development officers, collaborating with local communities to address social issues. They design and implement programs that promote community engagement, empowerment, and social cohesion.

Public Sociologist: Those interested in public engagement can become public sociologists, communicating sociological insights to broader audiences. They may write for popular publications, participate in media discussions, and engage in public debates on societal issues.

Social Impact Evaluator: Graduates can work as social impact evaluators, assessing the effectiveness of social programs and interventions. They contribute to evidence-based decision-making, ensuring that initiatives align with societal needs and produce meaningful outcomes.

Educational Consultant on Social Issues: With a focus on education, PhD holders can become consultants for educational institutions. They provide expertise on addressing social issues within educational settings, fostering inclusive learning environments and promoting social awareness.

Researcher in International Development: Those with a global perspective can work as researchers in international development. They contribute to understanding global social issues, collaborate with international organizations, and engage in research projects that address cross-cultural challenges.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Advisor: Graduates may work as CSR advisors, guiding corporations in incorporating socially responsible practices. They help organizations navigate social issues, contribute to community development, and align corporate strategies with societal needs.

Social Policy Analyst: PhD holders can pursue careers as social policy analysts, influencing policy development at national or international levels. They engage with governmental bodies, think tanks, and advocacy organizations to shape policies that address societal inequalities and challenges.