| Study Location | Kyiv |
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| Academic Field | C5 Sociology |
| Type | Postgraduate, Full time (on-line study is available) |
| Nominal Duration | 4 years (60 ECTS) |
| Study Language | English |
| Awards | Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology |
| Entry qualification | Master's Degree required. Compulsory entrance exam. The entry qualification documents are accepted in English. In most cases you can request a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original. You must take the original & legalized (according to the international agreements) entry qualification documents along with you when you finally enter the university. |
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| Territory requirements | Citizens of the Russia, Iran, Belarus and North Korea are not allowed. |
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| Language Requirements | English (B1/B2) |
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Entrance Exam Description
Subjects of the exam: English Language, specialty exam.
Program Structure
The PhD programme is research-centred and designed to develop scholarly independence and disciplinary expertise:
1. Advanced Theoretical Foundations
Doctoral candidates build on existing knowledge with deep engagement in sociological theory, including: Contemporary social theory and interdisciplinary approaches; Critical analysis of social structures and cultural systems; Research paradigms and epistemological frameworks.
This theoretical foundation enables scholars to approach complex social phenomena with clarity and academic rigour.
2. Research Methodology and Tools
Students gain competence in both quantitative and qualitative research methodology: Advanced statistical and analytical methods; Qualitative research and ethnographic techniques; Data collection, coding and interpretation; Mixed-methods design.
These research tools prepare candidates to conduct independent, methodologically sound investigations.
3. Independent Research & Seminar Participation
PhD candidates actively engage in: Research seminars and academic workshops; Participation in scientific conferences and publication processes; Collaboration with faculty peers on interdisciplinary projects.
These activities broaden scholarly dialogue and support professional scientific development.
4. Dissertation Research
The core of the PhD programme is the dissertation project — an original and significant piece of research that: Addresses a substantial sociological question; Demonstrates theoretical and empirical rigour; Contributes new knowledge to the field; Meets international scholarly standards.
Candidates write and defend their dissertations before an academic council, showing mastery of content, methodology and scientific communication.
Overview
The program focused on developing scholars capable of conducting advanced interdisciplinary research that deals with social structures, dynamics, institutions and transformations in contemporary society.
This programme prepares researchers to generate theoretical insights and empirical evidence that can inform public policy, organisational strategy, social innovation and academic discourse. Doctoral candidates engage in independent research, critical analysis and scholarly communication within a global scientific context.
Career Opportunities
Graduates holding a PhD in Sociology are equipped for high-level research, academic and professional roles, including:
- University Lecturer / Researcher – conduct teaching and scholarly research;
- Senior Social Analyst – shape research and policy development in public sector agencies;
- Data and Social Research Specialist – lead analytical work in think-tanks and research centres;
- Consultant in Social Development and Public Policy – provide evidence-based advice to national and international organisations;
- Director of Social Programmes – design and assess community or institutional interventions;
- Independent Research Consultant – conduct commissioned studies for NGOs, government or private sector.
These roles are relevant in academia, public administration, international organisations, NGOs, research institutions, corporate strategy departments and consulting firms where expertise in social analysis and research is in demand.