Welcome to MPhil/PhD Sociology

Sociology provides a framework for the study of human behaviour, examining how societies are organised, how social identities are con-structed, and the issues facing some of society's most marginalised people.

Postgraduate research in the School of Social and Political Sciences is informed by the expertise of its team of academics, who have long-standing links to government, research organisations, and the voluntary sector.

Opportunities for research are available across a range of topics in social and political sciences. Current students' research projects in the field of sociology include:

The Socio-erotic Capital of HIV
Demographics of the 21st Century Free Party Scene
Female Labour Migration and Domestic Work in Lincolnshire.

How You Study

Research students can enrol for MPhil or PhD awards. These degrees are normally undertaken wholly by thesis and can be carried out either on a full-time or a part-time basis.

The School aims to provide appropriate support to enable students to become independent researchers. Students are required to follow a structured pattern of activity during which their progress can be monitored and encouraged. Students are allocated two supervisors and the emphasis is on providing whatever training is required, as well as the development of knowledge.

Students are asked to contribute to the School's research seminar series, are able to apply for funding to attend conferences, and are encouraged to publish their work and to develop links with appropriate external networks.

Research students normally have two internal supervisors with specialist knowledge relevant to the student's subject area and research methods, and have regular meetings with them for advice, monitoring, and other support. Students can engage with external experts and advisors as necessary. Students may also have the opportunity to con-tribute to teaching, subject to the necessary training.

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, a significant portion of time will be spent in independent study and research. Students will meet with their academic supervisors at least once a month for full-time students, and every two months for part-time students.

How You Are Assessed

Research degrees are usually awarded based on the quality of the students thesis and ability to present and successfully defend their chosen research topic in an oral examination (viva voce). They are also expected to demonstrate how their research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theory or understanding.

Students enrolled on the MPhil programme will be given the opportunity to upgrade to a PhD. This will usually involve the submission of a report and an internal viva.

Your Future Career

Sociology is a diverse subject and the skills acquired through its study and research can equip graduates with a wide range of knowledge and skills suitable for a varied career in academia or a range of private, public, and third sector organisations.

A research degree in sociology will lead to opportunities to work at local, national, and international levels. This includes central government, local authorities, and supra-national bodies, but also think tanks, charities, NGOs, and social enterprises. Alternatively, graduates may pursue positions as researchers or academics in institutes of higher education.