MA Genetics, Culture and Public Policy and MA Genetics and Society (Research) 12 months full-time
Introduction
The Cesagen Masters programmes at Lancaster provide a unique basis for further research and study in the social sciences, focused on the social impact of genomics and related biosciences. The programmes respond to the dramatic increase in public awareness of, and concern about, the social and ethical impact of genetic technologies. The programmes capitalise on the expertise assembled in Cesagen in the ethical, social, economic and cultural dimensions of the biosciences, and provide specialised teaching and research training in this important emerging field.
During 2007 the taught Cesagen MA at Lancaster in Genetics, Culture and Society became associated with a new MA programme based in the Department of Sociology. The MA in Genetics, Culture and Public Policy is part of an exciting new programme in the Sociology department called Society, Technology and Nature, that also includes the MAs in Technoscience and Culture, and Environment, Culture and Public Policy. All three pathways share the following core modules:
- Science, Technology and Society
- Policy, Publics and Expertise
- Researching Technoscience.
These core modules are taught by internationally recognised leading scholars in the field of science studies. All courses are taught by Sociology and Cesagen staff. The further range of modules, most of which will normally be available in any given year, includes:
- Animals, ethics and biotechnology
- Genetics for social scientists
- Genomics and society (core for Genetics, Culture and Public Policy)
- Social and ethical issues in human genetics and biotechnology
Modules in other departments can also be taken by Sociology students, for example in Politics, Philosophy and Health Research.
The MA Genetics and Society (Research) is recognised by the ESRC as providing required training in social science research methodologies; students who undertake this programme will therefore be eligible to apply to the ESRC for +3 PhD research funding.
Assessment
Assessment is based on coursework and a dissertation of 15-20,000 words. In the summer term and over the summer vacation, you will research and write the dissertation, working with a member of the research and academic staff on a specialist topic of your choice. The model for your dissertation is an academic research paper. The problem is formulated by you, in discussion with your supervisor, and the dissertation includes a review of relevant prior literature and justification of the choice of problem and approach in intellectual and practical terms. For most students, the dissertation is completed over the summer. Working on the dissertation should give you the opportunity:
- to work closely with one or more members of staff on a topic of interest to you
- to acquire new skills and broaden your horizons
- to get your dissertation published in a scientific journal, if it is significant enough.
Past dissertations on the MA have included:
- Can genes make us who we are?
- The diversity-free society
- Genetics, identity & conflict: the case of the Israelis and Palestinians
- From Mendel to UNESCO: on the impact of new genomic technologies
Entry Requirements
To register for these MAs, we normally look for a single or combined degree (with an upper Second or First) in sociology, or in another area relevant to the sociological study of the biosciences, notably geography, politics, economics, anthropology, history or philosophy. Students with relevant science backgrounds are also encouraged to apply. We also take appropriate account of other qualifications or work experience that equips a person for advanced study in this whole field.
Community
There is a lively postgraduate community within the Centre, with several ESRC funded PhD studentships and more anticipated to be available in future years. The MAs are based in Lancaster's Department of Sociology. The Department has a large postgraduate community and a wide range of staff research expertise, with particular strengths in science studies and social theory.
