The sociology of medicine and science is one of the most rapidly growing areas within the field of social science. This innovative MSc combines the inter-disciplinary approaches of Medical Sociology, Science and Technology Studies with Media and Communications to critically examine the cultures of medicine and bioscience and their interrelationships with society. The purpose of the programme is to enable students to combine training in key theories and concepts with the study of real world problems and issues. The programme will enable students to apply these theories and concepts critically, equipping them with the skills necessary to engage with debates in medicine, bioscience, and society. We offer a unique and exciting approach to this field which draws on a large team of leading researchers across departments and Colleges within Brunel that few UK universities can match. Aims The central aim is to develop the student’s understanding of the factors which shape the emergence and development of the links between Medicine, Bioscience and Society and deepen that understanding through the study of a selection of key areas. Specifically, the programme aims to: * enable students to critically apply the key theories and concepts used in science studies and medical sociology to the shaping of ‘biomedical societies'. * equip students with the sociological skills necessary to engage with the key debates in the interrelated fields of medicine and science. * broaden and deepen the student’s appreciation of common problems in the social study of medicine, bioscience and biotechnology and to explore the ways these are addressed in different societies. * convey an understanding of the technical and philosophical aspects of multidisciplinary research on medicine, bioscience and society. * provide a stimulating teaching and learning environment in a small and friendly Department and enable students to benefit from first hand exposure to world leading staff research. * provide an open and supportive learning environment by encouraging students to draw on their own experiences and relate them to the courses. * offer skilled supervision to enable students to attain a high level of competence in the design and execution of a biomedical social science studies research project which forms a major element of their assessment.

* We aim to develop 'distinctive graduates’ through a Master’s programme with an international focus. * The Master’s encourages critical thinking skills and effective independent learning through a variety of student-centered teaching methods, styles of assessment, and a major research project. * The Master’s is relevant to those who work in areas such as regulation, healthcare, or science, and aims to encourage knowledge transfer (from ‘University to work’ and vice versa) by encouraging a critical engagement with the worlds of bioscience and medicine. * The programme adopts a research-led approach to independent learning. The MSc maps directly onto the internationally significant research of our Centre for Biomedicine and Society (CBAS). * The MSc enables students to debate a range of topics that are current and pertinent to the healthcare and science and technology sectors and improves graduate employability. Careers * Further study – PhD in a similar subject. * Further professional study e.g. as a bridge to a degree in Medicine or Dentistry. * A wide range of careers in the health and bioscience sectors – potential jobs after completing this course include clinical trials manager in a pharmaceutical company, research associate in clinical and non-clinical research studies at the interface of medicine and society, science writer, roles within medical charity organisations, and many more. At Brunel we provide many opportunities and experiences within your degree programme and beyond – work-based learning, professional support services, volunteering, mentoring, sports, arts, clubs, societies, and much, much more – and we encourage you to make the most of them, so that you can make the most of yourself. » More about Employability