Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology: Sociology of Policy in Practice

Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology: Sociology of Policy in Practice

Sociology of Policy in Practice is a specialisation of the master's programme Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology and is offered by the Institute of Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology. It is a one year master's programme of 60 ECTS.

This specialisation offers students the opportunity to conduct ethnographic research with an organization in the context of a three-month Policy Oriented Research Internship. A list of Sociology of Policy in Practice Research internships is available on our website. The list is continually updated. In addition, it is possible to request permission to engage in a self-organised a research internship, which will only be granted if it meets the strict requirements specified in the module 'Policy Oriented Research Internships'. Requests for the academic year to come need to be submitted by June 15th.

While students begin with the issues tabled by the research internship provider, they are expected to conduct independent research. This implies, that the research project will always encompass a larger field of enquiry, which encompasses the questions formulated. In the context of a Policy Oriented Research Internship students can work with a NGO, government agency, small or large-scale company, museum or knowledge institute, either in the Netherlands or abroad.

The CADS staff actively encourages and supports students to make use of the technical means available to conduct both ‘ethnography at a distance’ (making video calls and so on), as well as ‘digital ethnography’ (doing research on and in online environments). The CADS Master’s programme also offers the opportunity to join staff members on their own research topics.

Admission and application

For information on admission to the master's programme Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology, specialisation Sociology of Policy in Practice, please check the website.

Note: This Specialisation only starts in September.

Study Support and Advice

Your Study Adviser is your first point of contact if you have questions about the CADS Master programme, your study planning, or study progress.

Career Preparation

Throughout the master’s programme both academic and transferable skills are developed: critical and analytical reading, thinking and writing; verbal, written and audio-visual communication; giving and receiving feedback; teamwork and working independently as well as time-management. During fieldwork, practical research experience is gained and training is provided for skills such as interviewing, observing, intercultural awareness and communication, networking, rapport-building, problem-solving, self-reflection and budgeting.

Besides the coursework the institute of Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology and Study Association Itiwana organise ‘get-togethers’ with alumni, and excursions to relevant organisations.

To fully support CADS students in entering the labour market, the FSW Career Service offers career advice, workshops, and CV checks and assessment of covering letters.

Coördinator career preparation programme CADS: Dr. S.R.J.J. Hölsgens