Social Sciences focus on culture, human relationships, and society. With an online Doctorate in Social Sciences degree program, graduates concentrate on specific fields of study, including behavioral economics, cognitive science, and political theory. Online programs featuring the degree are designed to enable adult learners to gain advanced knowledge and a unique set of skills that can qualify them as experts in their careers.
Students pursuing a Doctorate in Social Sciences are typically those who pass standardized exams relevant to the field and have work experience. Upon graduation, Doctors of Social Sciences become experts in the field of research. They become bona fide members of an academic faculty specializing in the discipline. Careers in public service and government policy are also possible career options.
Featured Schools
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, in general, college graduates with a Social Sciences major earn relatively high wages, with their specializations required in various industries.
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- Best Online Schools for Doctorate in Social Sciences
METHODOLOGY
The doctorate programs in each of the below schools combine rigorous coursework with high-quality instruction from professors who are renowned experts in the field. As the field of Social Sciences can cover a wide array of topics, our choices for the 10 Best Online Schools for Doctorate in Social Sciences degree programs are listed in random order. Each one is unique, and you should explore each one to assess the school’s online offerings and how well they will fit your specific needs in a doctoral program. Our criteria for selecting the 10 Best Online Schools for Doctorate in Social Sciences include the following:
- Proper Accreditation status,
- Student’s satisfaction according to retention rates no lower than 50%,
- Financial Aid and Credit Transfer opportunities,
- Diverse curriculum programs, offering research in various fields of Social Sciences, such as Political Science, Economics, Psychology, Law, and Public Policy, among others,
- Promotes independent research and lab experiments in all areas of Social Sciences, as well as, collaborative projects requiring group participation through workshops and seminars; honing data and analysis skills used in the field,
- Designed to teach progressive coursework in Social Sciences and an overall student learning experience preparing students for advancement and leadership roles,
- Apprenticeship, residency or teaching assistantship and dissertation may be required for graduation,
- Exceptional admission requirements to highlight the online school’s commitment to superior quality of education.
To learn more, feel free to check out our Methodology page.
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Best Online Schools for Doctorate in Social Sciences
CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
ONLINE PH.D./DOCTORATE PROGRAM IN SOCIAL SCIENCE PROGRAM
Program Standouts: California Institute of Technology has a Social Science Ph.D. program that provides the opportunity for students who are highly motivated to pursue research in anthropology, economics, history, law, political economy, political science, and psychology. Graduate students utilized the HSS research centers, Caltech Brain Imaging Center (CBIC), and Social Science Experimental Laboratory.
The school is one of the pioneering research institutions to first use experimentation in the study of political science, and economics. This online social science Ph.D. program requires independent research to earn this degree, as well as participation and attendance in workshops and seminars.
Seminars are conducted weekly, and usually, feature a colleague from another university while workshops are informal gatherings where students and faculty present their work in progress.
Campus Location: Pasadena, California
Accreditation: California Institute of Technology has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Retention Rate: 98%
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Admission Requirements:
- Admission Application
- Undergraduate Background in Mathematics (2 years of Calculus, and Linear Algebra)
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores
- TOEFL (For International Students only)
Program Core Components:
- Political Theory
- Identification Problems in the Social Sciences
- Comparative Politics
- Cognition
- Analytical Foundations of Social Science
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates are equipped with a strong background in political science, econometrics, and economics, ability to communicate and collaborate effectively across several fields in the social sciences, and earn a solid understanding of technology tools as well as demonstrate a high quality and independent research.
They have found positions in leading university departments of law, economics, and political science as well as careers in the industry, and government sectors.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY’S ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAM IN SOCIAL SCIENCE PROGRAM
JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
ONLINE PH.D. IN SOCIOLOGY PROGRAM
Program Standouts: Johns Hopkins University has a Ph.D. in Sociology program that teaches advanced knowledge in sociology, psychology, economics, and conducts research programs.
This doctorate program is aimed at professionals who are looking to advance their careers through graduate studies further. A focus on qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, concepts, and theories is one of the highlights of this program.
The completion of this program is divided into seven (7) major requirements such as:
- (1) seven core courses,
- (2) seven elective courses,
- (3) Research Apprenticeship,
- (4) Trial Research Paper,
- (5) Teaching Assistantship,
- (6) University residence requirements,
- (7) Dissertation Proposal.
Campus Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Accreditation: Johns Hopkins University has earned accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Retention Rate: 97%
Acceptance Rate: 8%
Admission Requirements:
- log their applications online through the website provided by JHU,
- submit all college transcript of records,
- application fee,
- statement of purpose,
- samples of written work,
- GRE scores,
- and three (3) letters of recommendation.
Also, the applicant must have a solid background of social sciences specifically in economics, psychology, and sociology. A mathematics background is encouraged.
Program Core Components:
- Introduction to Social Statistics
- Linear Models for the Social Sciences
- Sociological Analysis
- Classical Social Theory
- Qualitative Research Methods in the Social Sciences
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates demonstrate great learning fundamentals of the research methodologies and theories of the different principles that effective researchers adhere to. Also, they are placed in different professional career pathways that need their expertise in research. Also, JHU provides a range of student support services including placement services for their graduates.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN SOCIOLOGY PROGRAM
THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO
ONLINE PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
Program Standouts: The University of New Mexico offers a Ph.D. in Sociology that is actively engaged in teaching, and research with a strong commitment to diversity in their graduate programs. The university provides advance comprehension of society and aims to analyze human relationships, social institutions, and the principles of social change.
This online Ph.D. program is composed of three (3) major Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) namely:
- Specialized Knowledge,
- Original Research,
- and Pedagogical.
All students must complete 48 hours of course work. Also, a dissertation that comprises 18 hours out of the 48 hours is required to earn this degree.
Campus Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Accreditation: The University of New Mexico has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.
Retention Rate: 78%
Acceptance Rate: 97%
Admission Requirements:
- Online Admission Application
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Letter of Intent
- Three (3) Letters of Recommendation
- Two (2) Writing Samples
- Unofficial Transcript of Records
- Unofficial GRE Scores
Program Core Components:
- Contemporary Theory I and II
- Advanced Social Statistics I and II
- Sociological Fieldwork Methods: Ethnography, Interviews, Focus Groups
- Classical Social Theory
- Methods of Social Research I
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this online Ph.D. program will be able to organize and define a research project and assignment. They can explain the significant characteristics of four sociology sub-discipline principles, and the advantages and disadvantages of disciplinary sub-divisions.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO’S ONLINE PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
CAPELLA UNIVERSITY
ONLINE PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES SPECIALIZATION
Program Standouts: The Ph.D. program in social and community services specialization of Capella University helps prepare students for leadership roles as a social change agent in the national, state, and community sectors.
This online Ph.D. program is suitable for individuals who have a passion for helping communities and people. As a result, this program helps them harness their passion into something powerful and transformative, and turn them into leaders who drive real change.
A total number of 92 credit hours is needed to earn this degree. Also, a dissertation is mandatory for all students. Capella University’s GuidedPath program is readily compatible with the social science-related program that provides students the flexibility to earn this program at their learning timeframe.
Campus Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Accreditation: Capella University receives regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Retention Rate: 56%
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
- Master’s Degree from accredited college or university
- Admission Application
- A $50 Non-Refundable Application Fee
- Official Master’s Transcript of Records, minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Test for Proof of English Proficiency (For international students only)
- Transcript Evaluation
Program Core Components:
- Multidisciplinary Practice and Case Analysis for Doctoral Learners
- Advanced Research Methods in Human Services
- Diversity in the Workplace
- Survey of Research Methods
- Social Influences of Behavior
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates are prepared for a rewarding career in several industries and sectors. They can work as an executive director, program manager, international human rights agency, advisor, consultant, case manager, full-time or part-time faculty, and other related employment settings to explore.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CAPELLA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES SPECIALIZATION
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
Program Standouts: South Dakota State University has a Ph.D. program in Sociology that prepares students for successful careers in research and creative activity, teaching, and applied sociology in industry, government and academic settings.
This online Ph.D. program provides a solid foundational background in different core areas of qualitative and quantitative methods and sociological theories and principles. Also, students get to have online teaching opportunities and develop skills to engage in the learning and scholarship of teaching.
Students need to earn a minimum of 60 credits to earn this degree. A dissertation and an applied sociology internship are required for the completion of this program.
Campus Location: Brookings, South Dakota
Accreditation: South Dakota State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Retention Rate: 76%
Acceptance Rate: 87%
Admission Requirements:
- Admission Application
- Application Fee
- Any Accredited Bachelor’s and Master’s degree (Thesis Option)
- Two (2) Signed Letters of Recommendation
- Writing Samples
- Personal Statement
- Post-secondary Transcripts, and Degree Certificates
Program Core Components:
- Sociological I and II
- Sociological Practice and Public Policy
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Research Methods
- Teaching Sociology
Degree Outcomes:
The set of course work and fieldwork is designed to help mold students to assist in non-profit institutions, public agencies, and private organizations. Graduates have experiences in identifying the extent to which their medium of instruction makes an impact on the students’ academic development and capabilities.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
THE UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
ONLINE PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
Program Standouts: The Ph.D. program offered by the University of Iowa provides rigorous training in methods and theory across several substantive areas including:
- Gender and Family,
- Social and Political Organizations,
- Social Psychology and Crime,
- Law and Social Control.
This online doctoral program emphasizes research and prepares sociologists for positions in the private, academic, and government sectors. The training program includes a credited teaching seminar for advanced graduate students’ orientation.
This Ph.D. program requires at least 72 semester hours. Also, a Ph.D. dissertation is mandatory for all students to earn this degree successfully.
Campus Location: Iowa City, Iowa
Accreditation: The University of Iowa receives accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Retention Rate: 86%
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Admission Requirements:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in a regionally accredited American University or College
- Admission Application
- Departmental Application Statement
- Three (3) Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement for pursuing advanced work in Sociology
- GPA 3.25
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) of 4.0
- TOEFL Exam (For non-English speaking international students)
Program Core Components:
- History of Sociological Theory
- Qualitative Methods
- Introduction to Sociological Data Analysis
- Advanced Statistical Modeling of Data
- Theory Construction and Analysis
Degree Outcomes
Ph.D. graduates of the University of Iowa’s program in Sociology work closely together to collaborate in different research centers as well as developing their independent research programs. They earn substantial training and experiences in undergraduate teaching.
Also, they can work with the university’s affiliated research centers namely Center for Criminology and Socio-Legal Studies, and The Center for the Study of Group Processes.
THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE KNOXVILLE
PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
Program Standouts: The doctorate program in Sociology of the University of Tennessee Knoxville provides a comprehensive approach in the study of sociology as well as enabling students to become competent researchers in their current and future professional careers.
Students learn several areas of study with the integration of four different specializations offered namely:
- Critical Race & Ethnic Studies,
- Criminology,
- Political Economy & Globalization,
- and Environmental Sociology.
This comprehensive Ph.D. program requires 51 hours of coursework – 24 credit hours in doctoral studies, and 27 hours in coursework. A dissertation and defense based on original research that already includes methodology and theory must be completed with at least 24 credit hours of the program.
Campus Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
Accreditation: The University of Tennessee Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Retention Rate: 87%
Acceptance Rate: 75%
Admission Requirements:
- Admission Application
- Letter of Intent regarding the motivation to pursue graduate studies at the University of Tennessee Sociology
- Three (3) Letters of Recommendation
- Master’s Degree in one of the Social Sciences programs
Program Core Components:
- Sociological Theory II
- Comparative Historical Sociology
- Discourse Analysis
- Field Research
- Advanced Quantitative Methods
Degree Outcomes:
The University of Tennessee Knoxville graduates have established leadership positions in a wide array of industries and government sectors such as research centers, administrations, and academic institutions.
The coursework prepares students to engage in a variety of rewarding professional career pathways, and conduct high-quality research work that is beneficial to their chosen field of study.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE KNOXVILLE’S PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY
PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
Program Standouts: Louisiana State University’s Ph.D. program in Sociology is specially designed for students to prepare them in promising careers in sociology that combines teaching and research in one or more areas of study.
Students develop a robust specialty area and conduct a research program in that specific area. Also, a broad general knowledge of research methodology and sociological theory is taught by faculty with expertise in the industry. Through the set of coursework, students learn the skills essential to produce high-quality research and present their results.
Annual Reports are submitted to the graduate director with the summary of their academic activities during the previous years.
Campus Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Accreditation: Louisiana State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Retention Rate: 84%
Acceptance Rate: 71%
Admission Requirements:
- Master’s Degree from an accredited U.S. college or university
- GPA of at least 3.0
- Official Transcript of Records
- Application Processing Fee
- Admission Application
Program Core Components:
- Classical Sociological Theory
- Methods of Social Investigation
- Contemporary Sociological Theory
- Specialized Topics in Social Science Methods
- Fundamental Statistics in Sociology
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from LSU have the flexibility to advance further their professional career pathways within the same industry or career shift. They are essentially equipped to take on professional endeavors.
Also, they can conduct quantitative and qualitative research work across several areas of study, particularly in economics, politics, sociology, psychology, and humanities.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY’S PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
Program Standouts: Colorado State University has a Ph.D. program that is built on four (4) overlapping areas of strength based on the program’s specializations. The faculty handling this Ph.D. program performs research, outreach, and engagements in two or more areas that help them prepare students to make rigorous but flexible contributions as world-class sociologists.
The university provides a supportive and professional environment with open-door accessibility to state-of-the-art faculty at a Tier 1 grant research institution. Also, there is an interdisciplinary community of graduate students and faculty members across the university with collaboration and networking opportunities.
Campus Location: Fort Collins, Colorado
Accreditation: Colorado State University has earned accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Retention Rate: 83%
Acceptance Rate: 90%
Admission Requirements:
- Statement of Purpose stating how your interests and professional goals suit the Sociology program. It must not exceed 1,000 words.
- Certified Transcript of Records
- Three (3) Letters of Recommendation with Names, Office Addresses, and Email Addresses of the Individuals
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores
- TOEFL of 80 minimum score, or IELTS (6.5) for International Students
Program Specializations:
- Environment & Natural Resources
- Crime, Law & Deviance
- Food, Agriculture & Development
- Social Inequality, Social Justice & Governance
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates students of ColoState are equipped with the necessary professional skills for the competitive public, academic, and private sectors.
They have high competence in research methodology, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, and social theory. Also, they can collaborate effectively and creatively within Sociology and across interdisciplinary complex environmental problems.
LEARN MORE ABOUT COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY’S PH.D. PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I consider earning a Doctorate in Social Sciences?
A Doctorate in Social Sciences can provide you with the advanced skills, knowledge, and credentials to pursue a career in research, higher education, consulting, and many other areas. It can also open opportunities to work in specialized fields such as international development, public policy, and social work.
Earning a Doctorate in Social Sciences can also help you to develop a more in-depth understanding of the complexities of society and its impact on individuals, groups, and organizations. As a result, you can gain invaluable skills and insights that will allow you to positively contribute to society.
What career can I expect with a Doctorate in Social Sciences degree?
With a Doctorate in Social Sciences, you can pursue a wide range of career opportunities. These include positions in research, higher education, consulting, and public policy. You can also find many job opportunities in the non-profit sector, government, and private organizations.
Depending on your area of specialization and interests, you can pursue a career in areas such as international development, public health, psychology, sociology, economics, political science, and more.
With a Doctorate in Social Sciences, you can also have the opportunity to pursue a career in teaching and research at the university level.
Can I earn a lucrative salary in the field of Social Sciences with a Doctorate degree?
Yes, it is possible to earn a lucrative salary as a professional in the field of Social Sciences with a Doctorate degree. The exact salary you can earn will depend on factors such as your area of specialization, experience, and the organization you are working for.
However, it is possible to earn a competitive salary in the field of Social Sciences with a Doctorate degree.
Will earning a doctorate degree in Social Sciences lead to a leadership role?
Yes, earning a Doctorate in Social Sciences can lead to a leadership role. With a Doctorate in Social Sciences, you can pursue a range of opportunities in research, higher education, consulting, and the non-profit sector. Your advanced skills and knowledge will also allow you to take on a leadership role in the field of Social Sciences.
