Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The Master in Applied Sociological Research at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is a unique programme in the UAE, designed for those passionate about understanding and shaping society. This degree equips students with the skills to analyse social issues, design and conduct impactful research, and communicate findings effectively. Graduates are prepared to meet the evolving needs of policymakers, government entities, and professionals in consultancy and research sectors.
This programme is designed for students and professionals seeking to enhance their skills in social research methods to develop expertise crucial for the UAE and the surrounding region. UAE society has transformed tremendously over the past decades. While the economy has flourished, new social issues and challenges have emerged in areas such as demography, urbanism, education, media, health, and family dynamics. These social factors must be analysed and understood from a social sciences perspective.
Being a social scientist demands in-depth knowledge of key sociological theories, methods, and research techniques to explore the social world effectively.
One of the primary challenges for research and informed policymaking in the GCC region is the production and analysis of accurate and reliable social data. Competencies such as statistical analysis (using specialised software including R and SPSS), survey design, and interview techniques are essential in this field.
The programme is organised over two years and integrates methodological training with substantive research topics of social and sociological relevance, providing:
Insight into contemporary social issues through courses on substantive questions (globalisation, youth, family, economy and digital transformation, etc.)
Various opportunities of specialisation on the Gulf and UAE societies (gulf studies courses, own research experience and research seminars)
In-depth methodological training through practical experience applying theoretical and methodological knowledge in both quantitative and qualitative research methods (lab sessions, project-based teaching, individual research)
The faculty at SUAD comprises distinguished professors and lecturers from France, recognised globally for their expertise in social research. The Paris faculty is affiliated with leading research centres in France, particularly the GEMASS (Groupe d’étude des méthodes et de l’analyse sociologique de la Sorbonne) *
