The MSc in Sociology equips you with an advanced and critical understanding of sociological theories and perspectives, and how they are applied to contemporary issues and social transformations. It paves the way into careers in a range of fields, from government and NGOs to charitable organisations, social research and teaching. The analytical focus of the MSc also offers a route into academic research.Through a range of engaging learning approaches, you will begin to view the world in a different way. You will explore the interrelationships of power, social divisions, social diversity and social inequality and their application to social action and public sociology. Course content draws directly on the research specialisms of internationally renowned experts in the Department. These areas of specialism link to many important issues in contemporary society, from gender, violence and abuse to health and social theory, education and inequalities to communities and social justice.Core modules such as 'Public Sociology: Theory and Practice' develop your understanding of the use of sociological inquiry to inform social change in the contemporary world, while 'Researching Society, Policy and Practice' provides a thorough grounding in the main approaches and methods of social research, and how it is used to inform social welfare policy and practice. The wide selection of optional modules on offer allows you to tailor your learning to your interests and career aspirations, and the MSc dissertation is a further opportunity to explore a particular area of sociology in greater depth.As the course progresses you will develop your own approaches to research, taking into consideration the methodological, epistemological and ethical issues inherent in sociological research, activism and public engagement in contemporary societies.