MSc sociology: Global Inequalities and Comparative Social Policy

The course is aimed at graduates who have had some training in the social sciences, and who wish to extend, develop and deepen their knowledge and skill base. Candidates who wish to establish a career in the social scientific exploration of global issues will be well served.

The MSc Sociology: Global Inequalities and Comparative Social Policy consists of 180 credits, consisting of 4 taught modules (combination of 40 and 20 credits), and a Dissertation (60 credits). All modules are compulsory.

Each of the modules are specifically designed to reflect current developments and thinking in sociological approaches to global inequalities, social policy, theoretical frameworks, contemporary issues in the socio­ political global arena, and introductory and advanced research methodological skills.

MODULE INFORMATION

The course is structured around four taught modules, and one Dissertation module: ‘Global Inequalities’, ‘Comparative Social Policy’ (40 credits each), and Research Methods 1 and 2 (20 credits each).

The first two provide you with a strong foundation in a theoretically and empirically informed analysis of inequality, and the impacts and consequences of social policy across a number of related themes, for example: health, poverty, culture and ethnicity, class, disability, gender and employment.

The Research Methods 1 and 2 modules (Introduction to Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods and Advanced Research Methodologies) provide a robust preparation and training in the types of social research methods required for carrying out academic forms of sociological research.

The Dissertation module allows you to utilise a range of conceptual and analytical skills in the production of an in-depth piece of work, guided by academic staff.

Students who take this course will typically be in a favourable position in the postgraduate employment market in the general social sciences area. Careers in research, non­governmental organisations, charities, social work, teaching, both in the UK and overseas are common destinations for our students.

The MSc Sociology: Global Inequalities and Comparative Social Policy uses a variety of teaching methods including: interactive lectures, practical classes, workshops, virtual learning environments, seminars, problem based learning group work, tutorials with supervisors, where you will study in an informative, engaging, stimulating and participative environment.

All postgraduate modules encourage you to develop a range of communication skills (both written and oral) helping you to grow increasingly familiar with the disciplinary content of your course, and become confident in developing a range of analytical and practical tools. The teaching and learning promotes critical reflection and self-evaluation, learning new ideas while broadening your student experiences.

You will be assessed through a range of formative and summative methods, including essays, case studies, informal presentations and report writing, which take account of the acquisition of relevant knowledge and understanding and the development of academic style and practical skills. Accordingly, assessment procedures will take account of your needs in terms of your newly acquired knowledge and understanding, as well as developing various transferrable skills which will prepare you for suitable entry into various professional roles.

Fees

2018/19 tuition fees for this course

Tuition fees for all courses which last more than one academic year are payable on an annual basis, except where stated.

There will be an annual inflationary increase in tuition fees for this course where the course lasts more than one academic year. The increase will reflect cost inflation in the University. Any inflationary increase will be no more than 3.5% for each year of your study. The increase will be calculated on the previous year’s tuition fees and not the tuition fees at the start of the course. 

Government loans of up to £10,280 are available for some postgraduate Master’s courses for students starting their course from 1 August 2018. Loans are subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

The rules around course eligibility mean that in some cases it may depend on how you are studying (full-time or part-time) as to whether you can apply for a postgraduate loan. To check whether your course is eligible, you can email the Student Fees Team or call 01227 923 948

Read more about postgraduate masters student loans.

Students may self-fund their course or a sponsor may fund or part-fund. Bursaries, scholarships and fee discounts may also be available.

Further information

• See information about financial support available for postgraduate studies
• If you would like information about paying your fees, please contact finance@canterbury.ac.uk
• For specific fee queries, please contact fees@canterbury.ac.uk

Additional course costs

Although we aim to minimise any additional costs to students over and above the course tuition fee, there will be some additional costs which students are expected to meet.

Costs applicable to all students

General principle policy

The University’s general principles policy for additional course fees are set out here

Applications for this course can be completed online .

For further information, please read our guidance on how to apply online .

Further information about the application process and what you will need to do to prepare.

Once the application is submitted, the programme director will identify those students who meet the criteria and they will arrange for either a telephone or direct face to face interview, depending on the context at the time.