Global Sociology: Challenges, Interventions and Action MSc

On this master’s in Sociology and Social Policy, you’ll take a research-first approach, with a thorough methods education, to understand the social theories on which sociology and social policy are based.<br/><br/>You’ll join a community of academics at the forefront of research in Social Sciences. <br/><br/><br/>• Our Social Work and Social Policy research is ranked 5th nationally for impact (Latest, Research Excellence Framework, 2021) <br/><br/><br/><br/>• Sociology Research Quality at the University of Southampton is ranked among the top 5 in the UK (The Complete University Guide 2026)<br/><br/><br/><br/>We are strongly committed to providing the very best learning experience for all our students in a friendly, stimulating and research-led environment. You’ll be supported to gain the tools you need to critically examine sociological concepts, such as interest, modernity, inequality, globalisation, class, and gender. <br/><br/>You can choose from three pathways, allowing you to fit your studies to your interests or career plans:<br/><br/><br/>• Substantive pathway - Focussing on fundamental concepts of sociology and social policy and on how these relate to contemporary policy issues.<br/><br/><br/><br/>• International Social Policy - Focussing on understanding global social inequality and policy responses with a grounding in governance. <br/><br/><br/><br/>• Research methods pathway - Students who wish to obtain thorough quantitative and qualitative methods training should enrol in the Research methods pathway.<br/><br/><br/><br/>We keep a global perspective; using social theory and concepts to understand societies around the globe, comparing richer and poorer regions. <br/><br/>On this UK master’s course, you’ll gain an in-depth knowledge of: <br/>- the main themes and debates in sociology and how to use them to analyse social issues <br/><br/><br/>- the main issues in the philosophy of social science <br/><br/><br/>- conceptual debates in social policy <br/><br/><br/>- qualitative and quantitative research methods, and data analysis techniques <br/><br/><br/>- designing and conducting independent research in sociology or social policy<br/><br/><br/>You’ll join a close-knit and diverse learning community, we offer an exceptional academic experience, with small-group teaching that allows you to explore topics in depth and plenty of support to ensure you achieve your potential.<br/><br/>You’ll graduate well placed to pursue careers in social research, public administration, or public policy in the public, private or voluntary sector. You will have also taken the first step towards a PhD in sociology and/or social policy.