Sociology
Master Degree

Course Overview

The aim of the Master's Degree in Sociology is to offer specialized training in the field of sociology, based on a solid theoretical, methodological and instrumental formation capable of substantiating the scientific and professional practices of the Masters in Sociology in two areas of specialization: Regional Development and Human Resources. Developing skills oriented to employability, career progression in the fields of sociological intervention, and for the pursuit of 3rd cycle studies (PhD), the Master in Sociology is able to: A) Conceptualize social reality with sociological thinking; B) To ensure the management of the human resources of organizations and territories, from a development perspective; C) To design and / or coordinate studies of fundamental or applied sociological research in the organizational and societal domain; D) Plan and evaluate programs and projects of social and organizational intervention; E) Carry out studies of social and prospective diagnosis for organizations and territories; F) Provide technical advice and / or specialized training to companies and other organizations in the areas of human resources, organizational and territorial development; G) Integrate and energize discussion networks and research networks.

Organic Unit: School of Social Sciences

Duration: 4 Semesters/120 ECTS credits (54 required and 12 optional in curricular units)

Language: Portuguese

Regime: Day classes

Specialization Areas:

Regional Development
Human Resources

Career Prospects

In addition to the general competences (see "presentation"), the Master in Sociology specializing in Regional Development, is still able to: • To problematize the development of the territory through the sociological theories; • Evaluate supranational, national and regional public policies that frame the development of territories; • Use "tools" of sociological intervention in the territories. In turn, the Master in Sociology specialist in Human Resources is still able to: • Use tools to support and drive processes of social and organizational innovation and human resources development in work organizations; • Choose and implement human resource management techniques that allow it to intervene in managing people in an organization. Thus, the 2nd Cycle of Studies in Sociology prepares for the exercise of the profession of sociologist in organizations and companies of different areas and sectors: local authorities, deconcentrated public administration, local development associations, secondary and higher education institutions, social solidarity institutions, vocational schools and other education and vocational training organizations, private companies and consultancy. The possibility of performing an Internship in the 2nd year is an important mechanism to demonstrate competences, consolidate acquired knowledges and enhance students' employability (see "Internship").

Specific Entry Requirements

The Master in Sociology is directed to students holding a degree in Sociology or in Social Sciences and Humanities, granted by portuguese or foreign universities. Preference is given to those holding a licenciatura degree (or legal equivalent to the degree) having a final grade equal or superior to 14 values (in 20).