Course Summary
The MA Sociology programme provides a broad range of cutting-edge analytical and research skills to better understand significant social issues and problems in contemporary society, and how to act to change them.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should normally have a primary degree in sociology or social science, or a closely related discipline. A Second Class Honours Grade One (2:1) or higher is required but Second Class Honours Grade Two (2:2) standard or equivalent may be considered. Applicants who do not meet the academic requirements but can confirm professional qualifications and/or experience will be considered. Applicants may be called for an interview.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL) based on relevant work experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis as an alternative to an undergraduate degree qualification for entry to the program. Link to the RPL policy can be found here
All candidates are expected to be proficient in written and spoken English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must submit evidence of a certificate of proficiency (such as TOEFL, Cambridge or IELTS). Test results must be less than two years old.
These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes
A NOTE ON SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION:
Supporting documentation must be submitted by all students. Applications will not be considered unless all documents are submitted immediately and received by UCD before the closing date. Documents must be uploaded to the Online Applications system.
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.
Application Details
How to apply?
The following entry routes are available:
MA Sociology FT (W438)
Duration
1 Years
Attend
Full Time
Deadline
Rolling*
MA Sociology PT (W439)
Duration
2 Years
Attend
Part Time
Deadline
Rolling*
* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised
Commencing September 2025
Fees
MA Sociology (W438) Full Time
EU fee per year - € 9100
nonEU fee per year - € 22600
MA Sociology (W439) Part Time
EU fee per year - € 5460
nonEU fee per year - € 11300
***Fees are subject to change
Tuition fee information is available on the UCD Fees website. Please note that UCD offers a number of Masters scholarships for fulltime international students, who have been offered a place on a UCD Masters degree programme. For further information please see International Scholarships.
The Mary Kelly Bursary comprises an award of €2,000 towards university fees to EU students who have been accepted to one of the School of Sociology’s taught masters programmes as a full-time student. For more information please see Mary Kelly Bursary
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
Radio Presenter, Dublin
English Language Teacher, Japan
Senior Officer, Public Sector, Dublin
University Lecturers, Dublin, Belfast, United States
Writer & Editor, Humanitarian Organisation, Wicklow
International Writer, Producer and Film Maker, Dublin
Research Analyst, ESRI, Dublin
A large number of our Graduates continue through to PhD level
Duration
MA Sociology PT (W439): 2 years part-time