University of Hull

What you'll study

This MA combines conceptual study of social justice with practical methods for community engagement and participatory practice. Core themes include contemporary theories of justice, power and inequality; community development and organising; participatory and action research methods; policy analysis; and ethics in community-based work. Teaching typically blends seminars, workshops, case studies and applied project work.

Typical modules you may encounter include:

• Foundations of Social Justice: concepts, histories and debates
• Community Engagement and Practice: models, strategies and evaluation
• Participatory Research Methods: co-production, qualitative methods and action research
• Policy, Power and Advocacy: analysing and influencing policy processes
• Ethics, Rights and Inclusion: working with marginalised communities
• Independent Research Project or Dissertation: an extended piece of supervised research, often developed from a placement or community partnership

The programme often offers opportunities for an extended placement, partnership work with local organisations or collaborative projects where you apply learning to real-world challenges. Assessment is commonly a mix of essays, project reports, presentations, reflective portfolios and the dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in a related discipline such as sociology, social policy, community development, education, health or a relevant professional qualification. Applicants with a lower-class degree plus relevant work or voluntary experience in community, voluntary or public sector roles are also frequently considered.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency where required by the University. You will normally be asked to provide a personal statement outlining your interest in social justice and any relevant experience, and referees who can comment on your academic or professional suitability for postgraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across the public, voluntary and private sectors. Typical roles include community development worker, policy officer, advocacy and campaigns coordinator, research assistant, programme manager in charities or NGOs, and roles in local government or public service commissioning. The programme also prepares students for further academic research, including MPhil/PhD study, and for practitioners seeking to strengthen their research and evaluative skills.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers a supportive postgraduate environment combined with strong links to local communities and organisations across the region, providing practical placement and partnership opportunities. Teaching is informed by staff research and practice in social policy, community engagement and participatory methods, and the programme emphasises applied learning that can be taken directly into professional contexts.

Hull is a compact city with active civic and voluntary sectors, making it accessible for students seeking local engagement experience. The University provides research support, careers guidance and skills development tailored for social justice and community-focused careers, helping students translate academic learning into practical impact.