• Sociologists use qualitative techniques, including ethnography; participant observation; and case studies of a variety of social phenomena, processes, and problems as methods for exploring the meaning of social life and culture to those who live it, and in building inductive theory. Quantitative techniques engage in hypothesis testing of established theories and concepts, using techniques that include experimental designs, survey questionnaires, and network analysis. 
  • Sociology as a discipline includes “ways of knowing” that link it closely to methods of the natural sciences and more interpretive and critical perspectives that are closer to scholarship in the humanities.
  • Upon completing the PhD degree in the field of Sociology, students will be able to:
    • Understand and apply the role of theory in sociology.
    • Demonstrate understanding and application of both qualitative and quantitative sociological methods.
    • Demonstrate expertise in at least two specialty areas within sociology.