MPhil Social Policy, Sociology and Criminology

Program Overview

The MPhil in Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology at the University of Birmingham is designed to provide students with the skills necessary for high-level research in the fields of social policy, sociology, and criminology. This program allows students to undertake a major research project in an area of their choosing, typically culminating in a dissertation that addresses an issue or problem in social policy, criminology, or social theory. The program is structured to support independent, self-directed research, while also providing guidance from expert supervisors and faculty members. Throughout their studies, students benefit from access to a wide range of academic resources and research seminars, encouraging them to engage with contemporary debates and theories in their fields of interest. The MPhil program provides an excellent foundation for students who wish to continue to doctoral-level study (PhD) or seek to work in policy analysis, research institutes, or public sector roles.

Curriculum: The MPhil in Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology is primarily focused on independent research, but it also includes opportunities for students to take advanced-level modules in the areas of social policy, criminology, and sociology. The curriculum is tailored to the individual research interests of each student, with support from academic staff who specialize in a wide variety of subjects. Students are expected to develop a thorough understanding of research methods, both qualitative and quantitative, and to apply these methods in their own research projects. While the program is research-centered, students may also attend specialized seminars on topics such as social inequality, criminal justice, youth crime, global social policy, surveillance and control, and disability studies. Students may also participate in advanced training workshops focused on academic writing, data analysis, and research ethics. The curriculum is designed to provide students with the flexibility to pursue research that aligns with their career aspirations and academic interests.

Research Focus: The MPhil in Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology at the University of Birmingham has a strong emphasis on high-level research in the fields of social policy, criminology, and sociology. Research topics may range across criminological theory, social justice, policy evaluation, criminal behavior, gender and sexuality, race and ethnicity, family dynamics, education and society, and the sociology of deviance. The program supports a variety of research methodologies, from qualitative approaches such as ethnography and interviews, to quantitative methods including statistical analysis and data modeling. Students are encouraged to engage critically with contemporary social issues, producing research that can influence policy and societal understanding. Additionally, the university fosters a collaborative research environment, allowing students to engage with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and their peers in ongoing projects and discussions.

Industry Engagement: The MPhil in Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology is closely connected with a variety of external partners, including government agencies, NGOs, social research organizations, and policy think tanks. This network of industry partners ensures that students have access to real-world case studies, data, and opportunities for collaborative research projects. Students may also have opportunities to undertake placements, internships, or fieldwork, enabling them to apply their research in practical settings. Regular seminars, guest lectures, and workshops with industry professionals and policymakers are integral to the program, providing students with insights into how their academic research can impact policy and practice. These industry connections also offer valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to make connections that may be beneficial for their future careers in social policy, criminology, and sociology.

Global Perspective: The MPhil in Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology at the University of Birmingham integrates a global perspective into its research and curriculum. Students are encouraged to explore social issues from an international standpoint, particularly in areas such as global inequality, human rights, international crime, migration and asylum policies, and global criminal justice systems. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding social phenomena in a global context, encouraging students to examine how issues such as crime, policy, and social structures transcend national borders. Faculty members are involved in international research collaborations, and students are encouraged to consider how their research can contribute to the global discourse on social problems. This global perspective prepares students to work in a range of international settings, from global development organizations to research institutes, and equips them with the skills needed to address social issues on a global scale.