MSc Society and Space at University of Bristol

Programme overview

We urgently need new ways of thinking about society and space, as we face the profound global challenges of climate change, overconsumption, energy transition, technological change and political conflict. Ranked in the top 15 globally for Geography (QS World University Subject Ranking 2026), the MSc in Society and Space delivers a rigorous grounding in social theory, alongside specialist training in qualitative and experimental research methods to build the links between these challenges. Benefits of studying this programme: Develop advanced theoretical grounding in contemporary human geography, including decolonial, feminist, and affect-oriented approaches.

Faculty: Faculty of Science and Engineering | Department: School of Geographical Sciences | Duration: One year full time, Two years part-time. Part-time study requires daytime weekday attendance | Study mode: full-time, part-time | Intake: September 2027 | Location: Bristol, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The programme's mandatory units introduce key ideas and techniques to give you a rigorous grounding in social theory and mainstream debates and techniques in human geography. Your optional units provide the opportunity to shape your MSc programme to suit your research interests. Your taught units offer a thorough training in qualitative and experimental research methods, with options to develop specialist research skills in GIS in preparation for your independent research dissertation, carried out during the summer months and supported by an academic supervisor.

Career pathways

In addition to the University's wide range of career services, the School of Geographical Sciences offers dedicated coaching sessions and workshops to support students' future careers. The School also regularly organizes alumni events to help bridge the current students with past graduates working in various sectors.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree in any arts, humanities, social science, science or professional degree (medicine, architecture, planning or engineering). We will also consider applicants with other degree subjects on a case-by-case basis with evidence of at least six months relevant paid or unpaid work experience in think tanks, public sector research agencies, work in social/political research institutes, the cultural sector, or a foundation degree or diploma in social sciences, philosophy, humanities, cultural studies, or social theory. We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. English language: profile level E.

Domestic applicants: GBP 15,000 a year (2027/28). full-time per year; 2027 entry, subject to annual review. Source

International applicants: GBP 33,200 a year (2027/28). full-time per year; 2027 entry, subject to annual review. Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: One year full time, Two years part-time. Part-time study requires daytime weekday attendance

Apply through the official page: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/start-application/

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