Main navigation
- Programs
- Subjects
- Universities
- Destinations
- Advice
At the University of Pennsylvania, graduate studies are organized through specialized graduate groups that focus on distinct academic disciplines. These groups oversee programs culminating in AM and PhD qualifications. Prospective Sociology graduate students must submit their applications to the Sociology Graduate Group. The Sociology curriculum awards an MA as part of the progression toward a PhD, with no standalone Master's program available. Students can pursue a dual PhD in Sociology alongside another field by gaining admission to and completing the requirements of both doctoral programs while submitting one dissertation. Presently, enrolled students are pursuing combined degrees with Demography, Education, Communications, and Africana Studies. Those interested in a joint PhD involving Sociology and another discipline must secure admission to both programs, though acceptance into the second program may follow initial admission to Sociology.
Applicant must have obtained a bachelor's degree from an accredited School or University prior to intended matriculation date.
A strong command of the English language is necessary for successful study at Penn. Applicants whose families do not speak English at home, or applicants who have not attended a high school or secondary school where the primary language of instruction is English, are asked to take the TOEFL, the Test of English as a Foreign Language, administered by the Educational Testing Service. In the event the TOEFL is not readily accessible, Penn will accept results from the IELTS, the International English Language Testing System.