MSc Sociology

The MSc Sociology programme enables students to gain an advanced and critical understanding of how to apply sociological theories and perspectives to contemporary issues and social transformations.  Through a range of engaging learning approaches, students are invited to explore the interrelationships of power, social divisions, social diversity and social inequality and their application to social action and public sociology. 

To do this, the programme draws directly on active research specialisms in the Department of Sociology (gender, violence and abuse; health and social theory; education and inequalities; and communities and social justice).  This is supported by developing students’ own advanced understanding and application of approaches to researching these topics.

As the course progresses you will develop your own approaches to research, taking into consideration the methodological, epistemological and ethical issues inherent in sociological research, activism and public engagement in contemporary societies.

The Public Sociology module examines how sociological research and theory has been used to produce social change. Sociologists share how their research findings have been adopted by policymakers, practitioners, and people with lived experience to address issues such as sexual and gender-based violence, racism, the rights of prisoners, disability inclusion, loneliness, and the climate crisis in different contexts.

The Placement module offers work-based experiential learning opportunities with a partner organisation. In previous years, partnership have included the Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre and Women in Need.

Your dissertation project offers an opportunity to become an expert in your area of interest. Previous students have published their dissertation work in academic journals or used their research to build a network of policy contacts that has proved beneficial to their career.

Careers

After studying with us, students have gone on to pursue careers in education, healthcare, the non-profit sector, public services, the civil service, local government and academic or policy research.