Program Overview

Sociology

Introduction

The study of people and societies at one of the United Kingdom's leading centres for the study of sociology.

We are ranked 5th in the UK for Sociology and Social Policy(Guardian University Guide 2025) and 7th in the UK for Sociology (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)

Study Information

At a Glance

• Degree Qualification: MRes or PhD

Research Area Navigation

Overview

The Department is one of the leading centres for the study of sociology in the United Kingdom, providing nationally and internationally recognised training in social research and equipping postgraduate students with broad range of transferable skills.

Our Research

Our academic staff are internationally renowned for conducting high-quality research in religion and secularisation, political violence and peace studies, gender and social conflict, identity processes and well-being, global social change and political economy, and animals and society.

The Department houses the Institute for Conflict, Transition, and Peace Research (ICTPR), which brings together an interdisciplinary group of scholars and students to develop in-depth theoretical understandings of the concepts and practices of transitions in terms of conflict and peace. The Institute provides a unique setting for learning and innovative research-based teaching for post-graduate students.

Entry Requirements

The general entry requirement is a very good degree in sociology or a cognate subject, normally understood as an upper second-class honours or equivalent. Applicants for research degrees should also have completed significant research training at postgraduate level, for example through the MRes in Social Research that is taught within the department. Applicants should note that the ESRC has its own entry requirements. The department will accept appropriately qualified research students if their proposed research topic is sufficiently in line with the research interests and capabilities of academic staff.

• Applicants to the PhD must provide a detailed research proposal and two academic references from their most recent academic institution.
• Applicants are strongly advised to contact potential supervisors before making an application.

Fees and Funding

• View the tuition fee rates
• Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship.
• Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.

Careers

Our social research training equips our students to become well-rounded social scientists, as well as experts in their specific research area. A postgraduate degree with us provides entry into a variety of careers. Many of our postgraduates move into full-time academic posts in universities around the world. Others enter a variety of careers in both the private and public sectors, with some becoming social researchers for governments and charitable bodies, market researchers for firms or consulting agencies, and leaders in social enterprises and civic organisations.

• Career Opportunities:
  • Government Officer
  • Lecturer
  • Non-Governmental Organisation Officer
  • Policy Advisor
  • Public Advocacy
  • Research Analyst
  • Social Researcher

Related Postgraduate Taught Degrees

• Peace and Conflict Studies
• Policy Evaluation
• Sex, Gender, Violence
• Social Science
• Sociology