Inequality and Society MSc

Overview

The Inequality and Society MSc course explores the complex issues of economic and social inequality, examining their causes, consequences, and potential solutions. Students will develop a deep understanding of the subject, learning to think critically and analytically about the ways in which inequality affects individuals, communities, and societies.

Why Us?

• We're a top 10 UK university for social inclusion (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2024)
• Choose from a wide range of optional modules covering staff research specialisms in social research, community and social cohesion, housing, disability, media, socio-economic disadvantage, health inequalities, gender, and childhood
• Gain professional academic experience by presenting your dissertation research findings at a conference at the end of your studies
• Benefit from a concentrated timetable with classes just one day per week (afternoon and evening) to fit around work and other commitments

Course Structure

Full-time Route

The full-time course is studied over one year from October to September. The course runs on a Tuesday with modules in three-hour blocks (1–4pm and 5–8pm) to fit around work and childcare commitments.

• Semester one: Two core modules and development sessions
• Semester two: Two optional modules and development sessions
• Semester three: Core dissertation module

Part-time Route

The part-time version is studied over two years and follows the same day and time slots as full-time students. However, in your first year you'll study a core module in semester one (5–8pm) and an optional module in either the 1–4pm or 5–8pm slot in semester two. In your second year, you'll complete your second core module in semester one, a second optional module in semester two, and your dissertation module.

Course Modules

Semester 1, Core Modules:

• Understanding Economic and Social Inequalities and Exclusion (30 credits) Explore theories and approaches to understanding how economic and social inequalities and exclusion arise and shape contemporary social life in the 21st century.
• Research and Evidence (30 credits) Plan, construct, and implement a researchable problem as a social researcher. Examine the different methods used by social researchers to analyse our social world.

Semester 2, Optional Modules (Choose Two):

• Mind, Body and Health Inequalities (30 credits) Examine historical and current inequalities in both physical and mental health in the UK and globally.
• Fear of a Queer Planet? Sexuality and Inequality (30 credits) Explore the structural barriers and inequalities faced by queer people across the globe.
• Identities, Inequalities and Exploitation in the Media: Exploring the Digital Divide (30 credits) Develop skills in making professional decisions in the diverse contexts of 21st-century organisations.
• A Troubled World? Activism, Resistance and Social Justice (30 credits) Develop your knowledge of why activists, social justice and resistance groups develop as a site of resistance against wider forms of inequality and discrimination.
• Wealth and Worth in a Neoliberal Society (30 credits) Explore the ways in which the concepts of wealth and worth frame the organisation of contemporary social life.
• Sex, Gender and Sexuality: Citizenship, Choice and the State (30 credits) Examine how we live in societies and nation-states with differing legal frameworks which shape our everyday interactions.
• ‘Race,’ Ethnicity and Racism(s) (30 credits) Develop a critical approach to the understanding of ‘race’ and assess the social implications of contemporary practices of racism, and persistent racial and racist ideas.
• Empowerment and Ability: Understanding a Disabling Society (30 credits) Develop existing knowledge of disability, illness, and impairment, using a variety of theoretical frameworks that stand outside of the dominant healthcare model.

Semester 3, Core Module:

• Inequality and Society Dissertation (60 credits) Become a specialist and use your research training, theory and subject knowledge to investigate an area of inequality or inequalities in the social world either locally or globally and investigate solutions to them.

Entry Requirements

• A bachelor's degree (3 years) with a 2:2 classification
• Applicants whose first language isn't English must achieve a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 in all four areas

Fees and Finance

• £8,500 if you're from the UK/Europe
• £17,000 if you're an international student
• Part-time fees are £500 per 10 credits

Career Ready

This course creates a number of career options. Your expert knowledge of equality and diversity, data analysis, and strong research skills will be highly prized by employers. You'll become a specialist in your chosen area of inequality.

Meet the Team

• Matthew Durey, Senior Lecturer in Social Sciences
• Lauren Doyle, Lecturer in Social Studies
• Thomas Rodgers, Lecturer in Criminology and Sociology
• Liz Cunningham, Lecturer in Health and Social Inequalities, BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing and Care in Society

Related Courses

• PhD Doctor of Philosophy
• MA Social Work

Contact

Contact the Student Helpline for further information about studying at the University of Sunderland.

Extracted Information: MSc Inequality and Society at the University of Sunderland

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Degree Overview:

• Aims to develop an interdisciplinary understanding of local, national, and global inequality issues.
• Focuses on exploring strategies for change and researching an area of inequality to specialize in.
• Prepares graduates for careers in the public, voluntary, education, or research sectors, or for pursuing further studies at the PhD level.
• Scholarships are available.

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Outline:

• Full-time route: One year program starting in October, with classes held on Tuesdays (except for two dissertation days).
• Part-time route: Two-year program following the same schedule as the full-time route, with classes in the first year on Tuesdays and classes in the second year divided between both semesters.
• Typical weekly schedule includes interactive lectures, seminars, workshops, blended learning, group and individual work, and computer-based learning.
• Dedicated Personal Academic Tutor provides one-to-one support.
• Enrichment weeks during local half-term holidays offer optional activities.

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Semester 1 Core Modules:

• Inequality, Diversity and Intersectionality: Theory and Practice (30 credits):
Explores intersectionality and examines lived experiences of inequality.
• Research and Evidence (30 credits):
Develops research skills and methods for analyzing social issues.

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Semester 2 Optional Modules (Choose two):

• Mind, Body and Health Inequalities (30 credits):
Examines physical and mental health inequalities across the course.
• Fear of a Queer Planet?
Sexuality and Inequality (30 credits): Explores the challenges faced by LGBTQI+ people globally.
• Identities, Inequalities and Exploitation in the Media: Exploring the Digital Divide (30 credits):
Considers the role of technology in perpetuating and challenging inequalities.
• Global Childhoods (30 credits):
Examines the diverse experiences of children in different societies.
• A Troubled World?
Activism, Resistance and Social Justice (30 credits): Investigates the role of activism in addressing social and political issues.
• Wealth and Worth in a Neoliberal Society (30 credits):
Explores the concepts of wealth and worth in contemporary society.
• Sex, Gender and Sexuality: Citizenship, Choice and the State (30 credits):
Analyzes the relationship between sex, gender, citizenship, and the state.
• ‘Race,’ Ethnicity and Racism(s) (30 credits):
Develops a critical understanding of race and racism.
• Empowerment and Ability: Understanding a Disabling Society (30 credits):
Explores the social construction of disability and impairment.

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Semester 3 Core Module:

• Inequality and Society Dissertation (60 credits):
Specializes in an area of inequality and conducts research to propose solutions.

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Assessment:

• Continuous assessment through essays, presentations, reports, and the dissertation.
• Emphasis on critical analysis, research skills, and problem-solving abilities.

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Teaching:

• Experienced faculty with expertise in various areas of inequality studies.
• Interactive teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, group work, and field trips.
• Access to a dedicated library and online resources.

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Careers:

• Research
• Policy analysis
• Social work
• Education
• Community development
• Activism
• NGOs
• International development
• PhD studies

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Other:

• Opportunity to present research findings at an MSc conference.
• Focus on developing employability skills, such as communication, teamwork, and project management.
• Encouraged to participate in volunteering and internship opportunities.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Fees are: £7,500 if you're from the UK/Europe £16,500 if you're an international student Part-time fees are £445 per 10 credits. Please note that part-time courses aren't available to international students who require a student visa to study in the UK.

• European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals who don't qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme are classed as international, however, for 24/25 admission, you'll receive a European student fee scholarship and will pay the home tuition fee rate for the duration of your studies.
The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter. Learn more in our Help and Advice article.

University of Sunderland

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Overview:

The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.

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Services Offered:

The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.

Student Support:

Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Career Services:

Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student Life:

A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Quality Facilities:

The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.

Inclusive Culture:

The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Vibrant City:

Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.

Strong Industry Links:

The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts and Design:

Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, and Graphic Design.

Sciences:

Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine, and Biology.

Business and Law:

Business Management, Finance, Law, and Tourism.

Computing and Engineering:

Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.

Education and Social Sciences:

Education, Psychology, and Social Work.

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Other:

The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.