MSc Civil Engineering and Management
The MSc Civil Engineering and Management program at the University of Nottingham provid...
MA Social Science Research (Socio Legal Studies)
University Park Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The University of Nottingham, United Kingdom, is a leading institution renowned for its research excellence, academic rigor, and comprehensive approach to higher education. The MA Social Science Research (Socio-Legal Studies) program is specifically designed for students interested in exploring the intersection between law and society. This interdisciplinary program provides in-depth training in research methodologies and offers a critical understanding of how legal frameworks influence and are influenced by social structures, issues, and behaviors. It is ideal for those pursuing careers in legal practice, social policy, research, or academia, and for those wishing to delve into the complexities of socio-legal challenges in contemporary society.
Curriculum: The MA Social Science Research (Socio-Legal Studies) program at the University of Nottingham offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends core socio-legal theory with advanced research methodologies. Students examine a wide range of topics, including human rights, criminal justice, legal theory, access to justice, and the role of law in shaping social inequalities. The program covers both qualitative and quantitative research methods, enabling students to develop the skills needed to undertake independent, empirical research in socio-legal contexts. Along with core modules, students also undertake a dissertation project, which allows them to explore an area of socio-legal research in-depth, under the guidance of experienced faculty members.
Research Focus: The MA Social Science Research (Socio-Legal Studies) program at the University of Nottingham benefits from the university's established reputation for socio-legal research. Faculty members are internationally recognized for their work in areas such as legal reform, human rights, international law, legal pluralism, and the relationship between law and social justice. The university's interdisciplinary approach encourages students to think critically about the role of law in addressing social problems and to engage with both theoretical and practical perspectives. Research at the University of Nottingham often involves collaboration with government agencies, international organizations, and civil society groups, providing students with access to cutting-edge socio-legal scholarship and real-world applications.
Industry Engagement: The MA Social Science Research (Socio-Legal Studies) program offers substantial industry engagement through partnerships with legal practitioners, policymakers, and advocacy organizations. The university collaborates with law firms, governmental bodies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to provide students with opportunities for internships, placements, and collaborative research projects. Guest lectures, seminars, and workshops with leading socio-legal scholars and industry professionals further enrich the student learning experience, offering insights into the practical application of socio-legal research in real-world settings. These industry connections enhance students' career prospects and equip them with the practical skills necessary to work in legal research, policy analysis, and related fields.
Global Perspective: The MA Social Science Research (Socio-Legal Studies) program takes a global approach, recognizing that socio-legal issues are often shaped by broader international contexts. The curriculum includes international case studies, comparative legal systems, and global socio-legal challenges, such as human rights, migration, and international justice. The University of Nottingham's diverse academic community and global research networks allow students to engage with socio-legal issues from different cultural, political, and legal perspectives. This international outlook prepares graduates to work in global legal institutions, NGOs, international courts, and multinational organizations, addressing socio-legal problems and contributing to global justice and human rights initiatives.
Location
University Park Campus
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 22600
Postgraduate Entry Requirements: For admission into postgraduate programs at the University of Nottingham, international students are generally required to meet the following criteria:
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Academic Qualifications: Students should have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent with a minimum of 60% or above in their country's grading system. The specific entry requirements may vary depending on the chosen program of study. Some programs may have additional subject-specific requirements or prerequisite knowledge.
- English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90, with at least 17 in Listening, 17 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 18 in Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 72 with no individual score below 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Scholarships for International Students at the University of Nottingham:
International Excellence Scholarship: The University of Nottingham offers the International Excellence Scholarship to high-achieving international students. This scholarship is merit-based and provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £4,000 for postgraduate students.
Developing Solutions Scholarships: The Developing Solutions Scholarships are targeted at students from developing countries. These scholarships cover full tuition fees and provide additional support for living expenses. The aim of these scholarships is to empower students from disadvantaged backgrounds and enable them to make a positive impact in their home countries.
Sports Scholarships: The university recognizes the importance of sports and offers Sports Scholarships to exceptional athletes. These scholarships provide financial support to talented sportsmen and sportswomen, helping them balance their sporting commitments with their academic studies.
Nottingham Global Scholarships: The Nottingham Global Scholarships are awarded to outstanding international students across various academic disciplines. These scholarships provide financial assistance in the form of a tuition fee reduction.
Research Scholarships: The University of Nottingham offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students pursuing research degrees (Ph.D. or MRes). These scholarships provide funding to cover tuition fees and living expenses, allowing students to focus on their research projects.
Country-Specific Scholarships: The university also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, leadership potential, or specific criteria defined by the sponsoring organizations or governments.
Alumni Scholarships: The University of Nottingham values its alumni and offers scholarships exclusively for students who have completed a previous degree at the university. These scholarships provide financial support for further studies at the university.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary from year to year.
Graduates of the MA Social Science Research (Socio Legal Studies) program from the University of Nottingham are well-prepared to embark on diverse and impactful career paths.
Legal Researcher: Graduates can work as legal researchers, investigating the social implications of legal decisions and contributing to legal scholarship.
Policy Analyst: Equipped with strong research skills, graduates can work as policy analysts, influencing legal and social policy decisions.
Human Rights Advocate: Graduates can advocate for human rights and social justice within legal and non-legal organizations.
Academic and Educator: Graduates can pursue academic careers, teaching socio legal studies in universities and contributing to legal research.
Social Justice Consultant: Graduates can consult with organizations and agencies focused on promoting social justice and equality.
Legal Consultant: Graduates can offer expert insights to legal teams, interpreting the societal implications of legal cases.
Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Roles: Graduates can work in NGOs that address legal and social issues, promoting positive change.
