Institute of Sociology (IfS)

Profile

The academic profile of the Institute of Sociology (IfS) is oriented towards the questions of "modernisation and social integration" relevant to Germany and Europe. The courses offered and the research foci on social transformation processes and modern social conflicts resulting from social-structural changes, economic and cultural globalisation and migration movements. For example, you will find courses on the transformation of the working and gainful society, on the changing social inequalities and the resulting socialisation conditions with their consequences for educational participation and social participation, and on the intensification of conflicts between "natives" and "immigrants". This profiling of content also forms the framework for 2-subject BA sociology. In addition, the Master's programme in Sociology offers the opportunity to deepen the study with a focus on content and methodology (social structure analysis of modern societies). Since the winter semester 2008-09, students with a qualified Master's degree (or equivalent) can also do their doctorate at the Graduate School of Sociology. The general aim of our courses is to impart sociological knowledge and knowledge based on theory and empirical support, which also form the basis for success on the labour market after graduation. The aim is to overcome the separation between social-philosophical theory and empirical research. This manifests itself on the one hand in a theoretical reflection that is close to experience and focused on current social problems, and on the other hand in the offer of a broad spectrum of methods that does justice to the specific questions of sociology. This focus in the area of methods is further deepened in the Master's programme in Sociology through teaching research projects. The aim is to achieve an interlocking of research and teaching that will enable graduates of the Master's programme to work in university and non-university research institutions in a special way. You can find out more about the wide range of courses offered by the institute on its website. In addition, a service office has been set up at the institute to provide targeted study counselling, internships and career services, as well as a coordination office to answer questions relevant to examinations and to support the booking of study achievements. In addition to such services, the Institute of Sociology is characterised by the fact that committed students are given the opportunity to help shape the life of the institute and the courses it offers. In this sense, the Institute does not see itself simply as a teaching institute, but as a shared space of experience that is jointly shaped and managed by learners and teachers. We are of the opinion that especially in the course of the reorganization of the universities and research landscape, opportunities for participation and co-designing are opening up for students as well. Not only is active student council work suitable for this, but it also requires personal commitment to one's own study interests and topics.

Parent organisational units

• University of Münster
  • Schools and Faculties
    • FB06 - Faculty of Educational and Social Science