Sociology (Urban Studies) MA
Goldsmiths, University of London

Key Course Facts
Course Description
This Masters draws on urban sociology to explore the meaning of cities, urban life and culture.
The programme covers topics including the politics of gentrification, urban community, infrastructure and the intricacies of urban culture, alongside lectures on urban policy, food politics, poverty and migration.
You will also zoom out to consider the broader meaning of urban sociology and its ongoing contribution to social science. With over two-thirds of the global population destined to live in cities by 2050, there has never been a more important time to research and understand urban life.
Why study MA Sociology (Urban Studies) at Goldsmiths
Critically engage with urban work The degree brings together social analysis, activism, and inventive research methods to critically engage with various dimensions of urban work – from policy-making, research and cultural interventions, to the management of social programmes and institutions.
Take a multi-disciplinary approach The MA is distinguished by a focus on experimental empirical research and covers the following disciplines: sociology, geography, anthropology, architecture, cultural studies, history, fine arts, media and communications.
Experience research-led teaching We use research-led teaching to explore the importance of sociological knowledge in understanding cities, urban economies, culture, politics and social justice.
Analyse and explore spaces and places You’ll analyse the organisation of contemporary cities, including the built environment, commerce, housing, culture, political and social infrastructures. You'll also explore how distributions of wealth, power and culture in spaces and places are constituted through political, material and social processes.
Study in a unique urban setting We use our location in South East London to explore issues of city-making and urban change through hands-on methodological training.
Join a lively academic community You’ll be part of a lively community of researchers and urban practitioners at the Centre for Urban and Community Research and will join students who have a range of experiences and interests in communication, management, politics, design and cultural industries.
Entry Requirements / Admissions
Requirements for international students / English requirements
IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)
-
- 6.5
- Graduate Degrees
- (minimum 6.0 in Writing)
-
- 6.5
- Undergraduate Degrees
- (minimum 6.0 in Writing)
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still be able to join Sociology (Urban Studies), MA.
You should have (or expect to be awarded) an undergraduate degree of at least upper second class standard in a relevant/related subject. You might also be considered for some programmes if you aren’t a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, but have relevant experience and can show that you have the ability to work at postgraduate level. If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 to study this programme.
Costs
Average student cost of living in London
Rent | £518 |
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) | £50 |
Supermarket shopping | £81 |
Clothing | £35 |
Eating out | £33 |
Alcohol | £27 |
Takeaways / food deliveries | £30 |
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) | £24 |
Holidays and weekend trips | £78 |
Transport within city | £17 |
Self-care / sports | £20 |
Stationary / books | £13 |
Mobile phone / internet | £13 |
Cable TV / streaming | £7 |
Insurance | £51 |
Other | £95 |
Average student cost of living | £1092 |
London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.
University Rankings
Positions of Goldsmiths, University of London in top UK and global rankings.
See all university rankings of Goldsmiths, University of London
What students say about studying Sociology in the UK?
About Goldsmiths, University of London
Founded in 1891, Goldsmiths, University of London, is located in the South-Eastern area of London known as New Cross. The facilities are impressive at this university, providing students with Art, TV, and Radio studios, as well as a host of other resources aimed at optimising the experience for students on any of their courses. With Goldsmith’s exceptionally active event calendar, making new connections is easy, giving learners a way to socialise without even having to step foot off campus.
Where is this programme taught



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