Master of Arts in Social Theory (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis)
Course code: 102KH
The Masters program allows students to combine coursework with extensive independent research in social theory. The thesis should demonstrate a critical application of specialist knowledge and make an independent contribution to existing scholarship in the area of research. Candidates may advance to the Doctor of Philosophy degree after successful completion of the masters or may apply to convert to the PhD at an earlier stage. An honours grade of at least H2A (75%) average must be attained in the respective thesis and advanced seminar components of the course to qualify for the award of the masters degree.
Course coordinator: Dr John Rundell
School: Ashworth Program in Social Theory, School of Social and Environmental Enquiry
Course objectives:
Students who complete the masters will:
. demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of at least one significant tradition in social theory;
acquire knowledge of some major contemporary debates regarding their subject area;
demonstrate a critical engagement with theoretical and substantive literature in their areas of study;
establish a basis for further postgraduate research.
Entry requirement:
The minimum entry requirement is:
a four year BA (Honours) degree with a research component or equivalent in the appropriate area of study, or closely related area, with an honours result at least equivalent to an H2B (70%) at the University of Melbourne.
Applicants must include a thesis proposal of 600 words with their application. The primary basis for selection is academic merit, however, consideration will also be given to the quality of the thesis proposal, research potential, and the availability of an appropriate supervisor. Academic references may be required to assess the applicant's eligibility.
Course intake: Applicants may commence their candidature at any stage throughout the academic year, subject to the availability of places. If undertaking coursework or advanced seminars students should check subject availability and semester dates when planning their application.
Applications: Applications can be submitted at any stage throughout the academic year.
Course structure:
Duration: 1.5 years full-time / 3 years part-time
Thesis 20,000-22,000 words
two elective subjects
Total 100 points - subjects are 12.5 points each, unless indicated otherwise.
Thesis subject:
136-519 Shorter Thesis - Social Theory (75 points) (year long)
Elective subjects:
136-532 Reading Texts in Social Theory
136-533 Theories of Modernity
136-534 Imagined Societies
Candidates may substitute one of their electives with a subject offered by another school, with the prior approval of the course coordinator. Only fifth year subjects can be selected. No student may repeat a unit undertaken as part of an Honours or MA Preliminary course.
Subject descriptions:
Details of subjects are provided in the Undergraduate Handbook