Vision & Goals

Vission

The M.A. (Sociology-Anthropology) degree underlines the many connections between Sociology and Anthropology, and assists students to research contemporary Cambodia. Students learn to apply sociological and anthropological concepts and theories to understand the processes of rapid change in society, culture and economy currently facing the developing world. In particular, the M.A. (Sociology-Anthropology) course strengthens students' critical thinking skills, building their capacity to recognize the forces

underlying social development, identify indicators of good governance and understand the global politics of development. The Masters program also trains students to document social phenomena with standard scientific methods, and develop their ability to apply sociological theories to concrete situations. With this training, students are empowered to face the "challenge of identifying the causes of economic and social imbalances and of presenting feasible operative options capable of ensuring a future of solidarity and hope for all."

This understanding of Cambodia’s cultural and social context can lead to students’ active involvement in well-researched, sustainable programs which assist individuals, communities and societies during periods of social and economic change.

The degree’s focus on rural development trains students in a major issue facing Cambodia’s development. It builds their skills in the field of development studies, and trains them to assist vulnerable individuals and communities, who are forced to cope with rapid changes caused by the dual processes of modernization and globalization.

Goals

The Master of Arts (Sociology-Anthropology: Rural Development) prioritizes social and anthropological research activities and theory acquisition, encouraging analytical, critical, systematic and constructivist ways of thinking, rather than a fixed and essentialist mode to approach socio-cultural phenomena. It aspires to strengthen students’ ability to relate theory to social reality, and so discover, understand and compare Cambodian society. It also aims to promote an open academic environment, in which sociology students can respond to the many challenges of Cambodia’s changing socioeconomic

situation and broaden their horizons to regional and worldwide socio-cultural issues and perspectives.

The degree program seeks to develop students’ social commitment towards the Mekong Region and Cambodian society in general, with the goal of reducing inequalities of those vulnerable minority groups who are impacted upon by rapid socio-cultural change.

In addition, the Master of Arts program seeks to foster the development of new, competent staff for the Royal University of Phnom Penh, in order to strengthen and consolidate interdisciplinary academic performance and quality of teaching at accepted standards.