Sociology: Tilburg University

Course Description

The master programme focuses on three key topics in sociology: social inequality, social cohesion, and modernization processes. Issues and problems of inequality and cohesion are studied at the micro-level of primary relations (notably, the immediate and wider family and social networks), and at the macro-level of societies (with a specific focus on the role of the welfare state). Relations between both levels will be addressed, as e.g. regarding work and welfare arrangements affecting people’s social ties, and vice versa, welfare needs arising from life course events. The master programme has an explicit empirical research focus. That is, social problems and issues are translated into sociological research questions, which are analyzed with the aid of theories/models, and advanced research methods and statistical techniques. Following this, students will also learn how policy solutions can be derived from the results of sociological analyses, and to evaluate implementations of these solutions.

The programme of study for the master in Sociology begins in September of each year; the course lasts one year and is worth 60 ECTS. 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).

Admission requirments

You hold a UvT Bachelor’s degree in Sociology

You are granted unconditional admission to the master 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 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.