MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
MA Power, Participation and Social Change
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Power, Participation, and Social Change at the University of Sussex is designed for students interested in exploring the relationship between power dynamics, social movements, and participation in the political process. This program aims to equip students with the theoretical frameworks and practical skills necessary to engage in social change processes, whether through activism, policy development, or grassroots movements. It combines interdisciplinary study with a focus on the real-world implications of power and participation, providing students with both critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities essential for addressing contemporary global issues.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA is structured to offer a blend of theoretical insights and practical application. Core modules typically cover topics such as social justice, political engagement, and the role of participation in sustainable social change. Students will explore issues related to power structures, governance, and inequality, learning to critically assess how different actors, including states, NGOs, and grassroots movements, shape societal transformation. The curriculum emphasizes a hands-on approach with opportunities for fieldwork and practical engagements, allowing students to apply what they've learned in real-world settings.
Research Focus: The research focus of the program is deeply intertwined with contemporary issues of social change, focusing on how power, participation, and resistance movements shape societies globally. Faculty members at Sussex are known for their pioneering research in the fields of international development, human rights, and political theory, providing students with access to cutting-edge academic work and thought leadership. Research within this program encourages students to critically evaluate the role of global institutions, social movements, and public policies in addressing inequalities and driving progressive change.
Industry Engagement: The MA Power, Participation, and Social Change program offers students strong industry engagement opportunities. Through partnerships with NGOs, international organizations, government agencies, and social movements, the university ensures that students are exposed to the practical challenges and opportunities that professionals in this field encounter. Students can engage in internships, networking opportunities, and collaborations with industry professionals, which helps to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application. These opportunities are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in both the public and non-profit sectors.
Global Perspective: The University of Sussex has a strong international reputation and emphasizes a global perspective in all its programs. The MA Power, Participation, and Social Change is no exception, offering students insights into social change processes from around the world. Students will study how social movements in different cultural and political contexts respond to issues like inequality, climate change, and human rights. The program's global outlook equips students with the skills to understand and address social challenges on an international scale, preparing them for careers in international organizations, policy-making bodies, and global non-profits.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 21500
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 65% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students can benefit from the Sussex Graduate Scholarship, which provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible students with strong academic records.This scholarship is available for a variety of postgraduate programs and is aimed at supporting students who wish to advance their studies in the UK.
Chevening Scholarships: The University of Sussex is a partner in the Chevening Scholarship program, which is the UK government’s global scholarship program.Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The University of Sussex is involved in several Erasmus Mundus programs, offering scholarships for international students from EU and non-EU countries.These scholarships support students pursuing joint Master’s degrees across European universities.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The MA Power, Participation, and Social Change program at the University of Sussex provides students with the skills and knowledge required for a wide array of careers in the public, non-profit, and private sectors. Given the program's focus on the dynamics of power, social justice, and political participation, graduates are well-positioned for roles that involve addressing global inequalities, empowering marginalized communities, and influencing policy development.
Policy Analyst and Advisor: Graduates can work as policy analysts or advisors within government agencies, think tanks, or international organizations. They can influence the development of policies related to social justice, human rights, and international development. Their role typically involves conducting research, analyzing data, and providing strategic recommendations to policymakers.
Social Development Specialist: Many graduates of this program move into roles within international development agencies, NGOs, or global organizations that focus on poverty alleviation, human rights, and community empowerment. These specialists work on development projects, assess community needs, and design strategies to improve the lives of marginalized groups.
Advocacy and Campaign Manager: Graduates with a passion for activism and social change can work in advocacy roles with NGOs, political movements, or human rights organizations. These professionals lead campaigns to raise awareness about key issues such as climate change, gender equality, or racial justice, and work to influence public opinion and policy decisions.
Human Rights Officer: With the increasing global focus on human rights issues, graduates can find career opportunities in international organizations such as the United Nations, or in non-governmental organizations that fight for the protection of human rights worldwide. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring human rights abuses, conducting research, and creating strategies to address violations.
Community Organizer and Mobilizer: Many graduates pursue careers in grassroots organizations where they can work directly with communities to mobilize them for collective action. This includes leading efforts to tackle local inequalities, advocating for political change, or supporting communities affected by social issues like housing, health, and education.
International Development Consultant: Graduates can also pursue consulting roles with international development agencies, governments, or non-profit organizations. As consultants, they can offer their expertise in designing, evaluating, and implementing projects that address issues like poverty reduction, sustainable development, and humanitarian relief.
Researcher and Academic: For those interested in further academic pursuits, the MA Power, Participation, and Social Change provides an excellent foundation for a career in research or teaching. Graduates can contribute to important academic work in the fields of political science, social justice, and international development, or pursue PhD studies to engage in advanced research and higher education teaching roles.
NGO Manager/Director: Graduates can assume leadership roles within non-governmental organizations, managing programs and projects that focus on social change, community empowerment, and global advocacy. They may oversee operations, manage teams, and work to secure funding and support for their initiatives.
Social Entrepreneur: The knowledge and skills gained during the program can also inspire graduates to launch their own social enterprises, organizations, or startups that focus on tackling social issues. Social entrepreneurs create innovative solutions that address pressing societal challenges, such as environmental sustainability, social inequality, or access to education.
Media and Communications Specialist: Graduates interested in using media to influence public opinion can work in communications or media roles with advocacy organizations, government agencies, or media outlets. Their work may involve crafting compelling narratives, writing reports, or managing social media campaigns to raise awareness on social change issues.
