Course summary
"On this master’s in Sociology and Social Policy, you’ll take a research-first approach, with a thorough methods education, to understand the social theories on which sociology and social policy are based. You’ll join a community of academics at the forefront of research in Social Sciences.
- Our Social Work and Social Policy research is ranked 5th nationally for impact (Latest, Research Excellence Framework, 2021)
- Substantive pathway - Focussing on fundamental concepts of sociology and social policy and on how these relate to contemporary policy issues.
- International Social Policy - Focussing on understanding global social inequality and policy responses with a grounding in governance.
- Research methods pathway - Students who wish to obtain thorough quantitative and qualitative methods training should enrol in the Research methods pathway.
- the main themes and debates in sociology and how to use them to analyse social issues
- the main issues in the philosophy of social science
- conceptual debates in social policy
- qualitative and quantitative research methods, and data analysis techniques
- designing and conducting independent research in sociology or social policy
Modules
Modules will be determined by pathway choice. You must study the following modules in year 1: International Social Policy, Philosophy of Social Science Research, Research Design and Practice, Understanding Modernity, Understanding Social Change. You must also choose from the following modules in year 1: Ageing, Health and Well-being, Comparative Public Administration, Criminal Behaviour - Applied Perspectives, Criminal Justice: Policy and Practice, Critical Issues in Global Health: Concepts and Case Studies, Demographic Change, Ageing & Globalisation, Perspectives in Gerontology, Qualitative Methods 1, Qualitative Methods 2, Quantitative Methods 1, Survey Design, Understanding Population Change.
Assessment method
We’ll assess you through: • essays • oral presentations • group projects • a dissertation
How to apply
International applicants
If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate your English ability by meeting our Band C requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in all components. For information on other accepted English language tests, please see our website.
Entry requirements
First- or upper second-class degree or an equivalent standard in other qualifications approved by the University in a relevant discipline such as Sociology, Social Policy, Citizenship, Politics, Political Economy or other Social Science subjects.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
Sponsorship information
A variety of scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations. Please check the website for more information.
Provider information
University of Southampton
Highfield
Southampton
SO17 1BJ