2-Term Pathway - Pre-Master's in Social Sciences - Continue to Master of Arts - Sociology

If students hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet the entry requirements for a master’s, a Pre-Master’s can help them gain a place on a postgraduate degree. For progression to the 1st year of a postgraduate degree at the University of Essex. Course length is determined mainly by students' English language level (UKVI IELTS score).

Students on all course lengths take a set of common or similar modules to gain a solid base of skills for university. If their course is longer than 2 terms, students will take additional modules designed to improve one or more of their English language level, academic skills, and basic knowledge of particular subjects.

Join one of the top sociology departments in the UK and further the understanding of the tensions, interactions and networks that dictate how societies are organised. Students contribute to the thinking that guides organisations such as the Home Office, Amnesty International and the United Nations.

Students explore some of the most important and significant debates in contemporary social theory, learning to think analytically about theoretical questions. Students discover the importance of social theory in developing a politically engaged understanding of concepts such as post-structuralism, feminism and actor-network theory, focusing on topics such as:

Students also develop the skills needed to make their own contribution to the field, gaining a critical and coherent perspective on empirical research and examining the key assumptions and ideological underpinnings of qualitative and quantitative research.

Essex's Department of Sociology was rated top 10 in the UK for research quality and 7th in the UK in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2020).

A good sociology course, especially one from a recognised centre of excellence like Essex, opens many doors.

This course provides excellent preparation for further academic study, and many of Essex's postgraduates go on to successful academic careers, both in the UK and overseas. Others have established careers in non-governmental organisations, local authorities, specialist think tanks, government departments, charities, media production, and market intelligence.