The Department of Sociology emphasizes both theoretical scholarship and creativity and substantive empirical research. It encourages a range of different analytic perspectives and maintains strength in both quantitative and qualitative methods. In addition to formal course work, the department offers students a chance to participate in collaborative research projects through its apprenticeship program and organized research workshops. This gives students an early research experience, and leads NYU faculty and students to publish an unusually high number of co-authored papers. Faculty members also work with students individually or in small groups, tailoring programs to students' interests.
Students also have access to the department's extensive computer resources.
The department also organizes an active program of colloquia, conferences, and speakers, and graduate students themselves organize a conference each year. To prepare students interested in careers as college and university teachers, the department offers a special program in the teaching of Sociology. This includes seminars and a graduate program of practical experience in which students work as teaching assistants with increasing levels of responsibility. The Department of Sociology requires all graduate students to maintain a grade average of at least B or better and to make good progress in order to remain in good standing. All students must complete at least 12 points per calendar year in letter-graded work in the Department of Sociology until they complete the Ph.D. comprehensive examinations.