The PhD in Applied Social Science is an advanced, interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge to conduct impactful research and address complex social issues. The program integrates theories and methodologies from various social science disciplines to equip students with the tools needed to analyze, interpret, and apply social science research to real-world problems. Emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical applications, the program prepares students for careers in academia, research institutions, policy analysis, and consultancy. Students will engage in comprehensive research across fields such as sociology, psychology, political science, and human geography, contributing to the development of evidence-based solutions and policies.
Course Duration
The PhD program typically spans 2 to 5 years, consisting of coursework, comprehensive examinations, and dissertation research. The first two to three years are focused on coursework and preliminary exams, while the remaining years are dedicated to dissertation research and defense. The exact duration may vary based on individual progress and research requirements.
Program Format: Online, Hybrid, or On-Campus
Admission Requirements
- Academic Qualifications: A Master’s degree in Social Science or a related field with a strong academic record. Exceptional candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science may be considered for direct entry.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s research potential and academic abilities.
- Statement of Purpose: A detailed statement outlining the applicant’s research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing a PhD in Applied Social Science.
- Sample of Research Work: Submission of a research paper or thesis, if available, to demonstrate research capability.
- Medium of Study English: Proof of English proficiency if the previous degree was not completed in English, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the PhD in Applied Social Science program are well-prepared for a variety of high-level career paths, including:
- Academia: University faculty positions in social science disciplines, including teaching and research roles.
- Research Institutions: Research positions in institutions focusing on social science research and policy analysis.
- Policy Analysis: Roles in government agencies or non-profit organizations that involve developing and analyzing social policies.
- Consultancy: Expert consulting roles in areas such as social program evaluation, strategic planning, and community development.
- International Organizations: Positions in global institutions working on social issues, development programs, and international policies.
Program Benefits
- Expert Faculty: Access to leading scholars and practitioners with expertise across various social science disciplines.
- Research Opportunities: Opportunities to engage in innovative research with potential for high-impact publications and presentations at conferences.
- Advanced Training: Comprehensive training in social science theories, research methodologies, and practical applications.
- Professional Development: Access to workshops, seminars, and networking events to support career development and professional growth.
- Resources and Facilities: State-of-the-art research facilities, libraries, and data resources to support rigorous academic and empirical research.
- Collaborative Environment: A supportive academic community that encourages interdisciplinary research and collaboration with peers and faculty.
- Global Perspective: Exposure to international social issues and the opportunity to contribute to global social policies and practices.
Core Courses
- Advanced Research Methods in Social Science: Techniques and methodologies for conducting research, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches.
- Theoretical Foundations in Social Science: Exploration of major theories and conceptual frameworks across social science disciplines.
- Applied Social Research: Application of research methods to real-world social problems and evaluation of social programs.
- Social Policy Analysis: Examination of social policies, their impacts, and the processes of policy formulation and implementation.
- Interdisciplinary Social Science Perspectives: Integration of theories and methods from various social science fields to address complex social issues.
- Quantitative Data Analysis: Advanced statistical methods and techniques for analyzing social science data.
- Qualitative Data Analysis: Methods for qualitative research, including interviews, case studies, and ethnographic research.
- Dissertation Research Seminar: A seminar focused on supporting students through the development, conduct, and presentation of their dissertation research.
Achievements of this Program
- Expertise in Applied Social Science: Mastery of advanced theories, methodologies, and practical applications in social science.
- Advanced Research Skills: Proficiency in conducting and applying research to address real-world social challenges.
- Academic Contributions: Publication of research findings in leading journals and contributions to the field of social science.
- Professional Networking: Development of a professional network within academic, policy, and research communities.
- Leadership and Impact: Preparation for leadership roles and the ability to influence social policies and practices through evidence-based research.
Please go to the admission application to enroll in this program if you feel you are a good fit for the course.
