MA in Sociology by Research

Aims

Introduction

In addition to the Department's taught course route, it is also possible for students to undertake their MA in Sociology by Research Dissertation. Students taking this route would be expected to undertake a rigorous piece of independent research working closely with their supervisor (meeting at least twice per semester).

We offer MA by Research courses on a part-time or full-time basis and there is also the option to study on campus or at a distance. We encourage distance learners to attend campus for the induction period (generally in September) but otherwise, all supervision would take place remotely via video-conferencing. Whichever mode of attendance you choose, the final certificate will be the same (i.e., MA by Research in Sociology).

Departmental areas of expertise

Supervision can be drawn from the Department's expanding range of expertise in:

• Criminology,
• Conversation Analysis
• Social Media
• Sociology of Health and the Body
• Science and Technology Studies
• Gender
• Anomalous Experience
• Culture and Consumption

Although this is not a taught course students do have the option of taking modules and research methods training where appropriate, although this is not compulsory.

The thesis

The 25,000 word thesis must be completed within a 12 month period (Full time) and demonstrate good evidence of the candidate's ability to critically investigate a specific field of study, using solid and appropriate research methodology, written to a high standard of presentation.

Course length

Full time - 1 year
Part time - 2 years

Distance learning

Full time - 1 year
Part time - 2 years

Entry

Entry requirements

This is particularly appropriate for students with a focused interest in a particular area of sociology, who have already developed a firm basis for their chosen research topic.

Those who have, or are soon to complete, a degree in Sociology or a similar discipline, or whose degree major contained a significant proportion of Sociology units, are eligible to apply.

Graduate Students with English as a second language

For applicants whose native language is not English, please see the English language requirements. We do accept other English Language Tests. We also strongly recommend that applicants attend the University's Pre-sessional English language courses organised by the International Pathway College.

Students who have successfully completed a recent undergraduate degree at a UK University are exempt from the English Language requirement.

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.

Applying

Application procedures

If you wish to apply for an MA in Sociology by Research you can apply online and send all your documentation electronically. It is possible to save your application half way through the process and come back to it at a later stage.

Find out more about applying.

Apply now

Apply now (distance learning) 

Fees

Information on fees is available on our fees and expenses page for postgraduate research students.