How do social networks emerge and develop? How do they affect social capital, trust, and cooperation? What causes inequalities between men and women in the job market? Why do immigrants have higher unemployment rates and lower-paid jobs? In the Master’s programme in Sociology and Social Research, you will learn to develop testable explanations of important social phenomena using state-of-the-art social theory, empirical research, and data analysis.
Problem-driven research on social cohesion and inequality
As a student on this Master, you will deal with major sociological research questions related to social cohesion (solidarity) and inequality. Addressing these questions requires us to adopt an interdisciplinary approach.
International orientation and individual development
The programme’s international character offers you global perspectives on sociology topics as well as a broad range of research opportunities. About 40% of our students come from abroad, famous international experts teach master classes, and you will have the opportunity to follow courses abroad. You will also have the opportunity to make choices that fit your goals, such as choosing to do an internship and writing your thesis at other institutions or research groups in the Netherlands or abroad.
Programme Objective
In this two-year Master’s programme, you will learn to operate as a highly qualified social science researcher with a clear focus on social cohesion and inequality. You will also learn to integrate sociological theory and empirical research by means of state-of-the-art statistical analyses. Your studies will fully equip you to become a PhD candidate.
Job Prospects are Excellent
There is a need in society for well-trained researchers with extensive knowledge of social science theories and methodologies. This Master programme connects with current major social issues and prepares you for a scientific career, whether in academia (PhD training), research institutes, or government organisations. You will also be prepared for a non-scientific career path.
Academic Career
As a graduate of this programme, you will be a highly trained researcher and well-qualified to work as a scientific researcher in the social sciences.
Expected September 2022
Utrecht University
Heidelberglaan 8,
Utrecht Science Park / De Uithof,
Utrecht,
3584, Netherlands
You must hold an academic Bachelor’s degree in Social or Behavioural Sciences (like Interdisciplinary Social Science, Sociology, Cultural Anthropology or Psychology), Economics, Political Sciences/Public Administration, Geography or Business and Management Programmes. Students with another academic Bachelor’s degree and a thorough training in formal models and/or quantitative analysis such as students with an academic Bachelor’s degree in computer sciences or mathematics can be admitted to SaSR.
Grade Point Average
Students with a GPA of 3.4 (or the Dutch equivalent of 7.5) or higher are eligible. Students with a GPA between 3.0 and 3.4 (Dutch equivalent: 7 or better) may be eligible and can compensate by other capacities they possess, according to the programme’s Admissions Committee.
Other English language requirements: Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English, at least a B grade; Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English, at least a C grade.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
