2-Term Pathway - Pre-Master's in Social Sciences - Continue to Master of Science - Migration Studies

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.

What trends in migration have been seen in recent years? Do some societies facilitate adaptation for migrants better than others? Migration, refugees and forced displacement are some of the most pressing and controversial challenges facing contemporary societies and nation states. Essex's course uniquely explores the study of migration through a sociological perspective and uses a scientific approach to investigate the key challenges that will shape policy agendas and the impact that this could have around the world.

Essex's MSc Migration Studies combines insights of sociological theory with the methodological rigour highly in demand by government, NGOs and supranational institutions. Drawing on the expertise of leading researchers, students build the methodological skills needed to conduct their own research and make their own contribution to the field of migration. Students gain a critical and coherent perspective on empirical research and examining the key assumptions and ideological underpinnings of qualitative and quantitative research. This course covers a wide range of topics, including:

Students also develop a strong theoretical understanding and address key issues surrounding migration.

Essex's Department of Sociology was rated top 10 in the UK for research quality (REF 2014).