Master of Research in Public Sociology

Program Overview

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The Master of Research (Public Sociology) at Queen Margaret University equips students with advanced research skills and knowledge in public sociology. The program emphasizes the application of sociological theory and methods to real-world problems and issues, providing students with the opportunity to develop their own research project under the guidance of experienced supervisors. The program is designed to be flexible and accessible, with options for full-time and part-time study, and offers a supportive learning environment that fosters collaboration and peer learning.

Program Outline

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Master of Research (Public Sociology) at Queen Margaret University

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Degree Overview

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Objectives:

• Equip students with advanced research skills and knowledge in public sociology.
• Enable students to develop their own research project under the guidance of experienced supervisors.
• Provide students with the opportunity to earn an internationally recognized research qualification.
• Offer flexible study options, including full-time and part-time enrollment.

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Description:

The Master of Research (MRes) in Public Sociology equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct high-quality research in the field. The program emphasizes the application of sociological theory and methods to real-world problems and issues. Students will gain a deep understanding of the social, economic, and political forces that shape contemporary societies. The program is designed to be flexible and accessible, with options for full-time and part-time study. While the program is delivered primarily online, some optional electives are available on-campus for students based in the UK. International students are limited to online electives.

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Key Features:

• A rigorous curriculum that covers both theoretical and methodological aspects of public sociology.
• A focus on developing independent research skills and critical thinking abilities.
• Opportunities to work closely with experienced faculty members on research projects.
• A supportive learning environment that fosters collaboration and peer learning.
• Flexibility to study full-time or part-time, online or on-campus (for UK students).

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Outline

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Program Content:

• The program covers a wide range of topics in public sociology, including:
• Social theory
• Research methods
• Social policy
• Social justice
• Urban studies
• Health and inequality
• Education and social mobility
• Environmental sociology
• Digital cultures
• Globalisation and development

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Structure:

• The program consists of four core modules and a choice of elective modules.
• The core modules provide a foundation in key areas of public sociology, while the elective modules allow students to tailor the program to their individual interests.
• Students are also required to complete a research dissertation, which is an independent research project supervised by a faculty member.

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Course Schedule:

• The full-time program is typically completed in one year, while the part-time program can be completed in 2.5 to 7 years.
• The course schedule is available on the university website.

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Individual Modules:

• The program includes the following core modules:
• Research Methods in Public Sociology
• Social Theory and Public Sociology
• Social Policy and Social Justice
• Contemporary Issues in Public Sociology
• Students can choose from a variety of elective modules, including:
• Urban Studies
• Health and Inequality
• Education and Social Mobility
• Environmental Sociology
• Digital Cultures
• Globalisation and Development

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods:

• The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Essays
• Presentations
• Research projects
• Exams

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Assessment Criteria:

• The assessment criteria are based on the learning outcomes of each module.
• Students are assessed on their ability to:
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of the subject matter.
• Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
• Conduct independent research.
• Communicate their findings effectively.

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods:

• The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Online learning

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in their field.
• The faculty members are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program has a strong focus on student-centered learning.
• Students are encouraged to take an active role in their learning and to engage in critical discussion with their peers and faculty.
• The program also provides students with opportunities to develop their research skills through independent research projects.

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Careers

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Career Paths:

• Graduates of the MRes in Public Sociology can pursue careers in a variety of fields, including:
• Academia
• Research
• Policy analysis
• Social work
• Community development
• Education
• Journalism

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Career Opportunities:

• The program provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a variety of careers.
• Graduates of the program are well-prepared to:
• Conduct high-quality research.
• Analyze social problems and propose solutions.
• Communicate effectively with a variety of audiences.
• Work independently and as part of a team.

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields.
• Some examples of career outcomes include:
• Research positions in universities and government agencies
• Policy analyst positions in government and non-profit organizations
• Social work positions in community organizations and hospitals
• Teaching positions in schools and universities
• Journalism positions in newspapers and magazines

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Other

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Student Story:

• Jordan Phillips, a graduate of the MRes in Public Sociology, shared his experience in the program.
He said that the program allowed him to utilize the research skills he gained during his undergraduate degree and build on them to become a more well-rounded academic researcher.

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Open Events:

• Queen Margaret University offers postgraduate open events where prospective students can learn more about the MRes in Public Sociology and other postgraduate programs.

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Additional Information:

• The program website provides additional information about the MRes in Public Sociology, including admissions requirements, fees, and funding opportunities.