Sociology & 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.

Entrance requirements

Graduate

Normally a strong 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in a social science or related discipline.



International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region at https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/your-country/



English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 7.0, with not less than 6.0 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).



International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.



For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.



If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

Closing date for applications: Friday 31st July 2026at 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)

Entry Year: Academic Year 2026/27

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



Employment after the Course

Through a supportive and dynamic intellectual environment, the academic team delivering the MSc Sociology and Global Inequality strives to empower students to research and communicate ideas preparing them for a range of careers in a broad range of sectors:



Government, public administration and public policy, for instance, as policy advisers, analysts, and coordinators, or in the field of equality and diversity;



NGOs and international development, social enterprises, voluntary and community work, human rights advocacy, and campaign work;



In the private sector, for instance, in advertising and market research;



Professions requiring an understanding of complex social trends and research skills – journalism, think tanks, politics.



The MSc also offers outstanding opportunities to pursue a career in social research or undertake research at PhD level; as such it gives access to careers in education, higher education and academic research.



Students can partner with the Science Shop and develop a research project in collaboration with a community and voluntary sector organisation, which opens the door to this specific sector.