MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
MA Social Development
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Social Development at the University of Sussex is designed for those who wish to explore global issues, such as poverty, inequality, and human rights, from a multidisciplinary perspective. This program equips students with the tools necessary to address contemporary social problems, focusing on theoretical and practical approaches to development. It combines the study of social policies with an in-depth understanding of global economic systems, making it ideal for students interested in working within international organizations, NGOs, and governmental agencies.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA Social Development blends theoretical foundations with practical applications. Core modules cover topics such as social policy, the politics of development, and the impact of globalization on social structures. Students have the flexibility to choose from a range of optional modules, including those focused on environmental sustainability, gender studies, and international development. The program also includes a dissertation, allowing students to focus on a particular area of social development in greater depth.
Research Focus: The research focus at Sussex University in social development is centered around global social inequalities, social justice, and sustainable development. The university has a strong emphasis on research that challenges the status quo, promoting social change through collaborative and transdisciplinary methods. Scholars at Sussex conduct research in a range of fields, from policy analysis to the study of the social determinants of health and education. The university also supports research that connects theory to practice, providing students with the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects that have real-world implications.
Industry Engagement: Sussex University maintains strong links with a variety of industries, NGOs, and international organizations. The MA Social Development program is supported by the university's partnership with organizations such as the United Nations, UNICEF, and various international development agencies. These collaborations offer students practical opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and research placements, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the global development sector.
Global Perspective: The MA Social Development program offers a truly global perspective on the issues facing societies today. The curriculum incorporates case studies from around the world, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of how social development strategies are applied in different cultural and political contexts. Moreover, the university's diverse international student body fosters a global exchange of ideas, enriching the learning experience and preparing students for careers in an interconnected world. With its focus on global social change, the University of Sussex offers students the opportunity to contribute to solving some of the most pressing social challenges worldwide.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6.5
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.
Graduating with an MA in Social Development from the University of Sussex opens up a wide array of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Students who complete this program are equipped with critical analytical skills, practical experience, and a deep understanding of global social issues, making them highly competitive in the job market. Career paths for graduates are diverse, and they often find roles in international organizations, NGOs, governmental agencies, and development-focused companies.
International Development Specialist: Working for international organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, or NGOs, specialists design and implement development programs aimed at addressing poverty, inequality, and social justice.
Policy Advisor/Analyst: Graduates can work as policy advisors, conducting research and advising governments, NGOs, or think tanks on social policy, development strategies, and human rights issues.
Project Manager for NGOs: Many MA Social Development graduates go on to manage development projects, ensuring the successful delivery of initiatives that aim to improve living conditions, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in underdeveloped areas.
Humanitarian Aid Worker: With a deep understanding of social development issues, graduates are well-prepared for roles in humanitarian aid, helping to provide emergency relief in areas affected by natural disasters, conflict, or other crises.
Social Policy Researcher: Graduates may pursue roles in research institutions or government bodies where they contribute to social policy development, focusing on issues such as education, healthcare, and poverty reduction.
Gender and Human Rights Advocate: Working with organizations that focus on human rights or gender equality, graduates can advocate for marginalized groups, focusing on policy reform, community engagement, and global advocacy.
Sustainable Development Consultant: Graduates with an interest in environmental and social sustainability can pursue consulting roles, advising governments, businesses, or international agencies on how to develop policies that balance economic growth with social equity and environmental sustainability.
Community Development Officer: Graduates often take up roles within local government or community-based organizations, leading initiatives that promote social inclusion, economic development, and improved access to services for disadvantaged communities.
