M.Phil Sociology and Demography

The M.Phil program offers students an opportunity to explore the current theories and research methods that intersect sociology and demography. This advanced program, spanning 21 months, adopts a life-course and multilevel approach, aiming to examine social problems and the impacts of population change by integrating micro and macro perspectives. By pursuing the M.Phil program, students will develop a strong foundation for various career paths, including academia. This program will prepare students for doctoral studies in sociology and demography, as well as research-intensive positions.

The curriculum of the program mainly highlights-

• population-level analysis and demographic measures
• a life course approach
• sociological analysis as the key approach to explanation
• advanced quantitative methods.

In addition to above emphasis, the M.Phil program consists of various components, including:

• Sociological Analysis paper: This is taught in the first year through lectures and seminars.
• Demographic Analysis paper: Also taught in the first year, this component includes lectures, seminars, and computer labs.
• Life Course Research paper: Taught in the first year, this component involves lectures, seminars, and computer labs.
• Statistical Methods paper: This paper, taught in the first year, includes lectures and computer labs.
• Research Design paper: Taught in the first year through lectures.
• Two option papers: Spread across both years of the M.Phil program, these papers are typically taught through eight weekly classes or seminars for each paper.
• Replication project: This component takes place in the second year and combines individual and group work.
• M.Phil thesis: This is a substantial analysis of up to 30,000 words on a sociological and/or demographic topic. It must be submitted by the end of the second year.