MA Sociology (by research)
Join a vibrant community of researchers and explore the key questions facing society today.
| Length | Start dates (semester dates) | |
|---|---|---|
| MA by research |
1 year full-time Distance learning available |
September |
Our MA Sociology (by research) is perfect for students with a focused interest in a particular area of sociology, who have already developed a firm basis for their chosen research topic.
Your research
For a Masters by research, you will be expected to undertake a rigorous piece of independent research.
You'll complete a 25,000-word thesis over 12 months (full-time) or 24 months (part-time). Through this thesis, you'll demonstrate good evidence of your ability to critically investigate a specific field of study, use a solid and appropriate research methodology and write to a high standard of presentation.
Our supervisors offer a range of expertise across:
- criminology
- conversation analysis
- social media
- sociology of health and the body
- science and technology studies
- gender
- anomalous experience
- culture and consumption.
1st for research impact
and 4th in the UK for research overall in Sociology according to the Times Higher Education’s ranking of the latest REF results (2021).
World Top 150
for Sociology in the QS World University Ranking by subject 2024.
Funding
Explore the funding available for our postgraduate research degrees.
Supervision
Find a supervisor who shares your passion
Training and support
Your progress throughout your degree will be guided by your supervisor, who will help you to hone your focus and deliver specialised research. Your supervisor will be supported by a Thesis Advisory Panel to monitor your progress towards completion and offer advice where necessary.
You will take part in transferable skills training which will help you develop competence in communication skills, career management, networking, team building and personal effectiveness. You will receive six days of training per year, selected from the transferable skills courses offered by the University. The Department also run courses in sociology subject-specific transferable skills.
Course location
This course is run by the Department of Sociology, based in the Law and Sociology Building on Campus East. Most of your training and supervision meetings will take place here, though your research may take you further afield.
Within the Department of Sociology, you will also have access to a designated postgraduate study space which offers desk, social and kitchen areas.
If you are a postgraduate researcher undertaking your programme by distance learning, most supervisions will take place remotely using video-conferencing (eg Zoom). However, there is an expectation that you will attend campus for five consecutive days per year (full-time) or biannually (part-time).
Careers and skills
Many of our graduates go on to have successful careers in academia and research.
A combination of outstanding teaching and a supportive collegiate environment enables you to develop your creativity and full intellectual potential. The opportunities offered in the Department of Sociology develop important transferable skills which will be valued in the jobs market.
Our dedicated careers team offer specific support including a programme of professional researcher development, careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions. These will help you to build up your employability portfolio, skills and experience.
Entry requirements
Those who have, or are soon to obtain, a 2:1 or equivalent undergraduate degree (or their international equivalent) in a relevant subject. We are willing to consider your application if you have lower qualifications, especially if you have high marks in relevant modules and/or appropriate professional experience.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability. We also strongly recommend that applicants attend the University's Pre-sessional English language courses organised by the International Pathway College.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, or want to enquire informally about the suitability of the course for your interests and purposes, please contact us.
Check your English language requirements
Applying
Apply for the MA Sociology (by research)
Apply for the MA Sociology (by research) (distance learning)
Take a look at the supporting documents you may need for your application.
Find out more about how to apply.
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