Sociology and Global Inequality

Overview

This Master of Science focuses on one of the most significant issues in the contemporary world: social inequalities. Through a range of research-led courses, this MSc explores their roots, their cultural, religious and political manifestations. The MSc also enables students to develop theoretical abilities, methodological skills, and critical thinking about social inequalities and the ways in which they can be challenged. As such it offers a uniquely broad skill set.



Inequalities contribute to fundamentalisms and populist movements, and drive civil wars and conflicts. But inequalities also generate new forms of political activism, generating demands for gender and racial equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and prompts calls for governments to deal with increasing levels of socioeconomic inequality.



The programme draws on the expertise of award-winning staff whose research addresses inequalities through a wide range of themes and regions of the world. Within this vibrant intellectual environment, you will develop practical and intellectual capacities for understanding inequality, power and agency, relevant to a wider range of professional contexts.



Course Structure

To be awarded a MSc degree, students need to obtain 180 credits, which includes a satisfactory dissertation within the social study of the MSc themes – inequalities, power, agency (60 CATS).



The PG Dip exit pathway gives students the opportunity to follow the programme (120 credits in modules) without completing a dissertation. The PG Cert (60 CATS in semester 1 modules) is envisaged as a possible exit pathway.



It is possible to undertake the programme as a full-time student over one year (see table below). For students taking the MSc as a part-time programme (on 2 or 3 years), it is expected they pass all taught modules during the first year (possible over two years) and undertake their dissertation on the last year of study.



In Semester 1, students take three compulsory modules and choose one methodology module. In Semester 2, Students choose three optional research-based modules and one methodology module. Throughout the year, students undertake a dissertation relating to the social study of inequalities.

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.



Year 1

Core Modules

• Power, Agency and Global Inequalities (10 credits)

• Theory and Debates in Social Research (20 credits)

• Research Design (20 credits)



Optional Modules

• Work, Knowledge and Organisati (10 credits)

• Religion, Power and Peacebuilding (20 credits)

• The Sources and Construction of Qualitative Data (10 credits)

• Quantitative Data Analysis: Intermediate (10 credits)

• Social Divisions, Conflict and Change in Northern Ireland: New Sociological Research (10 credits)

• Global Migration, Diaspora and Citizenship (20 credits)

• The Sources and Construction of Quantitative Data (10 credits)

• Inequality and Emotions (10 credits)

• A Sociology of Extremism in the Global Age (20 credits)

• Qualitative Data Analysis (10 credits)

• Policy-engaged research for Public Sociologists (20 credits)

Graduate

Normally a strong 2.2 Honours degree (with minimum of 55%) or above or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in any subject discipline.



Applicants with an acceptable 2.2 Honours degree below 55% or equivalent, may also be considered if they have at least two years of professional experience in an education, training or relevant context.



International Students

Please see International Student's link below.

Closing date for applications: Thursday 31 July 2025 at 4pm.

Late applications may be considered.



Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder.



Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.

3 years (Part-time)

1 year (Full-time)



Teaching Times

Usually delivered in evenings and full day/half day sessions, including weekends.

Entry Year: 2025/26

Career Prospects

Introduction

Graduates of this programme will be able to pursue careers across a diverse range of organisational settings such as in civil service, public policy including think tanks, journalism, care and support services, voluntary and community sectors, human rights advocacy, social enterprises and business. This programme is also an excellent stepping-stone for a Social Science PGCE, and for doctoral research.

http://www.prospects.ac.uk