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Khon Kaen University

Master of Arts Program in Sociology

SDG Alignment for Master of Arts Program in Sociology

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Master of Arts Program in Sociology is fundamentally aligned with the principles of sustainable development by producing graduates equipped to analyze and address complex social issues. The program's philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, research, and a deep understanding of social dynamics, which are essential for creating inclusive, just, and resilient societies. This focus makes the program a powerful contributor to multiple Sustainable Development Goals. The curriculum is a cornerstone for SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by exploring the social foundations of governance, justice, and social movements. Through its in-depth study of social inequalities, gender, and marginalization, it directly addresses SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). The program's focus on urban and rural development, community, and social organization is central to achieving SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). By examining the sociology of work and industry, it contributes to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). As a research-intensive master's degree, it is a clear embodiment of SDG 4 (Quality Education) and, by its very nature, fosters the partnerships and knowledge exchange vital for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

SDG Related Course(s)

SDG 1 Icon SDG 1: No Poverty

Alignment Summary: This curriculum addresses the root causes of poverty by critically examining social structures, inequality, and development policies. Courses provide the analytical tools to understand how poverty is created and perpetuated, equipping graduates to contribute to effective poverty reduction strategies and social welfare policies.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
202721Sociology of DevelopmentDirectly addresses the multifaceted nature of poverty by analyzing development theories and their impact on social and economic structures, contributing to the formulation of effective poverty reduction policies (Target 1.A, 1.B).
202731Sociology of InequalityContributes to ending poverty by examining the social, economic, and political mechanisms that create and sustain inequality, providing a foundation for policies aimed at social protection (Target 1.3).

SDG 4 Icon SDG 4: Quality Education

Alignment Summary: As an advanced master's program, this curriculum is a prime example of quality education. It provides inclusive and specialized training in social theory and research, equipping graduates with the critical thinking and analytical skills needed for high-level careers in academia, research, and policy-making. The emphasis on independent research and seminars fosters a culture of lifelong learning.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
202703Advanced Sociological Research MethodologyDirectly supports Target 4.4 by equipping students with advanced research skills that are essential for high-level employment and innovation in social science fields.
202891Seminar in Sociology 1Promotes lifelong learning opportunities (Target 4.3) by requiring students to engage with, analyze, and present on the latest research and theoretical debates in sociology.
202892Seminar in Sociology 2Enhances lifelong learning (Target 4.3) and develops superior analytical and critical thinking skills (Target 4.4) through sustained engagement with complex sociological topics.
202897 / 202899Independent Study / ThesisRepresents a capstone lifelong learning opportunity (Target 4.3), where students conduct original research, create new knowledge, and acquire advanced skills for employment and innovation (Target 4.4).

SDG 5 Icon SDG 5: Gender Equality

Alignment Summary: The program directly addresses gender equality by providing a specialized course on the sociology of gender. This allows for a deep and critical examination of how gender shapes social life, institutions, and power relations, empowering graduates to contribute to policies and actions that promote gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
202732Sociology of GenderDirectly supports the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and girls (Target 5.1) and ensures their full participation in leadership and public life (Target 5.5) by critically analyzing the social construction of gender and its impact on inequality.

SDG 8 Icon SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Alignment Summary: The curriculum supports decent work and inclusive economic growth by examining the social dimensions of industrialization, labor, and economic development. Graduates are equipped with a critical understanding of how economic systems function and impact society, enabling them to contribute to policies that promote fair labor practices and sustainable economic growth.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
202722Sociology of IndustryContributes to achieving higher levels of economic productivity (Target 8.2) by analyzing the social organization of industries and the dynamics of labor, which is essential for creating decent work.
202721Sociology of DevelopmentSupports policies that foster entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation, and encourage the growth of micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (Target 8.3).

SDG 10 Icon SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Alignment Summary: This program is fundamentally focused on understanding and reducing inequalities. Through dedicated courses on the sociology of inequality and gender, it provides a robust analytical framework for examining the root causes of social, economic, and political marginalization, preparing graduates to develop and advocate for policies that promote social inclusion and equity.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
202731Sociology of InequalityDirectly addresses the need to empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all (Target 10.2) by critically examining the structures and processes that create and perpetuate inequality.
202732Sociology of GenderFocuses on reducing inequalities by analyzing how gender intersects with other forms of discrimination, supporting the empowerment of women, girls, and marginalized gender identities (Target 10.2, 10.3).

SDG 11 Icon SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Alignment Summary: The program contributes to the creation of inclusive and sustainable communities by providing specialized courses in urban and rural sociology. Graduates are equipped with the theoretical and analytical tools to understand the social dynamics of human settlements, engage in participatory planning, and contribute to the development of resilient and equitable communities.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
202733Urban SociologyContributes to making cities inclusive, safe, and sustainable (Target 11.3) by analyzing the social structures, challenges, and dynamics of urban life, which is essential for effective urban planning and policy.
202734Rural SociologySupports sustainable rural development and strengthens urban-rural linkages (Target 11.A) by examining the social and economic transformations occurring in rural communities.

SDG 16 Icon SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Alignment Summary: This program is central to building peaceful, just, and strong institutions. By studying the sociology of power, social movements, and governance, the curriculum provides a critical understanding of how institutions are formed, maintained, and transformed. Graduates are prepared to contribute to the development of more effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
202741Political SociologyContributes to building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions by analyzing the social foundations of political power, governance, and the state (Target 16.6, 16.7).
202742Sociology of Social MovementsSupports responsive, inclusive, and participatory decision-making (Target 16.7) by examining how collective action and social movements advocate for social change and hold institutions accountable.

SDG 17 Icon SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Alignment Summary: The program fosters partnerships for sustainable development through its emphasis on research and knowledge sharing. The seminar and thesis components require students to engage with the global academic community, presenting their work and building upon international research, which is fundamental to the knowledge-based partnerships needed to achieve all SDGs.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
202891Seminar in Sociology 1Promotes partnerships (Target 17.16) by requiring students to engage with and present on the latest global research in their field, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and collaboration.
202892Seminar in Sociology 2Enhances the global partnership for sustainable development by having candidates present and discuss cutting-edge research, contributing to the international body of sociological knowledge (Target 17.6).
202899ThesisRepresents a significant contribution to global partnerships (Target 17.17) by creating new, publishable knowledge that is shared internationally to help solve critical social challenges.