MPhil, PhD Sociology

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees are research degrees. Research degrees involve independent study, directed by a supervisor, and the production of a thesis. The essential difference between the Master and Doctoral levels, aside from the length of the registration period, lies in the quality of a successful PhD thesis, which must be judged to be the result of original research, to be an addition to knowledge and to be worthy of publication either in full or in an abridged form in a refereed journal.

If the candidate has been accepted to pursue an MPhil degree following the award of a BSc, he/she must pursue core taught graduate courses in theory, methods and at least one taught course in the area of specialisation. All MPhil or PhD candidates must pursue a taught course in the area of specialisation before proceeding to the thesis.

The award of a PhD also requires the candidate to defend his/her thesis at a public oral examination. Many research degrees now contain a taught element. The intention of these taught courses is to provide students with research techniques and skills that will not only help them to complete their current research topic, but will also stand them in good stead for life after University.

The MPhil programme requires applicants to have a good honours degree, with emphasis on their proposed research area. The courses outlined in the MSc programme are normally required for entry into the MPhil programme. However the department will decide on the eligibility and acceptance of candidates. MPhil students are required to pursue two taught graduate level courses.

Candidates seeking entry to the MPhil programme should hold a Bachelor’s degree (second class honours or above.

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