University of Essex campus

Arts & Humanities

MSc (by Dissertation) Social Policy at University of Essex

University of Essex, United Kingdom

Programme overview

A research degree (MSc by Dissertation) in which students undertake a 40,000-word dissertation on a social policy topic. It suits those interested in how social policy is developed and implemented, why some policies work and others do not, and relationships between groups in the policy process.

Faculty: School of Health and Social Care  |  Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time  |  Intake: October 2027  |  Study mode: full-time; part-time  |  Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

No taught structure: a single compulsory 0-credit research component built around a 40,000-word dissertation, supported by dissertation workshops, access to Masters-level research methods modules and the Proficio research training scheme.

Career pathways

Graduates have taken up clinical and management posts in NHS Trusts, hospitals and care organisations, and in local and county councils.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A Masters degree, or equivalent, in a relevant discipline such as a health science or a social science, or evidence of advanced research skills developed through an alternative route. A well-developed research proposal is essential. Applicants are normally interviewed, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department. English language for international applicants: IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent.

International applicants: GBP 21,675 a year. International fee; increases for each academic year of study Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time

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