Application Timelines
Deadline for applications is 15th April. To be given full consideration for admission and any School funding opportunities, applications should be received by this date. In exceptional circumstances, and with the support of the Supervisor, late applications can be considered.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application following an assessment process which takes approximately eight weeks.

Registration periods are at the beginning of: September, January or May.

The School strongly recommends entering the programme in September, which is the beginning of the academic year.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application Procedures for PhD & MLitt in Sociology
In advance of making your application you should read through the entry requirements below, and make contact with a member of staff whose area of research you think most closely relates to your area of research to discuss your proposal. Here you will find their research details. It is important that you send them a clear outline of your draft research proposal, cv, and copy of transcripts. We strongly recommend that a member of staff reads and reviews your final proposal before you make your application to the School.

Documents Required for the Application Process
Cover letter outlining the candidate's reasons for choosing to apply to UCD School of Sociology and our research programme.
Comprehensive research proposal (a) - (e) below
(a) Abstract of your research proposal (no more than 250 words)
(b) Introduction that highlights originality and significance of your research and identifies a clear research question (no more than 500 words)
(c) Location of the proposed project within the current state of research and bibliography in the area (no more than 500 words)
(d) Outline of your research methodology (no more than 400 words)
(e) Year to year plan of the research (no more than 250 words)

Curriculum vitae / resumé.

Transcripts (notarised English translations, as well as the original transcript where relevant) giving details of all courses taken and examination marks obtained.

Two academic references from referees acquainted with the candidate's academic work and who are prepared to write on their behalf. References must be on headed paper and contain the referee's individual contact details. Referees must email their reference to [email protected]. References forwarded by applicants will not be accepted.

Writing Sample comprising one of the following: the candidate's completed Masters thesis, 2-3 draft chapters if thesis is not yet submitted, samples of published work or other relevant written work.

Evidence of English language proficiency. Candidates must demonstrate that they have met the UCD mimimum English Language Entry Requirements. A degree taken in English in a native English-speaking country is acceptable. A wide range of other qualifications, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are also accepted. Full information can be found here.

Copy of birth certificate or relevant pages from the candidate's passport to confirm their official name and date of birth (non UCD applicants only).
Applications will be evaluated by a School Selection Board on the basis of their excellence, originality and potential.

Submission
PhD applications are submitted via the UCD online application portal. Use the course finder to search for W149 (full-time PhD programme) or W150 (part-time PhD programme) and follow the steps online to apply.

MLitt applicants should contact the School via the details below before beginning the submission process.

Contact
[email protected]

Notes
THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS 15th APRIL

Applications will be considered from any suitably qualified applicants. Applicants, however, must make their own visa/consular arrangements to ensure that they are eligible to reside in Ireland for the duration of their studies. Useful information can be found on the UCD International Office website.

A Zoom or phone interview may be requested by the UCD School of Sociology as part of the admissions process.

Original copies of all application documents will be required prior to enrolment on PhD or MLitt programmes.

The School of Sociology reserves the right to revise these application procedures at any time.

Registration periods are at the beginning of: September, January or May.

Apply Here

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.