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.

Months of entry

September

Course content

"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)

We are strongly committed to providing the very best learning experience for all our students in a friendly, stimulating and research-led environment. You’ll be supported to gain the tools you need to critically examine sociological concepts, such as interest, modernity, inequality, globalisation, class, and gender.

You can choose from three pathways, allowing you to fit your studies to your interests or career plans:

- 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.

We keep a global perspective; using social theory and concepts to understand societies around the globe, comparing richer and poorer regions. On this UK master’s course, you’ll gain an in-depth knowledge of:

- 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

You’ll join a close-knit and diverse learning community, we offer an exceptional academic experience, with small-group teaching that allows you to explore topics in depth and plenty of support to ensure you achieve your potential.

You’ll graduate well placed to pursue careers in social research, public administration, or public policy in the public, private or voluntary sector. You will have also taken the first step towards a PhD in sociology and/or social policy."

Information for international students

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.

Fees and funding

A variety of scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your study, both from the University and from other organisations. Please check the website for more information.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

MSc
full time
12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
part time
24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name: Faculty of Social Sciences
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk

Phone: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Visit website

Apply

Sociology and Social Policy