Sociology - Master of Science programme

A thematic approach will let you explore contemporary sociological research on knowledge, environmental and climate issues, social inequalities and digital social life. Knowledge is studied in contrast with beliefs, facts and conspiracy theories. The driving forces behind societal change and sustainability transition will be examined, as well as the complexity of inequality and its various dimensions, such as social class, geography, rural/urban, women/men, and younger/older. You will also
study the sociology of digital arenas, digital phenomena and social debate. The programme gives you considerable freedom to select courses according to interest and future needs.

The programme enables you to develop critical thinking, analytical skills and the ability to conduct societal analysis, as well as to acquire specialised knowledge of sociology. On completion of the programme, you will be awarded a degree of Master of Science (120 credits) specialising in sociology.
The programme will prepare you for PhD studies in sociology as well as for advanced professional work in the government, non-profit, and private sectors.

The programme is given on Campus in Lund at the Department of Sociology: http://www.soc.lu.se/en

Language of instruction: English.

In the programme, you will gain:

• knowledge and understanding in sociology, including both broad knowledge of the field and a considerable degree of specialised knowledge in certain areas of the field as well as specialised insight into current research and development work.

• specialised knowledge of research methods in sociology.

• the ability to critically and systematically integrate knowledge, and to analyse, assess and deal with complex phenomena, issues and situations, even with limited information.

• the ability to identify and formulate research questions critically, autonomously and creatively as well as to plan and, using appropriate methods, undertake advanced tasks within predetermined time frames and so contribute to the formation of knowledge as well as the ability to evaluate this work.

• the skills required for participation in research and development work or autonomous employment in some other qualified capacity.

The programme also offers you the possibility to apply for a double degree with Fudan University in Shanghai, which means that you can get two degrees within the two years of studies, one from Lund University and one from Fudan University. For more information please contact our Study Advisers: studievagledare [at] soc [dot] lu [dot] se.

Courses and credits

• Semester 1: Sociology of knowledge (7,5 credits), Sociological perspectives on sustainability transition (7,5 credits), Emerging Inequalities (7,5 credits), Digital social life (7,5 credits).
• Semester 2: The research process (15 credits) and selected courses in research methods given by Graduate School (7,5+7,5 credits).
• Semester 3: Elective courses, Study abroad or Internship (30 credits).
• Semester 4: Master’s thesis (30 credits).