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.