University College London MSc Programme in Social Policy and Social Research 2017, UK

Social Policy and Social Research MSc

The MSc in Social Policy and Social Research combines theoretical understanding of the policy process with advanced methodologically focused training, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to work in complex and challenging policy contexts. This degree has ESRC 1+3 training recognition, meaning it stands alone as an MSc but will also prepare you for doctoral research.

Key information

Programme starts

September 2017

Modes and duration

Full time: 1 year

Part time: 2 years

Flexible: up to 4 years

Tuition fees (2017/18)

UK/EU: £7,925 (FT)£3,930 (PT)
Overseas: £17,190 (FT)£8,470 (PT)

Application dates

All applicants

Open: 3 October 2016

Close: 28 July 2017

Note on fees: The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Current Students website. Fees for flexible, modular study are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session.

Location: London, Bloomsbury

Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelors' degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in a social science subject, such as sociology, psychology, social policy, economics, or history. If you do not meet these requirements, other considerations, such as relevant work experience, may be taken into account.

English language requirements

If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.

The English language level for this programme is: Good

Students are equipped with the theoretical and conceptual tools and empirical evidence necessary for investigating social policy and policy-making, including critical assessment of the role of research in policy development. Graduates will be able to apply this knowledge and understanding and analytical and methodological skills to conduct social research in different policy contexts.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of three core modules (60 credits), optional modules (60 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules

Understanding the Policy Process
Evidence for Policy and Practice
Social Theory and the Study of Contemporary Social Problems

Optional modules

Students select optional modules from the following list.

Introduction to Data Analysis
Introduction to Regression Analysis
Introduction to Qualitative Research
Systematic Reviews Design and Planning
Survey Design
Impact Evaluation Methods
Longitudinal Data and Analysis
Using STATA Efficiently and Effectively
Advanced Qualitative Methods
Systematic Reviews for Complex Policy Issues
Research Engagement, Participation and Impact
Systematic Reviews: Meta-Analysis, Qualitative Synthesis and Mixed-Methods Synthesis

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 12,000 words. Workshops and online resources help prepare students for the dissertation.

Teaching and learning

A rich variety of teaching of methods are used, including lectures combined with seminars. In some modules, students are given the opportunity to develop presentational skills through group projects. The programme includes both face-to-face and online components. Assessment is through coursework assignments and a 12,000-word dissertation.

Applications

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

Who can apply?

This programme is suited to graduates who want to start a career in social policy analysis, advocacy or research within the public sector or a socially-orientated NGO, and those already working in policy environments who want to improve their skills and career prospects. It is also useful preparation for study for a PhD.

What are we looking for?

When we assess your application we would like to learn:

why you want to study Social Policy and Social Research at graduate level
why you want to study Social Policy and Social Research at UCL
what particularly attracts you to the chosen programme
how your academic and professional background meets the demands of this challenging programme
where you would like to go professionally with your degree

For more information please click "Further Official Information" below.

University College London MSc Programme in Social Policy and Social Research 2017, UK

Deadline:

July 28, 2017

Disciplines:

Policy, Security, Sociology