Postgraduate Courses in Social Sciences
Understand society, shape policy, and drive social change through advanced study of human behavior, culture, and institutions
Why Study Postgraduate Social Sciences?
Social sciences provide critical insights into the complexities of human society, examining everything from individual behavior to global political systems. A postgraduate degree in social sciences equips you with advanced research skills, theoretical knowledge, and analytical capabilities needed to address contemporary social challenges, from inequality and migration to climate change and digital transformation.
In an era of rapid social change, polarization, and global interconnectedness, social scientists play vital roles in government, international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, and private sector research. The UK's strong tradition in social sciences research, combined with its diverse multicultural society, provides an ideal environment for studying complex social phenomena and developing solutions to pressing societal issues.
Postgraduate social sciences programs combine rigorous theoretical foundations with empirical research methods, preparing graduates for careers in policy analysis, social research, international development, and academia. Students engage with cutting-edge debates, conduct original research, and develop expertise in qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The interdisciplinary nature of social sciences enables graduates to work across sectors, applying their analytical skills to diverse professional contexts.
Specialization Areas
Sociology & Social Policy
- • Social Inequality Studies
- • Urban Sociology
- • Health & Social Care Policy
- • Digital Society Research
- • Crime & Justice Studies
Political Science
- • Comparative Politics
- • Political Theory
- • Public Policy Analysis
- • Electoral Studies
- • Governance & Democracy
International Relations
- • Global Security Studies
- • International Development
- • Diplomacy & Foreign Policy
- • Conflict Resolution
- • Global Political Economy
Anthropology & Culture
- • Social Anthropology
- • Medical Anthropology
- • Digital Anthropology
- • Migration Studies
- • Environmental Anthropology
Types of Programs
MSc Social Research
Advanced training in social research methods and theory.
- • ESRC-recognized pathway
- • Quantitative & qualitative methods
- • PhD preparation track
- • Research placement options
MA International Relations
Comprehensive programs in global politics and international affairs.
- • Diplomatic simulations
- • Policy analysis training
- • UN/NGO internships
- • Regional specializations
MSc Political Science
Analytical programs examining political systems and behavior.
- • Comparative methods focus
- • Data analytics training
- • Policy workshop series
- • Parliamentary placements
MA Social Anthropology
Ethnographic study of contemporary cultures and societies.
- • Fieldwork methodology
- • Ethnographic film training
- • Museum collaborations
- • Research ethics focus
Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements
- • Bachelor's degree (2:1 or above)
- • Social sciences or related field
- • Research proposal (some programs)
- • Writing sample required
Preferred Experience
- • Research experience
- • NGO/policy work
- • Language skills (IR programs)
- • Volunteer experience
Career Prospects
Social sciences graduates pursue diverse careers in government, international organizations, research institutes, NGOs, and private sector consulting.
Public Sector
- • Policy Analyst
- • Civil Service Fast Stream
- • Social Researcher
- • Intelligence Analyst
- • Local Government Officer
International Organizations
- • UN Program Officer
- • Development Consultant
- • Diplomatic Service
- • Human Rights Officer
- • NGO Director
Research & Academia
- • Research Fellow
- • Think Tank Analyst
- • Market Research Director
- • University Lecturer
- • Data Analyst
Quick Facts
Leading Universities
Skills Developed
- Research Methodology
- Policy Analysis
- Data Analysis (SPSS/R)
- Critical Thinking
- Ethnographic Methods
- Report Writing
Industry Demand
Social research jobs UK
Sector growth rate
Graduate employment rate
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