University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This MA combines core theoretical and methodological training with options that allow you to specialise in areas such as welfare, health, migration, gender, development and labour market policy. Teaching typically includes a mix of lectures, seminars, policy labs and independent research leading to a dissertation.

• Core modules — courses commonly cover comparative and global social policy theory, social policy analysis, and research methods (both qualitative and quantitative approaches), equipping you to design and evaluate policy-relevant research.
• Optional modules — options often allow deeper study in themes such as health and social care policy, migration and citizenship, gender and social policy, poverty and inequality, social protection in low- and middle-income countries, and governance and public administration.
• Research dissertation — an independent research project supervised by academic staff, allowing you to pursue a policy question in depth and demonstrate advanced research skills and policy-relevant analysis.
• Learning formats — students engage with case studies, policy simulation exercises, critical reviews of international policy interventions, and workshops that develop practical skills in evidence synthesis, policy brief writing and stakeholder engagement.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good undergraduate degree in a relevant social science or related discipline. Equivalent professional experience may be considered for those without a traditional academic background. Typical requirements include:

• A UK upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent international qualification; occasional offers may be made to candidates with a lower second-class honours (2:2) plus substantial relevant work experience.
• Evidence of numeracy and research potential is advantageous, especially for applicants intending to take quantitative modules.
• Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through a recognised English language qualification at the level required by the university (for example an overall IELTS score with minimum sub-scores), or equivalent evidence of English-medium study.
• Applicants may be asked to submit a personal statement outlining their interests and any relevant work or voluntary experience, and academic references.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles where analysis of social and public policy is valued. Common career paths include:

• Policy analyst, researcher or adviser in national and local government departments
• Programme officer or policy specialist in international organisations and multilateral agencies
• Roles in non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups focusing on social protection, health, migration, gender or development
• Research positions in think tanks and academic or applied research centres
• Consultancy in public service reform, evaluation and impact assessment
• Progression to doctoral study for those pursuing academic or high-level research careers

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham hosts internationally recognised social policy research groups and offers interdisciplinary links across sociology, politics, health and development studies. Students benefit from supervisors active in policy-relevant research, access to the Institute for Policy Research and regular events that connect students with external policy-makers and practitioners.

Teaching is informed by current debates in global and comparative policy, and the university provides a supportive environment for international students, research training, and skills development that are directly relevant to policy work. Practical training in research methods and opportunities for engagement with external partners help prepare graduates for careers across the public, third and private sectors.