Program Overview

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Overview

The Sociology and Social Research MA programme at Newcastle University is designed to equip students with advanced research skills, methods, and theories in sociology and the broader social sciences. The programme provides students with an appreciation of the philosophical principles and epistemological frameworks that underpin all social enquiry.

What You'll Learn

Throughout the course, students will:

• Learn about contemporary sociological research from subject specialists
• Gain an understanding of the range of sophisticated conceptual and theoretical tools applied to make sense of social life
• Receive extensive training and support on research epistemologies and methods
• Be empowered to conduct their own empirical research, supported by methods training and a subject mentor

Modules

The programme includes the following modules:

• Compulsory Modules:
  • Engaging with Research (G)
  • Thinking about Research
  • Quantitative Analysis
  • Inequalities: Issues and Intersections
  • Dissertation
• Optional Modules:
  • Creative Methods in Social Science
  • Qualitative Methodology in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Critical Approaches to Environment and Society
  • Global Sex Global Race
  • Perpetual Wars? Crime, Policing and (in)Security

How You'll Learn

The programme is delivered through:

• Interactive lectures and workshops
• Seminars
• Methods teaching may also involve workshops
• Dissertation research takes the form of an independent project supported by one-to-one supervision and an MA student conference

Assessment Methods

Depending on the modules, students will be assessed through a combination of:

• Case study
• Computer assessment
• Design or creative project
• Dissertation
• Essay
• Poster
• Portfolio
• Problem-solving exercises
• Report
• Reflective log
• Research proposal
• Thesis
• Written exercise

Your Development

The programme prepares students for a wide range of careers across the public, private, and third sectors. Students will develop their understanding of the social world and enrich their methodological skills. The programme provides a solid foundation for careers and further education routes that involve high-level research skills and methodological knowledge, including PhD study.

Your Future

Graduates often go on to work in academic settings, but also take up roles across the public, private, and third sectors, such as:

• Voluntary and community sector
• Local government/public administration
• International organisations
• Journalism
• Central government/civil service
• Social and legal research
• Marketing
• Education

Quality and Ranking

• 42% of the university's research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• Global Top 140 University – QS World University Rankings 2026
• Global Top 160 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
• Top 125 for Social Sciences – Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Top 200 for Sociology - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

Facilities

The School has common student workspaces, including bookable rooms as well as access to basic kitchen facilities and social areas. There is also a café on the ground floor of the School building.

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry (per year)

• Qualification: MA Full time: £11,400 (Home students), £25,900 (International students)
• Qualification: MA Part time: £5,700 (Home students)

Scholarships

The university supports EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships.

Entry Requirements

Academic Entry Requirements

A 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in a sociology/policy discipline.

English Language Requirements

Select your qualification: IELTS, Pearson, Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, Other.

Admissions Policy

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University.

How to Apply

The course starts in September, and there is no application closing date. However, international students are recommended to apply at least two months before the course starts. A deposit of £1,500 is required for international students or students from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland who need a visa to study in the UK.