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Department of Sociology
Cricket field with views of Durham Cathedral and castle behind

Taught Courses

Our programmes offer different routes to a range of careers in Sociology which are grounded in active research specialisms of academic staff and strongly reflect our departmental research themes. We welcome applications from students all over the world including aspirant social workers and those progressing on from undergraduate study.

Our Postgraduate Taught Courses

MSc Sociology

This course examines the ways in which societies, cultures, institutions and practices are formed, organised and constituted, and how they are changing.
Large group of people crossing the street

MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice

This course provides an understanding of crime, deviance and criminal justice from critical, theoretical, policy, legal, political and practical perspectives.
Law court building

MA Social Research Methods

This course will enable you to develop a thorough grounding in approaches to researching sociology, criminology, social policy or social work.
Digital data

Master of Social Work (MSW)

This course provides strong foundations for practice in any field of social work by addressing some of the most difficult social problems facing contemporary societies.
A group of people walking and cycling through the park
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Look Closer at the Department of Sociology

Our Department of Sociology is ranked 1st in the UK for Criminology and 3rd in the UK for Sociology in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024. In our rapidly changing global environment, there has never been a more important time to look at the world through a social lens and engage in theoretically-driven learning that makes a difference.

Look Closer
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Postgraduate scholarships

We offer a range of support to help ensure that the brightest and best students can access a world-class education. Learn more about our range of scholarships and bursaries for postgraduate study.

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Upcoming Events

Postgraduate Academic Session (in-person)

Join us at our next in-person Postgraduate Academic Session on Friday, 14th March, 14:30 – 16:00, at the Teaching and Learning Centre, Durham University, Room TLC 129 to find out more about our postgraduate programmes, including the Health specialist pathway for Durham University’s Master of Data Science.

The Academic Session provide a great way to talk with staff and current students about your options and any questions you might have, including about funding possibilities and career development opportunities.

If you would like to book a place, please register using the following link  https://durhamuni.eventsair.com/postgraduate-academic-sessions-202425-test/ipipsc/Site/Register

 

Virtual Drop-In Sessions: Insights into Sociology, Criminology and Social Work

Dr Alice Nah invites you to drop-in for a chat about our Sociology Department Master's programmes. She will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the MA Sociology, MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice, MA Social Research Methods, Master of Social Work including course structure, modules or options for your dissertation.

Drop-in sessions will be held: 

  • Thursday, 13 March 2025, 13:00-14:00 and 16:00-17:00 (UK time)
  • Thursday, 1 May 2025, 13:00-14:00 and 16:00-17:00 (UK time)

 

To join any of these sessions, complete this registration form.

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