Sociology

The MSc is designed to provide a 12 month course of study for students who wish to move on to doctoral work or to be trained for careers in social research. It provides a strong foundation in research methods and the analytical techniques of sociology. Students are also able to specialise in a particular substantive area of sociology and this enables them, for example, to obtain an in-depth knowledge of the field within which their proposed doctorate lies.

The programme aims to:

• develop the intellectual skills of the student in the analysis and interpretation of social phenomena and the explanation of sociological findings;
• give students a comprehensive understanding of research techniques applicable to sociological enquiry;
• give students a thorough substantive knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights in contemporary sociology;
• provide students with the skills to integrate theoretical, substantive and technical principles in their analysis of sociological issues;
• through a thesis to give students experience in conducting a major piece of sociological investigation that builds on the skills learned throughout the course;
• prepare students for doctoral work in sociology and for research careers in government and the private sector;
• provide education and training that meets the ESRC´s postgraduate training guidelines.

The programme is offered on a full-time basis. It extends over one year and leads to the degree of M Sc. There are four assessed components of the programme - Sociological Analysis, Methods of Social Research, an optional paper, and a thesis. The programme begins with an introductory week, which covers study skills, use of IT, resources , an overview of research conducted in the Department and general building matters.

This is then followed by three eight-week terms.

Sociological Analysis is a compulsory core paper. It is assessed through a written examination at the end of the third term.

The paper in Methods of Social Research is also compulsory. It has three components: statistical methods, methods of data collection (including quantitative and qualitative methods), and research design and strategy. Statistical methods and methods of data collection are assessed through coursework assignments and a statistical test. Research design and strategy is assessed through a written critique of a published paper. The critique has to be submitted by the beginning of the second term of the course.

The optional papers is chosen from a list of options. This list currently includes Criminology, Sociological Theory, Sociology of Politics, Sociology of Economic Life, Social Stratification, Sociology of Education, Sociology of Law, Intermediate Social Statistics, Ethnicity and Nationalism, Sociology of Latin America, Sociology of Japan, Sociology of China and Family and the Life Course. The optional papers are taught during the second and fifth terms of the course, and are assessed either through an unseen written examination at the end of the third term of the year in which the paper is taken or through an assignment submitted at the end of the third term of the year in which the paper is taken.

The thesis is required to analyse a topic within the subject of the course. The thesis must not be more than 10,000 words (not counting brief footnotes, technical appendices and a list of references).

1. Academic ability

Proven and potential academic excellence

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in a social science subject.

The department will only consider applicants who have an undergraduate degree in arts, humanities or science subjects if they can demonstrate a strong interest in sociology, as taught at Oxford.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought, though you may include these scores as part of your application.

2. English language requirement

Higher level

3. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

• Three references (letters of recommendation)
• Official transcript(s) of previous university-level degrees
• CV/résumé
• Personal statement: 750 words
• Written work: Two essays of 2,000 words each

• Clarendon Scholarships. This unique scheme offers around 140 new, fully-funded scholarships each year to academically outstanding graduate students, as well as providing a lively and stimulating community of scholars.
• Hill Foundation Scholarships. The Hill Foundation Scholarships fund Russian students to study for full-time graduate courses in any subject at Oxford. The Hill Foundation is a charity which aims to create a community of Oxford scholars and alumni who will work to improve Russian life and culture.The scholarship will cover 100% of University and college fees and a grant for living costs (of at least £14,296). Awards are made for the full duration of your fee liability for the agreed course.