MSc Sociology
The Department of Sociology is held within the School of Social Science. All of our degrees provide thorough advanced level training in the principles of social science with a wide choice of specialised subjects.
MSc Sociology provides you with theoretical and methodological concepts in sociology to think critically about issues affecting contemporary society.
The MSc Sociology provides an in-depth understanding and training in the use of sociological theory and methodology, with a key focus on the distinct research specialisms of staff in the Department of Sociology.
You will examine classical sociological theory (Marx, Weber, Nietzsche) before moving on to more recent social thought to develop an advanced working knowledge of the most important theoretical tools available to professional social scientists today.
You will also learn the latest advanced qualitative methods employed by social scientists, including participant observation, qualitative interviewing, focus groups, diaries, photography and film, and archived data sources.
In addition to the core theoretical and methodological concepts and debates in sociology, this MSc programme offers a series of courses that reflect the department’s expertise and current research, in topics such as globalisation, peace and conflict studies, comparative European societies and gendered and sexual violence.
You will also complete your dissertation on an approved topic chosen by you in consultation with a member of the Department faculty. The dissertation gives you the opportunity to draw upon the knowledge and skills you gain on the programme by undertaking a critical analysis of a relevant sociological topic.
The MSc Sociology is designed for you if you have a background in sociology, or if you wish to extend your knowledge of the subject to the postgraduate level. The programme is also suitable as a conversion degree for students with little or no previous experience of Sociology.
We will endeavour to make all course options available; however, these may be subject to timetabling and other constraints. Please see our InfoHub pages for further information.
Further Information about tuition fees and the cost of living in Aberdeen
Eligible self-funded international Masters students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Visit our Funding Database to find out more and see our full range of scholarships.
Examination is exclusively by means of course work and continuous assessment. Students will be permitted one resubmission of failed work, but no resubmission of the dissertation. For the award of the MSc in both full and part time modes, there is a requirement also to complete a 15,000 word dissertation under supervision from the course team.
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Applicants for admission will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:1 standard from a recognised university or body.
Applicants without this qualification may be admitted subject to having an alternative qualification, or an approved level of work experience appropriate to the field of study. Also taken into careful consideration is the trajectory of results, an applicant without an overall 2.1 but with 2.1 results in their final two years of study may be admitted.
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To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
Non government organisations
Charities
Private and public sectors
Research
Academia
Consultancy
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. Staff changes will occur from time to time; please see our InfoHub pages for further information.
The Department of Sociology is held within the School of Social Science. All of our degrees provide thorough advanced level training in the principles of social science with a wide choice of specialised subjects.