NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE · SINGAPORE
Master of Social Sciences in Sociology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Ranked 10th globally for Sociology by QS World University Rankings (2026)Global Ranking
- First in Asia for SociologyRegional Ranking
- Two-year Master's programProgram Duration
- Focus on Asia-Pacific researchResearch Focus
This two-year Master of Social Sciences (M.Soc.Sci) programme is designed for students seeking advanced research training, either after gaining some work experience or to prepare for doctoral studies and an academic career. The Department of Sociology and Anthropology at NUS is highly regarded, consistently ranking among the top globally and first in Asia. Our faculty possess diverse research interests with a strong focus on the sociology and anthropology of Asia, including specific research on Singaporean society, as well as other Asian regions like China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asian countries. Key research areas encompass ageing, demography, health, family, gender, media, migration, politics, race, social networks, and urbanism.
Curriculum
To complete the Master of Social Sciences in Sociology, you are required to successfully complete 5 courses and write an original research thesis. A minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 (equivalent to a B grade) is necessary.
- Year 1
- Sociological TheorySC6102
- Graduate Research MethodsSC5101
- Quantitative Methods or Qualitative MethodsSC5102 or SC5103
- Graduate Research SeminarSC5770
- Elective Course
Careers
This program is designed to prepare you for scholarly research, teaching, and applied work in sociology and anthropology. Graduates are well-equipped for doctoral studies, academic positions, research roles in public and private sectors, and various professional careers requiring advanced analytical and research skills.
- Researcher
- Academic
- Policy Analyst
- Sociologist
- Anthropologist
- Community Development Officer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Social Sciences in Sociology?
- You need a good undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (equivalent to a B grade). It is also recommended to suggest a potential thesis advisor during your application.
- How long does the Master of Social Sciences in Sociology programme take to complete?
- The Master of Social Sciences in Sociology is a two-year program.
- What is the structure of the Master of Social Sciences in Sociology programme?
- To complete the program, you must successfully finish 5 courses and write an original research thesis, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- What are the career prospects after completing this Master's degree?
- Graduates can pursue careers as researchers, academics, policy analysts, sociologists, anthropologists, or community development officers, and are well-prepared for doctoral studies.
- Where can I find detailed information on tuition fees and living costs?
- Specific tuition fees and estimated living costs are not provided on the program page. Please visit the NUS Registrar's website and the NUS Graduate School website for detailed and up-to-date information.
- Are there any scholarship opportunities available?
- NUS Graduate Scholarships are available, offering tuition fee support and a stipend. These are typically awarded based on academic merit, and you should check the NUS Graduate School website for specific details and deadlines.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA good undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (equivalent to a B grade).
Students are encouraged to identify and suggest a potential thesis advisor during their application. While not binding, this helps in the initial assessment. You can change advisors later, but must nominate a new one by the end of the first semester. Advisors must be faculty members of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology. Independent Study Courses (ISC) can be taken as an elective, but the topic must not overlap with your thesis and requires approval from the department. The ISC supervisor cannot be your thesis advisor.
Fees
Tuition (international)Specific tuition fees for international students are not provided on the program page. Please refer to the NUS Registrar's website for the most current fee information.
Tuition (home)Specific tuition fees for domestic students are not provided on the program page. Please refer to the NUS Registrar's website for the most current fee information.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program page. Information on accommodation and general living expenses in Singapore can be found on the NUS Graduate School website.
For detailed and up-to-date fee information, including tuition fees and estimated living costs, please visit the NUS Registrar's website and the NUS Graduate School website.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all required documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency if applicable. Prepare a statement of purpose and identify potential thesis advisors.
2. Complete Online ApplicationFill out the online application form via the NUS Graduate School portal. Submit details about your academic background, work experience, and research interests.
3. Submit ApplicationUpload all supporting documents to the application portal and submit your application before the deadline.
4. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by the department and the Graduate School. Successful applicants will be notified of the admission decision.
Scholarships
NUS Graduate ScholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
The Department of Sociology and Anthropology is part of the National University of Singapore (NUS), a globally recognized institution.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Social Sciences in Sociology?
+
You need a good undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (equivalent to a B grade). It is also recommended to suggest a potential thesis advisor during your application.
How long does the Master of Social Sciences in Sociology programme take to complete?
+
The Master of Social Sciences in Sociology is a two-year program.
What is the structure of the Master of Social Sciences in Sociology programme?
+
To complete the program, you must successfully finish 5 courses and write an original research thesis, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0.
What are the career prospects after completing this Master's degree?
+
Graduates can pursue careers as researchers, academics, policy analysts, sociologists, anthropologists, or community development officers, and are well-prepared for doctoral studies.
Where can I find detailed information on tuition fees and living costs?
+
Specific tuition fees and estimated living costs are not provided on the program page. Please visit the NUS Registrar's website and the NUS Graduate School website for detailed and up-to-date information.
Are there any scholarship opportunities available?
+
NUS Graduate Scholarships are available, offering tuition fee support and a stipend. These are typically awarded based on academic merit, and you should check the NUS Graduate School website for specific details and deadlines.