Sociology MA

Better understand a world of dynamic identities and race and gender inequalities within our societies. We offer a suite of optional modules that examine a broad range of social issues and divisions.

Course Structure

This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode.

• Tailor the curriculum to match your own interests and career plans
• Engage critically with cutting-edge, research-led modules on social transformation

• Taught modules – these include lectures, seminars, journal clubs and workshops
• Research-based modules – working on your own and in groups, you’ll enjoy regular supervision and directed research work
• Assessments – these will include a range of coursework, such as traditional essay, policy reports and a dissertation

You will be taught by those who are involved in cutting-edge research and who write the publications that you will study. You will be taught primarily by academic experts from the Department’s ‘Social Theory and Social Transformation’ research theme, which carries out high quality research to make sense of societal change. Our research investigates global, national and local transformations, the patterns of social relationships and interactions and the culture of everyday life.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

The following must be taken:

Students also choose 60 credits from the following modules:

For entry onto this programme you will normally have an undergraduate degree of at least a 2:1 in a relevant subject.

Applicants are required to offer a relevant degree subject, and we will consider the following subjects: social policy, sociology, criminology, cultural studies, politics, international relations, generic social science degrees, a business-related subject, human/social geography, media studies, art history, history and philosophy.

Applicants with a 2:2 degree classification will be considered on a case-by-case basis, if you have extensive related work experience.

International applicants will be required to hold an IELTs 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band or equivalent qualification.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL iBT taken before January 2026: 88 overall with no less than 22 in any band
• TOEFL iBT taken from January 2026: 4.5 Overall with no less than 4.5 in any band
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 67 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 176 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English presessional programmes

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Tuition fee deposits for international students

International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.

Postgraduate Masters loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we have put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Your careers toolkit

Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.

Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:

• Careers support services and Careers Network
• Work experience and placements
• Enterprise and entrepreneurship
• Alumni and employer connections
• Global opportunities and life experience
• Careers in the curriculum

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.