PHD Sociology

Course summary

• Undertake a supervised study in a range of sociological areas.
• Benefit from the knowledge of research active staff who submitted to the most recent Research Excellence Framework.
• Take advantage of links with other Hallam research centres.

Using a range of social theories, as well as qualitative, quantitative and mixed-method approaches, you will produce a piece of original sociological research in areas including social class, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, education, health, and employment and welfare. You have the chance to work with the Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research and Centre for Development and Research in Education.

How you learn

Throughout a period of intensive, supervised investigative work, you work closely with specialists in your chosen field to produce an extended thesis of up to 80,000 words in the case of doctoral research. You can take modules and supplementary online courses to develop skills in relation to a range of methodologies, methods and theoretical approaches. The work you complete on these can be included as part of your qualification.

You learn through

• supervised research
• meetings
• seminars and training sessions
• informal group sessions

Future careers

Doctorates are essential qualifications for many careers in academia, the policy sector, and public and commercial research organisations. Our research is often applied, which prepares you to tackle issues of immediate relevance to statutory and voluntary agencies. Our alumni have gone on to take up academic posts in both teaching and research roles, as well as public sector organisations. Many people take part-time degrees in collaboration with their current employer.