Program Overview

Sociology at Ulster has a record of excellence in teaching and learning, regularly achieving 100% satisfaction rates in the National Student Survey.

In addition it undertakes formal periodic review of courses in a process called 'revalidation’ to ensure that they continue to meet standards and are current and relevant.

This course will be revalidated in the near future and it is possible that there will be some changes to the course as described in this prospectus.

Sociology is concerned with developing theories and concepts to explain the origins and nature of the contemporary social world and seeks to justify such theories through systematically collected evidence. A central aim is to provide students with explanatory frameworks relevant to both the wider society in which they will live and the employment settings in which they will work.

Through the Sociology curriculum, you can explore in depth a range of social issues in contemporary Ireland and the world, and understandings of advanced industrial societies, digital society, global development, education, work, conflict, and diversity.

Our curriculum draws on the research strengths of our staff, ensuring you learn cutting-edge sociological theory with the opportunity to explore real case studies. The Ulster University Sociology degrees provide a strong element of research training, giving our graduates access to the best research skills available, and access to a wide range of careers.

The Politics and International Studies minor degree provides a detailed knowledge and understanding of contemporary political analysis, an excellent training in social research methods, the ability to apply theoretical perspectives and concepts to real-life problems, and an appreciation of the complexity and diversity of political problems in society. The degree equips graduates for employment in a range of careers in the statutory, voluntary and private sectors. We give our students the opportunity to gain the skills and ability to carry out independent research, to assess the merits of competing theories and explanations, to work as part of a team, and to effectively engage in policy debate with sensitivity to the views of others – all skills that are highly attractive to employers.