MA Social Policy

Our online MA in Social Policy will help you understand and analyse some of the most pressing issues faced by the world today.

You’ll explore how cultural, demographic, economic, governmental, and technological changes shape social policy across the globe, and develop the skills needed to carry out social research informed by debates on methodology, epistemology, ethics, and politics.

Why study with us?

• Benefit from the insight of our experienced academics through regular discussion, feedback, assessments and live webinars (recorded so they can be watched back at any time)

• Receive tailored support and resources to sharpen your independent learning, giving you the skills to further your own development long after graduation

• Explore contemporary issues with modules that will provide you with a framework of knowledge and the analytical skills needed to thrive in this field

Learning Outcomes

This programme has been carefully designed to provide higher-level critical thinking, awareness and theoretical knowledge in the study of poverty and social inequality as social phenomena.

Upon completing the MA in Social Policy, you’ll be able to:

• Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the challenges involved in undertaking social policy research
• Identify, examine, and make use of research and other appropriate material for the analysis of social policy issues
• Use the subject specific and cognitive skills you’ll develop in the critical analysis of social policy issues
• Plan, conduct, and report on your own social policy research projects

Module Overview

• The Making of Social Policy

During this introductory module, you’ll be introduced to several concepts, techniques, and theories employed in developing social policy systems and analysis. You’ll learn how to apply this knowledge to specific social policy issues, and will also dedicate time to researching the various dilemmas and challenges faced by the welfare state.

• Poverty and Inequality: Conceptualisation, Investigation and Policy Making in Historical and Contemporary Societies

This module will allow you to develop an in-depth understanding of the contexts within which studies and debates on poverty and social inequality have been conducted.

You’ll analyse major investigations into poverty and learn how to identify elements of continuity and change in the study of poverty and social inequality as social phenomena.

• Comparing Welfare States

The aim of this module is to help you expand your knowledge of this field by exploring the dynamics of social policy developments from an international point of view.

You’ll be encouraged to critically evaluate current international social policy trends and issues by drawing upon case studies and a range of theoretical contributions to social policy analysis.

• Themes and Perspectives in Social Research

The studies you’ll take on will provide an overview of crucial issues and debates associated with the production and evaluation of research for practice in social care. You can look forward to extending your own knowledge and understanding of qualitative and quantitative research processes whilst developing your capacity to act as an independent and critical thinker.

• Dissertation

With this final module, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake an in-depth, critical exploration and analysis of an area you are interested in within this field.

Your dissertation can be based on the area of specialisation you hope to enter following graduation, or even a challenge that’s present or relevant to your current place of work.

Examples of previous dissertation topics for on-campus MA Social Policy students include:

• The social impact of the Second World War and the creation of the 'classic' Welfare State
• Is the introduction of Universal Credit causing a decline in mental health?
• Child Protection in England and India: Experience from the last three decades
• Crumbs from the table? The social legacy of the ‘Right to Buy'

How we teach

We offer an interactive mix of weekly webinars, forums, and learning activities to keep you engaged and challenged during your studies with us. However, you’ll also be given the freedom and flexibility to access these resources at your own time, to best fit your schedule.

In addition, we’ll provide guidance on how to identify, locate, and use the online material available in the Library. Comprehensive bibliographies are provided for each module, as are guidelines for when you’ll be expected to produce essays, projects, and your dissertation.

How you're assessed

Throughout the programme there will be a combination of formative and summative assessments. There are no exams.

Formative assessments will typically involve tutor feedback on your presentations and other projects. Summative assessments will typically take place through essays and assessed coursework – your dissertation being one example.

Hear from a graduate

"I was very happy with this course and how it was delivered. It covered all aspects of how policies are made to the important areas of welfare state, social security and social exclusion. I also gained excellent skills in social research methods. I used these skills when writing my dissertation, which has since been used to support a funding bid for the organisation I work for. This has helped me in my role as Chair for Marketing and Fundraising for a charitable organisation." - Rose - MA Social Policy graduate, Chair for Marketing and Fundraising in Voluntary Sector

At least a 2:2 degree in Social Policy or a related discipline such as Economics, Health Studies, History, Politics, or Sociology.

Other disciplines may also be considered.

Upon completing the course and earning your degree, you’ll have the expertise needed to establish a successful career in social welfare provision and public service.

Your degree also opens you up to the prospect of pursuing a PhD.

Some of the positions you could explore include:

• Charity officer
• Civil service administrator
• Health service manager
• Policy officer
• Social researcher