PhD in Sociology

General Objectives of the Course

This study cycle is an advanced training program aimed at developing scientific research skills and high professional qualifications within the scope of sociology and interdisciplinary dialogue between this and other scientific areas. It is based on the theoretical and methodological matrix of sociology, developing broader or more specific thematic areas, according to the current nature of research themes and the analytical interest demonstrated by certain more contextualized social processes. Its fundamental objective is to contribute to the progress of theoretical, methodological and empirical knowledge in domains of sociology, with particular emphasis on knowledge of the Portuguese, European and Latin American reality, and in particular with regard to the dynamics of social, political and cultural transformation of these societies, as well as the promotion of conditions for applying this knowledge in contexts of administrative and technical intervention.

Admission Requirements

1. The following may apply for access to the study cycle leading to a doctorate degree: a) Holders of a master's degree or legal equivalent; b) Holders of a bachelor's degree, holders of a particularly relevant academic or scientific curriculum that is recognized as attesting the ability to carry out this cycle of studies by the scientific council of the Faculty of Economics; c) Holders of an academic, scientific or professional curriculum that is recognized as attesting the ability to carry out this cycle of studies by the scientific council of the Faculty of Economics. 2 - The recognition referred to in paragraphs b) and c) of paragraph 1 has the effect only of access to the study cycle leading to the doctorate degree and does not grant its holder the equivalence to the master's degree or the recognition of that degree.

Candidates should check the admission requirements available on this site, in addition to the information provided here.

Professional Goals

Doctorates in Sociology are qualified to perform multiple and diverse functions within the scope of public administration, companies, associations and non-governmental organizations, as well as teaching and research institutions, in areas related to social policy, including local policies, social inequalities, justice, social integration, heritage management, teaching and school administration, employment, health and culture.

Mode of Study

Attendance full-time, face-to-face during the day. Academic sessions take place on Fridays and Saturdays

Teaching / Evaluation language(s)

Portuguese

Examination Regulations, Assessment and Grading

The regulations of the University of Coimbra on 3rd cycles are applied here, particularly the UC Academic Regulation and the FEUC Assessment and Examinations Regulations.

Learning Objectives and Intended Skills

Acquisition of advanced knowledge in different areas of the study cycle, complementary to that acquired in Master's degrees in Sociology or similar areas. - Development of skills, abilities and research methods associated with a scientific field. - Development of the ability to independently conceive, design and carry out original research work, with the quality imposed by international standards. - Development of the ability to critically analyze and synthesize new ideas and perspectives. - Development of the ability to communicate with peers, the rest of the academic community and society, in the student's area of specialty.

Recognition of Prior Learning

The recognition of prior learning is carried out in accordance with the Academic Regulations of the University of Coimbra.

Qualification Requirements and Regulations

Decree‑Law No. 74/2006 of 24 March, as currently in force.

Graduation Requirements

This Doctoral Program, lasting 4 years (8 semesters), includes a teaching component in the first year. Attendance and approval in seminars in the first academic year are a necessary condition to take the Qualification Test at the end of the first year, within which they will present a draft thesis, to be assessed by a jury, and on whose approval access to the preparation of a thesis, which will be defended in public tests, depends. This Program leads to a doctorate in Sociology from the University of Coimbra.

The approval of the curricular units in the first academic year (Sociological Research Methodology, Advanced Methodologies, Advanced Sociological Theories, Thesis Project, one Specialised Research Seminar and one option) totalizing 60 ECTS of this study cycle, will award a Advanced Specialization Course Diploma in Sociology.

Access to Further Studies

PhD holders are in a position to access a post-doctorate, particularly in the area of Sociology.

Study Programme

Sociology

Academic year
2026-2027

Course Type
3rd Cycle Studies

DGES Code: 9344

Qualification Awarded: Doutor

Duration: 8 Semester(s)

ECTS Credits: 240.0

Annual Fee: 2000.0

Applications

Call for Applications

3rd Cycle Course

Accreditations

Agência de Avaliação e Acreditação do Ensino Superior: Nº Registo: ACEF/2526/0901497; 2026-07-31 a 2032-07-30
Direcção Geral de Ensino Superior: Nº Registo: R/A-Cr 84/2010/AL03; 2026-04-08