MSc Social Policy at University of Strathclyde

Programme overview

Postgraduate course developing knowledge of key social policy issues and the factors that shape social needs and societal responses, with advanced training in research methods. It prepares students for independent research and further study at PhD level.

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

Research methods classes (research design, quantitative or qualitative methods), compulsory classes in Welfare concepts and ideas and Approaches to welfare, optional classes such as Policy Analysis, Inequalities in Social Policy, Feminism, Gender & Violence and Comparative Social Policy & Welfare Systems, and 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 also suits those moving to further postgraduate study.

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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