MA Sociology

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: For admission to postgraduate programs at UCD, the general entry requirement is a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in the student's previous academic qualifications, such as a bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual band lower than 6.0.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no section below Listening 19, Speaking 19, Writing 21, and Reading 19.
• PTE: Overall score of 63 with a minimum of 59 in each section.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120 with a minimum of 110.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

UCD offers various scholarships and financial aid options specifically designed to support international students pursuing their education at the university. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden for deserving students. 

UCD Global Excellence Graduate Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students applying for eligible full-time master's programs. It covers a percentage of the tuition fees for the duration of the program.

UCD Global Undergraduate Scholarship: Intended for non-EU students, this scholarship is based on academic performance and offers financial assistance towards tuition fees for the duration of undergraduate studies.

Regional Graduate Scholarships: UCD provides scholarships targeted at students from specific regions or countries, encouraging diversity and supporting talented individuals from those areas.

UCD Ad Astra Academic Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding students with exceptional academic achievements and offers financial support along with enrichment opportunities.

Sports Scholarships: For students who excel in sports, UCD offers scholarships to support their academic pursuits while actively participating in sports at a competitive level.

UCD Research Scholarships: These scholarships are available to support international students pursuing research-based postgraduate programs, providing funding and opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research initiatives.

Government and External Scholarships: UCD collaborates with various governments, organizations, and foundations worldwide to offer additional scholarship opportunities for international students based on specific criteria and partnerships.

Completing an MA in Sociology from UCD opens up diverse career opportunities across various sectors due to the acquired theoretical knowledge, research skills, and critical thinking developed during the program.

1. Social Researcher/Analyst: Graduates can pursue roles as social researchers or analysts, working in research institutions, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. They conduct qualitative and quantitative research on social issues, contributing to policy development or academic studies.

2. Policy Analyst/Advisor: With a deep understanding of societal dynamics, MA Sociology graduates can work in policy development and analysis roles for government bodies, international organizations, or think tanks. They assess social implications and offer recommendations for policy formulation.

3. Community Development Worker: Graduates can work in community organizations or NGOs, focusing on empowering communities, promoting social change, and addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, or social exclusion.

4. Human Resources Specialist: Their sociological expertise can be valuable in human resources roles, particularly in diverse and inclusive workplace strategies, employee relations, and organizational culture development.

5. Non-Profit and Advocacy Roles: Many graduates choose careers in non-profit sectors, advocacy groups, or NGOs, focusing on social justice, human rights, and social welfare advocacy.

6. Academia/Education: Graduates interested in academia can pursue further education, enroll in doctoral programs, and eventually enter academic roles as sociology lecturers or researchers.

7. Market Research Analyst: Understanding societal behaviors and trends makes sociology graduates suitable for market research roles, analyzing consumer behavior, and societal trends for businesses.

8. Social Services Coordinator: Working in social service agencies, they might assist in planning and implementing programs aimed at providing aid, support, and resources to marginalized communities or individuals in need.

9. Media and Communications: Sociological understanding can be applied in media, journalism, or communications, analyzing and reporting on social issues, trends, and societal dynamics.

10. Data Analysis and Policy Evaluation: Graduates can also work in data analysis and policy evaluation roles within governmental bodies, NGOs, or private organizations, examining the effects of policies on different social groups.