Sociology

The study of sociology attempts to provide answers to a large number of questions regarding the society we live in. The Master’s in Sociology focuses on contemporary, western societies; how they influence one another and the changes they have undergone. Sociological questions regarding societal problems and phenomena are studied from a comparative perspective across both time and space.

The programme of study for the Master’s in Sociology begins in September of each year; the course lasts one year and is worth 60 credits. The course focuses on the sociological analysis of problems concerning social inequality and cohesion in contemporary western societies. This is studied from a micro perspective (family and social networks) as well as from a macro perspective (welfare state).

There are two dual courses linked to this subject. A dual course comprises a theme-based course with a corresponding analysis practical. You will also take classes in research methodology. A final year seminar will prepare you for the research you will be required to carry out as part of your Master’s thesis. Below, you will find a short description of the various programme components.

• Policy Analysis and Policy Evaluation, 6 EC
• Theory and Research: Dynamic Analyses of Individualisation, 6 EC
• Theme: Background and Consequences of Individualisation, 6 EC
• Master's Seminar: Sociology, 6 EC
• Theme: Social Security and the Life Course, 6 EC
• Theory and Research: Solidarity and Social Policy, 6 EC
• Master's Thesis: Sociology, 24 EC

Workload
The workload is spread evenly across the year. The lecturers have reached joint agreements regarding this matter, and have coordinated the timetabling of their subjects accordingly.

You hold a UvT Bachelor’s degree in Sociology
You are granted unconditional admission to the Master’s programme in Sociology.

You hold a UvT Bachelor’s degree in another social sciences subject
You are admitted as long as you have taken the minor in Sociology.

You hold a Bachelor’s degree from another university
You must apply in writing to the Examining Board of the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences. It then assesses whether your degree qualifies you for admission to this Master’s programme. In general terms, it requires that the following criteria be met:

• Sufficiently conversant in the social sciences: Sociology for Social Sciences (MAW); Key questions concerning sociology; Contemporary sociological theories; Classical and modern sociology in action.
• Adequate knowledge of methods and techniques.
• Knowledge of the Bachelor’s subjects which feature in the relevant minor.

Students from equivalent degree programmes will need to submit an application but will generally be admitted onto the programme without any further requirements.

The broad and in-depth knowledge acquired during your Sociology studies here at Tilburg will enable you to make a substantial contribution to the analysis and solution of today’s social problems. The programme prepares students for a wide range of professions.

The range of jobs open to our sociology graduates include:

• general policy officer, secretary or board member for a national, provincial, municipal or private institute working on issues related to employment, welfare, culture, education, recreation or health care;
• adviser on organizational or personnel policy for the government, the education sector or the business sector;
• jobs in journalism and the media within the field of verbal and written communication, and jobs in the information sector;
• researcher for the government, the education sector or the business sector;
• teacher in secondary or tertiary education.