Location:

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Sociology

Program Overview

Program Description:

Today's modern societies require flexible social scientists who are able to generate relevant knowledge about important social and cultural concerns. Addressing these concerns requires a perspective based on insights from fundamental social theory joined with substantive theories developed by various social science disciplines. It also demands thorough and state-of-the-art methodological understanding and skills. The research master's programme in Social Sciences is a two-year master's programme for excellent and motivated students who wish to pursue a career in social science research in an academic setting or in private or governmental research institutes. The programme offers training in a trans-disciplinary research approach in which boundaries between quantitative and qualitative methodology are actively bridged. It trains students to conduct research along both empirical-analytical and interpretive lines; to appreciate both quantitative and qualitative methods; and to apply both actor-centred and structure-oriented perspectives. Historical processes and spatial distributions, local detail and global context are also taken into account. The programme is divided into two tracks, each designed to cater to the interests of diverse academic backgrounds and interests: - The quantitative-empirical track provides training in collection and statistical analysis of data sets and other related research methodologies. - The qualitative-interpretive track provides training in in-depth interviewing, discourse and visual analysis, ethnographic fieldwork The central idea of the programme is that students work closely with highly qualified tutors from the University of Amsterdam (UvA). These scholars will act as tutors for the research master's students during the two years of study.

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Technical and Career Institutions