The MA in Sociology centres on developing an understanding of the way in which the contemporary social world works.

Location:

Sheffield, United Kingdom

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Sociology

Program Overview

Program Description:

The MA in Sociology centres on developing an understanding of the way in which the contemporary social world works. The course provides an in depth analysis of the relationship individuals share with society. At its core, it is concerned with exploring contemporary social problems at local, national, international, and global levels.

The primary objective of the course is to develop, through research and teaching, the ability to think critically about the key problems currently confronting societies. In doing so, the course seeks to build upon important contemporary research in sociology to enhance students’ ability to conduct research as well as to engage in critical analysis of sociological areas of interest. Through this approach to teaching and learning, students will acquire a thorough knowledge of the core theoretical sociological concepts alongside the abilities necessary to engage in social science research and study.

The modules provided are driven by the leading research of our academics. This means that the content is informed by the current debates and concerns surrounding sociological issues. Teaching is conducted through a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, small-group work, and problem solving. A great deal of importance is placed on the individual aspects of learning, with the MA course expected to develop students’ abilities to research and engage with the area of study.

The course is based around three main aspects. The first is a series of core modules aimed at covering the foundational theoretical and methodological concepts and approaches in sociology. This is then built upon through chosen modules; these focus on substantive and contemporary sociological topics and are informed by the research-led teaching of the department. The course culminates in the dissertation module.

Who Is This Course Ideal For?

The course is aimed at those who are looking to further their understanding of the social world, wish to think systematically about the social world, and wish to explore the key social changes currently taking place as well as what those changes might mean for societies in the future.

The course is an excellent choice for those with a background in sociology. It will also consolidate familiarity with the discipline for those from related academic and professional fields, but without specialised knowledge of sociology.

Assessment:

Assessment can vary across modules between a combination of coursework (essays and portfolio work) and formal examination. Students will also complete a dissertation of 15,000 words which makes up a third of the course. This provides the opportunity, under one-to-one supervision, to focus in depth on a topic of individual choice.

180 credits are required for graduation. 105 of these are compulsory modules, 15 are optional modules, and 60 credits are allocated to the dissertation.

Tuition Fees:

Tuition fees for full-time students in 2014-15: £5,750 per annum for Home/EU students and £14,500 for overseas students.

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

We are pleased to offer the Sheffield Scholarship 2016 to all US students commencing a Taught Masters programme in September 2016. The scholarships are: • £2,000 if your tuition fees are between £14,500 and £16,500 • £2,500 for each student paying fees of £16,501 and upwards We also offer scholarships of 50% of the course fee which will be offered on the basis of academic merit.

Financial Aid:

No