MSc Social Policy (Research Methods) at University of Strathclyde

Programme overview

Postgraduate course combining study of the factors that shape social needs and policy responses with research methods training approved by the ESRC (via the Scottish Graduate School in Social Sciences) as suitable preparation for a social sciences PhD.

Faculty: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences | Department: Department of Social Work and Social Policy | Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Classes include Perspectives on Social Research, Quantitative Methods I, Qualitative Methods, Welfare concepts & ideas, Policy Analysis and optional classes such as Inequalities & Social Policy, Prisons, Power & Punishment and Comparative Social Policy & Welfare Systems, followed by a dissertation, with an optional placement-based dissertation.

Career pathways

Graduates work in business, research and administrative professions, welfare and housing professions, caring and personal service occupations and protective services; the course suits those undertaking research in social and welfare services or progressing to a PhD.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

First-class or second-class honours degree, or international equivalent, in social policy or a related discipline. English language (international applicants): IELTS 6.5 overall with no score below 6.0, or equivalent; tests valid for two years. International applicants who do not meet the academic requirements can progress via the Pre-Masters Preparation Course.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,700 a year (2027/28). Full-time; same fee for Scotland and England, Wales & Northern Ireland Source

International applicants: GBP 24,950 a year (2027/28) Source

Intake: September

Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

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