Sociology - MA

The MA in Sociology invites you to think systematically about the social world and how it is changing.

Overview

The programme provides a comprehensive overview of the foundational concerns and current debates in sociology, and offers a range of options for exploring applications in specific areas of research. You learn about current theoretical tools and develop skills in research and data analysis, which can be used in a range of professional fields. The programme is also an excellent basis for pursuing further research in sociology or more specialised or applied subjects.

Teaching and assessment

Assessment is by coursework and the dissertation.

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

• provide you with an advanced overview of debates in the history of sociology and contemporary sociological research
• extend your already-existing knowledge of major approaches within the academic study of sociology
• develop your skills in research design and data collection
• familiarise you with using secondary and qualitative data
• enable you to apply theories and methods of sociology in exploring specialist areas such as the environment, political change, urban development and feminism.

Careers

Building on Kent’s success as the region’s leading institution for student employability, we place considerable emphasis on you gaining specialist knowledge in your chosen subject alongside core transferable skills. We ensure that you develop the skills and competences that employers are looking for including: research and analysis; policy development and interpretation; independent thought; writing and presentation as well as time management and leadership skills. You also become fully involved in the professional research culture of the School. A postgraduate degree in the area of sociology is a particularly flexible and valuable qualification that can lead to many exciting opportunities and professions.

Our graduates go on to work for a range of organisations across the public, private and third sectors, and typically pursue careers which involve specialist research and data analysis skills. Recent graduates have worked for Government, NGOs, charities and think tanks as well as global media organisations.