Department of Sociology and Criminology

Masters study

Man in a group playing pacman on smartphone

Shaping sociology and society

At Essex, you'll think differently, embrace conflicting viewpoints and be creative in your research.

We'll teach you to question everything and assume nothing and always link theory with evidence to investigate, present and debate topics that fascinate you. Whatever your idea, we'll find a way to make it work.

Our interdisciplinary approach means our curriculum is broad and often unorthodox, our outlook is international and far-reaching, and our staff are not always sociologists. We embed our innovative and sometimes controversial research into your course. You'll work closely with our academics, whose books are used by universities around the world.


Explore our Masters courses
Why choose us?
  • Top 15 in the UK for sociology in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
  • We’re ranked 2nd in the UK for the United Nations Sustainable Development for gender equality (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024)
  • 1st in UK for research environment in Sociology (Grade Point Average, REF 2021)
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Save 33% on future tuition fees

If you're currently studying at Essex or have completed a degree with us before, you could save 33% on the first year of your next degree.

Discover our Loyalty Discount

Great resources and facilities

Our courses give you research method skills and with rare first-hand access to national research data and resources in our Institute for Social and Economic Research (ISER) and UK Data Archive, you can analyse real data for your work.

You have access to our dedicated Student Resource Centre, giving you both academic and personal support and you'll be part of a community of students from all over the world.

 

"I chose to study at Essex because of its international reputation. I found the teaching to be excellent and stimulating, and my lecturers took a personal interest in my development. I liked it so much that I have decided to stay at Essex for my PhD."
Jayne Cottee MA sociology and management