Sociology Ph.D. Learning Outcomes

PLO 1. Core Knowledge

• Knowledge of major theoretical traditions in the discipline
• Knowledge of intellectual currents and debates important to the history and development of sociology
• Knowledge of at least two substantive areas in the discipline

PLO 2. Research Methods and Analysis

• Know how to frame an empirical research question guided by theory
• Be familiar with the range of methods used by sociologists, including ethnography, surveys, comparative/historical analysis, experimental research, network analysis, demographic methods, etc.
• Examine the strengths and limitations of different research methods
• Carry out methodological sound research
• Understand and follow research ethics

PLO 3. Pedagogy

• Draw on a range of pedagogical techniques and approaches
• Address common classroom challenges
• Design lessons and assignments
• Lead discussions
• Respond to diverse student learning needs
• Effectively assess student work
• Mentor students

PLO 4. Scholarly Communication

• Produce writing appropriate for a scholarly publication
• Structure an argument and support it with evidence
• Review and cogently summarize relevant literatures
• Effectively present research

PLO 5. Professionalism

• Contribute to the profession, department, and university
• Publish scholarly work
• Develop profession networks
• Present scholarly work publicly
• Carry out research responsibly
• Participate in professional meeting
• Edit and evaluate others’ work
• Adhere to tenets of academic integrity, including those specified in the ASA Code of Ethics
• Understand and adhere to appropriate norms of academic collegiality

PLO 6. Independent Research

• Develop at least two areas of research specialization
• Develop own research in accordance with the standards in the field
• Produce scholarship that will be suitable for publication in profession avenues

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