International Social and Public Policy (Development) MSc
London School of Economics and Political Science, United Kingdom
MSc International Social and Public Policy (Development)
London School of Economics and Political Science
Social Policy & Development
Program Overview: MSc International Social and Public Policy (Development)
The MSc International Social and Public Policy (Development) at LSE is a one-year, full-time master's program that equips you with the analytical tools to understand and critically evaluate social development challenges in low and middle-income countries. You will examine how societies respond to global challenges resulting from social, demographic, and economic change, as well as issues around poverty, migration, and globalisation.
This specialist Development stream allows you to explore international policy and development themes such as race, regulation, civil society, and conflict, comparing how different countries address these challenges. The program approaches the policy process from an international, interdisciplinary, and applied perspective, examining the roles of stakeholders including governments, NGOs, families, and markets.
Delivered by LSE's Department of Social Policy, which is rated number one in the UK for social policy according to the Good University Guide 2026 and achieved the highest UK ranking for research in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (2021), you will study in a vibrant, research-led environment. Upon graduation, you will have the skills to contribute to the design and implementation of policies that promote sustainable development worldwide.
Key Program Highlights
- Housed in LSE's Department of Social Policy, ranked number one in the UK for social policy (Good University Guide 2026)
- Specialist Development stream with focus on social challenges in low and middle-income countries
- International, interdisciplinary, and applied approach to the policy process with optional courses to tailor your studies
- Complete a dissertation on a social development topic under expert academic supervision
Curriculum & Modules
The MSc International Social and Public Policy (Development) requires you to take three compulsory courses, select optional courses to the value of 1.5 units, and complete a dissertation on a social development topic. The curriculum is research-led, combining theoretical foundations with practical policy analysis skills applicable to global development contexts.
International Social and Public Policy: Core Concepts
1.0 UnitThis foundational course covers the core issues, concepts, actors, and debates shaping our understanding of social and public policy. You will explore diverse policy approaches to social issues across low, middle, and high-income countries.
Social Policy and Development
0.5 UnitThis course examines social policy challenges and approaches in developing countries, covering themes such as poverty reduction, inequality, and the role of international institutions in promoting sustainable development.
International Social and Public Policy: Research Applications
0.5 UnitDevelop your understanding of the role of research in the policy process, analyse different research methods used in policymaking, and examine how evidence informs policy development at national and international levels.
Dissertation in Social Development
1.0 UnitYou will complete an independently researched dissertation on a social development topic agreed with your supervisor, demonstrating your ability to apply analytical frameworks to real-world development challenges.
Optional Course Selection (Development Stream)
0.5 UnitChoose from a range of optional courses covering topics such as migration, non-governmental organisations, social movements and activism, and other development-related themes to tailor your studies to your career goals.
Optional Course Selection (Elective)
0.5 UnitSelect additional elective courses from across LSE's wide range of offerings to further specialise in areas aligned with your academic interests and professional aspirations.
Sample Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MSc International Social and Public Policy (Development) is competitive. LSE considers each application holistically, taking into account academic achievement, personal statement, references, and relevant experience. All applications and inquiries should be submitted through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum Degree ClassificationUpper second class honours (2:1) degree or equivalent from a recognised institution
- Subject BackgroundDegree in a relevant social science discipline
- International EquivalenceInternational qualifications are assessed against UK standards; contact Uni4Edu for country-specific requirements
- Work ExperienceNot required, but relevant professional experience in development or policy fields is valued
- GRE/GMATNot required for this program
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall 7.0 with minimum 6.5 in each component (Higher level requirement)
- TOEFL iBTOverall 100 with minimum scores in Reading 25, Listening 22, Writing 24, Speaking 22
- PTE AcademicOverall 69 with minimum 62 in each component
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
LSE provides generous financial support to graduate students each year. The program is eligible for several needs-based and merit-based awards. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on funding applications and to explore all available options for your circumstances.
Graduate Support Scheme (GSS)
GBP 5,000 to GBP 15,000A needs-based award open to all taught master's students. The scheme is designed to supplement other funding you have secured through savings, loans, or external scholarships. LSE allocates approximately GBP 3 million annually to this scheme.
LSE Master's Awards
Varies by awardDonor-funded scholarships available to offer holders whose financial need exceeds what the Graduate Support Scheme can provide. Students are automatically considered when they complete the financial support application.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme (JJWBGSP)
Covers tuition and living expensesThis program is eligible for JJWBGSP funding, which supports students from developing countries pursuing development-related graduate studies. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details and application guidance.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MSc International Social and Public Policy (Development) progress to high-impact and influential roles across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. LSE alumni work in prominent government positions, national and international NGOs, the private sector, and universities across the world, contributing to policies that promote sustainable development.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The London School of Economics and Political Science is one of the foremost social science universities in the world, consistently achieving top positions in global and national rankings. LSE's Department of Social Policy holds the number one position in the UK for social policy and is recognised for outstanding research quality.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Policy and Administration | QS World Rankings by Subject | #7 |
| Social Sciences and Management | QS World Rankings by Subject | #6 |
| Development Studies | QS World Rankings by Subject | #3 |
| Social Policy (Research Excellence) | Research Excellence Framework (REF) | #1 in UK (2021) |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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