MSc Digital Sociology

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

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 is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduating with an MSc in Digital Sociology from the University of Edinburgh opens up diverse career opportunities at the intersection of sociology, technology, and digital culture. This innovative program equips graduates with a critical understanding of how digital technologies shape contemporary society, providing valuable skills for analyzing and navigating the complexities of the digital age.  

1. Social Researcher: Many graduates pursue careers as social researchers, conducting studies on the social impacts of digital technologies. They work in research institutes, think tanks, or academic settings, analyzing trends in digital culture, online behavior, and societal transformations.

2. Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts for government agencies, NGOs, or advocacy organizations, focusing on digital policy issues such as privacy, data governance, internet regulation, and digital rights. They contribute to shaping policies that promote digital inclusion and address social inequalities.

3. Digital Strategy Consultant: With expertise in digital sociology, graduates may work as consultants for businesses, helping organizations understand social trends and consumer behavior in the digital marketplace. They advise on digital strategies, marketing campaigns, and stakeholder engagement.

4. Media and Communications Specialist: Graduates can pursue roles in media production, digital journalism, or corporate communications, applying their knowledge of digital sociology to create compelling narratives and engage audiences online. They may work for media companies, PR agencies, or digital content platforms.

5. Data Analyst: Some graduates specialize in data analysis, using their skills to interpret digital data and extract insights about social behavior and online interactions. They work in sectors such as market research, advertising, or social media analytics.

6. Digital Advocacy and Campaigning: Graduates interested in social activism may work for non-profit organizations or grassroots movements, using digital platforms to raise awareness, mobilize communities, and advocate for social change.

7. User Experience (UX) Researcher: Graduates with a focus on human-computer interaction and user experience (UX) design can pursue roles as UX researchers or usability analysts. They evaluate digital interfaces and technologies to improve user engagement and accessibility.

8. Academic or Teaching Career: Some graduates choose to pursue further studies or academic careers, conducting research and teaching courses in digital sociology, digital culture, or media studies at universities and colleges.

9. Digital Entrepreneurship: Graduates with entrepreneurial ambitions may start their own ventures in areas such as digital media, online community platforms, or social impact startups. They leverage their understanding of digital sociology to develop innovative solutions and services.

10. Data Privacy and Ethics Consultant: Graduates may specialize in data privacy and ethics consulting, advising organizations on ethical practices related to data collection, user consent, and algorithmic fairness in digital environments.