Course summary

Our Sociology MA equips you with an awareness and understanding of the theoretical traditions and concepts that shape Sociology as a discipline. A dissertation and a variety of taught options provide you with an in-depth opportunity to engage with key sociological issues and approaches. Sociology at Newcastle has a solid track record of excellence in research-grounded postgraduate studies. This course gives you an understanding of the philosophical principles that underpin social inquiry and also equips you with the ability to integrate material across a range of disciplines. You will also gain: •knowledge in key areas of sociology including identity, citizenship, social transformation, social inequalities, sexuality, health and others •an understanding of the variety of philosophical principles and epistemological frameworks that underpin approaches to social inquiry •an understanding of the way social divisions are generated as structures of power and patterns of inequality, and how these are reproduced and transformed over time. Many of our graduates go on to study funded PhDs, others have pursued careers in: •the corporate and financial sectors •international organisations, such as the United Nations and the European Union •international and national non-governmental organisations •regulatory bodies •environmental agencies. Find out about our staff who will be teaching you. Delivery: Students take a mixture of compulsory and optional modules. You also complete a dissertation which will allow you to develop your ability to design, execute and write up a piece of original research in sociology. During your dissertation you will work with a dedicated member of staff who will be your dissertation supervisor. This course is taught and based on the Newcastle campus. Teaching sessions happen at different times of the day to benefit the needs of both full and part time students. Contact and independent study times will vary depending on the modules chosen. You are typically expected to attend an average of three to four modules per week and pursue weekly independent study. We aim for small groups of students which will enable constructive discussion and analysis. Some modules are seminar-based whilst others offer a combination of lectures and seminars. You are normally assessed through coursework and exam although modules may vary. You are also welcome to attend the Sociology Seminar Series. At these events national and international speakers present their work to members of the subject area. Facilities: The School provides a dedicated postgraduate computer room, postgraduate common room and postgraduate study rooms.