MSc Accounting and Finance
Cardiff University’s MSc in Accounting and Finance is designed to develop advance...
MSc Social Science Research Methods (Social Policy)
Cardiff
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Policy) at Cardiff University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with advanced research skills in the field of social policy while providing a thorough understanding of the social and political contexts in which policies are created and implemented. The program is ideal for individuals interested in pursuing careers in social policy analysis, research, and development. Students will gain expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methods and will be trained to critically assess social policies related to issues like healthcare, education, poverty, and social justice. The program blends academic theory with practical research skills, preparing graduates for influential roles in public sector organizations, think tanks, and NGOs.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Policy) is designed to provide a strong foundation in both research methodology and the practical application of social policy. Core modules focus on research design, data analysis, and ethical considerations, with an emphasis on quantitative and qualitative research methods. Students will engage with topics such as the analysis of social inequalities, social welfare systems, and public policy evaluations. Optional modules allow students to specialize in areas such as health policy, housing policy, or crime and justice. The program culminates in a dissertation, providing students the opportunity to conduct original research on a topic of their choosing within the social policy field, enabling them to contribute to contemporary debates and policy development.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Policy) is centered on understanding the social, economic, and political factors that shape social policy, as well as examining the impact of policies on various societal groups. Students are encouraged to explore a wide range of topics, including inequality, poverty, education, healthcare, welfare systems, and social justice. The program also emphasizes critical evaluation of policy effectiveness and the social outcomes of policy interventions. Students will develop the skills needed to undertake both qualitative and quantitative research, preparing them to contribute to evidence-based policy-making and advocacy.
Industry Engagement: Cardiff University offers strong industry engagement opportunities through partnerships with public sector organizations, think tanks, advocacy groups, and NGOs that focus on social policy and social justice. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, guest lectures, and practical workshops, providing them with exposure to real-world social policy issues. These opportunities allow students to apply their research skills in professional settings, engage with policy professionals, and understand the practicalities of policy analysis and implementation. Cardiff’s links with social policy institutions also provide students access to a network of professionals that can be beneficial for their future careers.
Global Perspective: The MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Policy) adopts a global perspective by examining how social policy issues affect different societies worldwide. The program explores comparative social policy, looking at how countries approach social issues such as healthcare, welfare, and education, and the social outcomes of these policies. Students are encouraged to critically assess how global economic and political trends influence national social policies and how international organizations and movements impact social policy agendas. The program’s international focus allows students to engage with global debates and develop insights that are relevant across diverse cultural and political contexts.
Location
Cardiff
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 23200
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence.
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.
Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.
Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.
British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.
Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.
Graduates of the MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Policy) from Cardiff University have a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors, as well as in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international institutions. The program equips students with a robust understanding of social policy analysis and research methods, making them valuable assets to employers across various industries.
Social Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, providing expert analysis and recommendations on social policies related to healthcare, education, poverty alleviation, housing, and employment. They can work in governmental agencies, think tanks, or NGOs, using their research skills to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and suggest improvements.
Public Sector Researcher: Many graduates pursue careers in public sector organizations, such as local government or national agencies, where they conduct research to inform policy decisions. They may work in areas such as welfare reform, education policy, or criminal justice, helping to develop and evaluate programs that address social issues.
Social Research Consultant: Graduates can work as consultants for public or private sector organizations, conducting research on social issues, evaluating programs, and providing recommendations for policy improvement. They may specialize in areas such as poverty, social inequality, or public health, using both qualitative and quantitative research methods to collect and analyze data.
Advocacy and Campaign Specialist: With expertise in social policy, graduates can pursue roles in advocacy organizations, working to influence public policy and raise awareness of social issues. They may be involved in campaigns related to social justice, gender equality, human rights, or environmental policy, using research to support evidence-based arguments and recommendations.
Social Welfare Program Manager: Graduates may take on roles managing social welfare programs, working for governmental or non-profit organizations that provide services related to poverty alleviation, housing, or healthcare. They can be involved in designing, implementing, and evaluating programs that address the needs of vulnerable populations.
International Development Specialist: The global perspective of the MSc program prepares graduates for careers in international development. They may work for international NGOs, the United Nations, or other global organizations, developing policies and programs to address social issues in developing countries, such as healthcare access, education, and gender equality.
Research Fellow or Academic: For those interested in pursuing a career in academia, the MSc provides a pathway to doctoral studies and an academic career in social policy research. Graduates may become researchers or lecturers in universities or research institutes, contributing to the development of new theories and approaches in social policy.
Social Justice Advocate: Graduates can work in organizations dedicated to promoting social justice, using their research skills to advocate for marginalized or disadvantaged groups. They may focus on issues like racial inequality, gender rights, disability rights, or refugee support, working in advocacy, policy development, or public relations roles.
Healthcare Policy Analyst: With their understanding of social policy and research methods, graduates can work in healthcare organizations or government agencies, analyzing and developing policies related to healthcare access, public health programs, or medical ethics. They may work on projects that improve the delivery of healthcare services and address social determinants of health.
Crime and Justice Specialist: Graduates interested in criminology or justice can work in roles related to criminal justice policy, rehabilitation programs, or law enforcement. They may be involved in developing policies for reducing crime, improving rehabilitation services, or enhancing the justice system's effectiveness in addressing social harm.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Consultant: Graduates can also work in CSR roles for businesses, advising companies on how to develop socially responsible policies and practices. They may focus on issues like corporate ethics, sustainability, and community engagement, helping businesses create policies that positively impact society.
