Table of contents

Study Model

Autumn 2026

Compulsory courses

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Spring 2027

Compulsory courses

Elective course 2nd semester

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Autumn 2027

Compulsory courses

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Spring 2028

Compulsory courses

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Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the candidate must have the following total learning outcomes defined in knowledge, skills and general competence:

KNOWLEDGE

The candidate must:

  • have acquired advanced knowledge in sociological research
  • have extensive knowledge of welfare and social institutions
  • have in-depth knowledge of the connection between the problem, methodological procedure, analytical framework and conclusions in sociological works
  • be able to apply sociological and social science theory to new subject areas
  • be able to analyze professional issues based on the history, traditions and characteristics of sociology

SKILLS

The candidate must be able to:

  • apply existing theories, methods and interpretations within sociology and work independently with practical and theoretical problem solving
  • carry out independent, limited research projects under supervision and in line with applicable research ethics norms
  • formulate issues precisely, and analyze empirical evidence according to scientific criteria
  • reflect critically on the reliability of sociological and social science research

GENERAL COMPETENCE

The candidate must be able to:

  • apply their knowledge and skills within sociology in new areas to carry out advanced tasks and projects
  • have an ethical awareness of problems that may arise in research when formulating a problem, carrying out investigations and when using research results
  • communicate your own work to others and accept feedback in a critical and reflective manner
  • collaborate with others on research questions, professional issues, analyzes and conclusions within the subject area
  • contribute to critical analysis, innovation and development processes in private, public and voluntary organizations and in society and business

Admission requirements

The general requirement is completed bachelor’s degree of minimum 3 years’ duration (180 ECTS).

Recommended previous knowledge

Good English skills

General description and profile of the programme

In sociology, we are concerned with change processes in society, how people influence each other, and how we as individuals shape and are shaped by the communities we are part of. Through the course, you will learn about the interaction between people and society and societal stability and change, and you will develop your competence in reflecting on and understanding central development features of modern society.

The study emphasizes a combination of theory, such as sociological analysis, the welfare state and welfare policy, thematic in-depth studies, such as punishment, climate or inequality, and thorough knowledge of methods. Which thematic specializations are taught will vary. In the first year of study, you also choose an elective within either religious studies, organizational science, community planning or social work. During your studies, you have the opportunity to apply for an internship in an organization or company and gain experience from working life while you study.

Through the master programme, you will get training in developing and analyzing complex problems. You will gain practical experience in producing, analyzing and critically evaluating research-based knowledge. These are qualities that are highly valued in the labor market. The aim is that through theory, methodological knowledge and the work on the master's thesis, you will gain versatile analytical competence that will be useful in many professional roles and that working life needs.

Teaching and learning methods

The teaching and working methods will be a combination of lectures, seminars, group work, practical exercises, guidance and self-activity. In some courses, particular emphasis is placed on dialogue-based teaching, with active student participation. Teaching is given in three courses in each of the first two semesters. The third and fourth semesters are intended for work on the master's thesis, under supervision. Considerable personal effort is expected and that the students engage in individual and group-based study work.

Assessment methods

Assessment in the master's program will vary between written school exams, oral exams, home exams and a master's thesis.

Internationalisation

The study program uses international curriculum literature in relevant courses, and global/comparative perspectives are central to several of the courses. Part of the teaching in the first semester will take place in English, and in these courses the students will meet exchange students from other universities.

We recommend that all our students take advantage of the opportunity to go on exchange. Exchange primarily takes place in the 3rd semester, where it is planned that students can choose electives in sociology. Students who go on exchange in the 3rd semester write a smaller master's thesis of 40 credits.

For students who wish to write a 60 credit master's thesis, it will be possible to exchange in the 2nd semester. As there are compulsory subjects that must be replaced this semester, there will be fewer study centers to choose from. The application deadline for exchange in the 2nd semester is already in September in the first semester of the study.

The exchange stay is approved by the study program director and pre-approved subjects are incorporated into the student's education plan. The department has good exchange agreements with universities we collaborate with, including through Erasmus+.

Contact the International Office, study program manager or study supervisor for more information about exchange.

Occupational profiles of graduates and access to further studies

The study provides competence that is in demand in working life for tasks in the public sector, private companies and voluntary and non-profit organisations. With a master's degree in sociology, you will be able to work within:

Municipality, county, directorate or ministry
Public services and administration
Planning and development work
Health and social services
Communication and media
The consulting industry
Personnel work and HR
Voluntary and non-profit organisations


You can become a lecturer if you take a year of Practical Pedagogical Education (PPU) which provides teaching skills in social studies. You can also take a doctorate (PhD) in sociology or other social science subjects by applying for admission to research training.

Qualification awarded

Master's in sociology

Student evaluations

Study programme evaluation is conducted annually in the programme committee in accordance with the Quality System, section 4.2. Before the meeting of the study programme committee, the student representative may obtain suggestions and ideas from fellow students.
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 11:21:46 AM