MA Digital Media and Creative Industries
The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries at Loughborough University aims t...
MSc Social Science Research
Loughborough
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
Loughborough University, located in Leicestershire, United Kingdom, is known for its outstanding academic reputation and emphasis on research excellence. The MSc Social Science Research program is designed for students who are keen to develop in-depth research skills across various social science disciplines. This advanced program offers students the opportunity to explore a wide range of methodologies, theories, and practices that are fundamental to conducting high-level research in social sciences. Whether students aim to pursue academic careers or enter the professional world, the program provides a solid foundation for research in areas such as sociology, psychology, education, and politics.
Curriculum: The MSc Social Science Research curriculum is comprehensive and interdisciplinary, covering essential topics in research design, data collection, and analysis. Students are introduced to both qualitative and quantitative research methods, equipping them with the tools needed to tackle real-world social problems. Core modules typically include Research Methods in Social Science, Advanced Statistical Analysis, Qualitative Research Techniques, and Ethics in Social Research. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the ability to apply research findings to influence social policy and practice. Students have the opportunity to tailor their learning with optional modules, exploring specialized areas such as public health, education policy, or social justice, making the program highly adaptable to students' individual career goals.
Research Focus: Loughborough University’s research focus within the Social Science Research program is broad and interdisciplinary, with particular strengths in areas such as social policy, education, health, and community development. The university has established a reputation for research excellence, consistently producing impactful work that informs policy, practice, and social change. The program emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, encouraging students to engage in innovative research that addresses contemporary social issues. With access to world-class faculty and research centers, students have the opportunity to collaborate on cutting-edge projects that explore pressing societal challenges, from inequality and migration to mental health and education systems.
Industry Engagement: Loughborough University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement throughout the MSc Social Science Research program. The university collaborates with government bodies, NGOs, community organizations, and private sector partners, providing students with the opportunity to work on live projects, internships, and fieldwork placements. These real-world experiences allow students to apply their research skills in practical settings, developing a deeper understanding of how research impacts social policy, business practices, and public services. The program’s close links with industry ensure that students graduate with not only academic knowledge but also practical experience, enhancing their employability in a variety of social research and policy roles.
Global Perspective: The MSc Social Science Research program at Loughborough University offers a global perspective, with students encouraged to consider social issues from an international viewpoint. This is particularly valuable in an increasingly interconnected world where social problems often transcend national boundaries. The program’s international focus is reflected in its diverse student body and faculty, as well as the global scope of its research initiatives. Loughborough’s emphasis on global networking and exchange programs further enhances students’ ability to engage with social issues from a cross-cultural perspective. Graduates are thus well-equipped to contribute to global conversations on social justice, human rights, and sustainable development.
Location
Loughborough
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 24500
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 75% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their education and make studying in the UK more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, financial need, and the potential for students to contribute to the university community.
International Excellence Awards: These are merit-based scholarships offered to international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These awards typically cover part of the tuition fees and are designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe.
Global Scholarships: Loughborough offers various global scholarships based on geographical location, supporting students from specific regions or countries with reduced tuition fees.
Postgraduate Taught Scholarships: These are available for international students applying for postgraduate taught programs at Loughborough University. Scholarships typically range from £2,000 to £4,000, depending on the student’s academic qualifications and the program they are enrolled in.
Loughborough University International Research Scholarships: For international students who wish to pursue a research-based postgraduate program, Loughborough offers research scholarships that cover full tuition fees, along with an annual stipend to assist with living costs.
Loughborough University Elite Sports Scholarships: These are available for students who are competing at an elite level in their sport. The scholarship includes financial support, as well as access to the university's world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Loughborough University offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate high academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country upon graduation.
The MSc Social Science Research program prepares graduates for a wide range of career paths, including academic, research-focused, and policy-oriented roles.
Social Researcher/Research Analyst: As trained researchers, graduates can pursue roles as social researchers or research analysts in both public and private sector organizations. In these positions, they conduct studies, analyze data, and produce reports that inform social policies, business strategies, and community development initiatives. Social researchers work in a variety of settings, such as research institutes, think tanks, government departments, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Policy Advisor/Policy Analyst: The MSc Social Science Research program provides students with the tools to engage in evidence-based policy analysis. Graduates often pursue careers as policy advisors or analysts in government agencies, international organizations, and advocacy groups. In these roles, they evaluate social programs, analyze data trends, and provide recommendations to shape effective policies on issues such as education, healthcare, and social justice.
Public Health Researcher: Graduates with an interest in health can pursue roles as public health researchers, working with healthcare organizations, government bodies, or NGOs. Public health researchers design and conduct studies related to health disparities, behavior change, and healthcare access. They collect and analyze data to inform public health interventions, improve healthcare delivery, and support initiatives that address societal health challenges.
Community Development Officer: Community development officers work with local authorities and community-based organizations to assess and address the needs of specific communities. By utilizing research findings, they implement programs that improve living conditions, education, employment opportunities, and social inclusion. MSc Social Science Research graduates can contribute to meaningful community engagement through data-driven strategies and policies.
Social Policy Researcher: Graduates can specialize in social policy research, where they conduct in-depth research into areas such as welfare, housing, poverty, and social inequality. Social policy researchers often work for government think tanks, research institutes, or consultancy firms. They provide evidence-based insights that inform policy decisions aimed at tackling social problems and improving quality of life.
Education Consultant/Researcher: Graduates interested in the education sector can pursue careers as education consultants or researchers. In these roles, they analyze educational systems, assess curriculum effectiveness, and conduct research on teaching methods. Education researchers play a vital role in shaping policies that improve educational outcomes, particularly for marginalized or underserved populations.
International Development Specialist: For those passionate about global issues, international development offers a rewarding career path. Graduates can work as international development specialists in organizations that focus on poverty reduction, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development. These roles often involve researching global social issues, designing development programs, and evaluating the effectiveness of international aid projects.
Academic and University Researcher: Many MSc Social Science Research graduates choose to pursue academic careers, either as university researchers or lecturers. By continuing their research, they contribute to expanding knowledge in social sciences and teaching the next generation of researchers. Academic researchers also frequently collaborate with government agencies, think tanks, and NGOs to influence policy decisions through their work.
