Sociology
Program Overview
The aim of the department is to help students gain the necessary skills to critically examine topics on society and social life. In accordance with the university’s philosophy of liberal education, students will also develop useful conceptual and analytical skills that they can use in different settings after graduation.
This program provides a solid foundation for students on the main concepts, theoretical approaches and research methods used in sociology. The basic education given in the department is supported by elective courses. These courses focus on a wide range of topics that reflect the expertise of faculty members such as: media and communication, family sociology, child development, educational sociology, cultural research, race / ethnicity, urban sociology, developmental sociology and political sociology.
On graduation, students will be equipped for work life. Some of our associates continue to pursue post-graduate programs at world-leading universities to pursue academic careers.
Qualification Awarded
PhD in Sociology
Admission Requirements
– Reference Letters, Letters of Recommendation
The Graduate School requires three reference letters for PhD applications. These should be by persons well qualified to speak from first-hand knowledge about the applicant’s potential for graduate study. Letters of recommendation must be submitted online*
–Statement of Purpose, which should not exceed 2,000 words, focusing on why the applicant wants to study at Koç University and in this particular program as well as explaining career objectives and research interests
– English Language, when applicants’ native language is not English, they must ensure to provide their official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL,) or any equivalent testing system. (Please see minimum required scores below). –
–ALES or GRE Score: (Please see minimum required scores below)
– Successful performance in a interview
| Ph.D. in Sociology Admission Requirements | ||
| Scores | With BA Degree | With MA Degree |
| ALES(Equal Weighed) | 80 | 70 |
| GRE (Quantitative) | 156 | 153 |
| GPA | 3.00 | 3.00 |
| TOEFL IBT | 80 | 80 |
| YDS | 80 | 80 |
| YÖKDİL | 80 | 80 |
Exchange Opportunities
The number of exchange program partners has increased rapidly over the years and the number of partner institutions has exceeded 100.
Examination Regulations, Assessment and Grading
Examinations Letter Grade Number Grade Equivalents
| A+ | 4.00 |
| A | 4.00 |
| A- | 3.70 |
| B+ | 3.30 |
| B | 3.00 |
| B- | 2.70 |
| C+ | 2.30 |
| C | 2.00 |
| C- | 1.70 |
| D+ | 1.30 |
| D | 1.00 |
| F | 0.00 |
Occupational Profiles and Access to Further Studies
Graduates of the Sociology Doctorate Program can take part in many national and international academic positions and relevant public institutions if they provide the necessary competencies. In addition, they can work in the private sector, especially in research and development companies.
Career Development Center, supports all Koç University students and graduates in career Development and Planning, in preparing graduate education plans, and in professional life decisions. For more information about the Career Development Center, please visit https://career.ku.edu.tr/en/