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Sociology

Programme Structure

The MSc Sociology offers an advanced introduction to the subject, either as a conclusion to students' sociological studies at an advanced level or as a preparation for further sociological research by dissertation.  It aims to develop a critical understanding of the specific academic discipline of sociology, including both a profound knowledge of empirical studies and sophistication in the use of theoretical skills.  It has a flexible structure, with 80 credits allocated to optional courses.

Its specific objectives as a sociological training are to develop students' knowledge of the theoretical and analytical approaches in sociology, while also enabling different students to focus in depth upon a particular area of sociology.  Within this context, they are given the resources to produce a sustained account of research in their chosen area, thereby developing their ability to present research results clearly and coherently.  For some students, this will provide the first-year grounding for a PhD, in which the dissertation operates as a literature review for their final thesis.  Students are also given training in quantitative and qualitative methods of social research.

Core courses - There are two ten-week course running from October -  December (Semester 1).

  • Current Issues in Social Theory
  • Methods of Social Research

Optional courses - These are courses in which students can choose their preferences, running in ten-week sessions.  Students choose four optional courses, at least one from the first semester and at least one from the second semester.  Students may choose a third optional course from other Postgraduate taught courses throughout the School of Social and Political Sciences.  Altogether, they should complete 180 credits, including the dissertation.

  • The Disabling Society (semester 1)
  • Religion in Society (semester 2) (not running 2011/12)
  • Sexualities and Society (semester2)
  • Gender and Society (semester 1)
  • Racism and Modernity (semester 2)
  • Class and Stratification (semester 2)
  • Introduction to Social Theory (college-level course, semester 2)
  • Another one semester course in the School of Social and Political Sciences e.g. Chinese Politics

Dissertation - students select their dissertation early in the second semester (January) and proceed to develop this alongside their other courses.  After the examinations in April-May they give full-time attention to the dissertation, until submission at end of August.