Frequently Asked Questions
Program Overview
I’m interested in Penn State’s Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs in Sociology or Criminology. Where can I learn more?
You can visit our Sociology Graduate Program page or Criminology Graduate Program page, depending on your area of interest.
How long does the Ph.D. program typically take?
The program often takes five years for those entering with a bachelor’s degree or four years for those entering with a master’s degree.
Does the University Park campus offer a terminal master's degree program (i.e., a student earns only their master's)?
No, the Department of Sociology and Criminology at Penn State University Park does not offer a terminal master’s degree. However, all of our students can earn a Master’s Along-the-Way as they fulfill the requirements for the Ph.D.
Is a bachelor's degree in Sociology or Criminology required?
While a bachelor’s degree is required, our programs are interdisciplinary; you can apply with any undergraduate major. Most of our students have undergraduate degrees in sociology, psychology, political science, criminology, criminal justice, or education.
Can I transfer credits that I've taken in another graduate program?
Possibly. Transfer requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
What kind of jobs do people get with a Ph.D. from this program?
Most of our graduates obtain academic positions. Others work as researchers in government agencies, in the private sector, and for think tanks and nonprofits.
Admissions Process
What are the graduate application requirements?
To apply to our graduate program, you will need:
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume/curriculum vitae (CV)
- Personal statement
- Writing sample
- Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
- Official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) – for international applicants only
How long should a personal statement be? What details should I include?
While there is no word limit, typical personal statements are less than two single spaced pages. It is key to share research interests, highlight research experience, and demonstrate why Penn State is a good fit for you.
What counts as a writing sample?
A term paper or thesis are examples of written work. Due to the nature of these assignments, writing samples vary in length.
How do I submit my GRE and TOEFL or IELTS scores?
Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are required from all applicants. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are required from international applicants only, as the language of instruction at Penn State is English.
Scores should be sent electronically from Educational Testing Service (ETS) to the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School. Please use institution code 2660 for submission.
Can GRE scores be waived?
No, GRE scores are required of all applicants.
Can TOEFL or IELTS scores be waived?
Yes, if an applicant has a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a United States institution or other country on this exemption list, they do not have to submit the language scores.
Do I need to identify a graduate faculty supervisor before applying?
A faculty supervisor (also referred to as a mentor or research adviser) does not have to be contacted prior to applying. They are assigned during a student’s first year in the program, based on the student’s research interests and the faculty member’s availability.
I’m ready to apply. Where can I find the application?
If you have read the Graduate School requirements and are ready to apply, you may proceed to the application. For the Fall 2025 admissions cycle, the application portal opened on Thursday, August 8, 2024.
Can I request a waiver for the application fee?
No, the Graduate School does not waive application fees. A nonrefundable application fee is required for degree admission and postbaccalaureate credit certification programs. Your application will not be processed in the Office of Graduate Enrollment Services without receipt of the application fee.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline for Fall 2025 will be Sunday, December 8, 2024, 11:59 PM (EST).
When will I receive an update about the status of my application?
While we aim to make our first formal offers by early February, the process sometimes takes substantially longer. Therefore, in advance, we cannot guarantee a date by which all application status notifications will be made.
When is the deadline for confirming that I accept my admittance offer and will join the program?
By April 15.
Funding Package
I need financial support. How does funding work?
All students admitted to our program are fully funded for 4-5 years. The funding package includes full tuition as well as a monthly stipend associated with a graduate research or teaching assistantship. It also covers 80% of student health insurance. We also have a strong record of providing summer support.
Are there funds available outside of the standard funding package?
Yes, funds may be available for those with outstanding qualifications and/or achievements. Review the graduate funding page from the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School for more information.
Additional Questions
I have a question that is not listed in the sections above. Who should I contact?
Please reach out to Sierra Waite, the Graduate Program Coordinator, via email at sbw5348@psu.edu. or via phone at 814-865-3455. Preferably, send her an email and she will reply to your message when she’s available. Alternatively, leave a voicemail and she will return your call.