International Social and Public Policy (Education) MSc
London School of Economics and Political Science, United Kingdom
MSc International Social and Public Policy (Education)
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Social Policy & Education
Program Overview: MSc International Social and Public Policy (Education)
The MSc International Social and Public Policy (Education) at LSE allows you to explore the impact of education policy, reform, and financing on social justice and development across different countries. This specialist stream is part of a broad-ranging programme that examines how societies respond to global challenges resulting from social, demographic, and economic change.
You will investigate topics such as the aims of education systems, the impact of social characteristics including gender, race, and ethnicity on educational outcomes, the politics and power of educational policymaking, and market-oriented reforms. The programme encourages a multidisciplinary perspective, drawing on political science, sociology, economics, and education studies.
Delivered by LSE's Department of Social Policy, which is rated number one in the UK for social policy in the Good University Guide 2026 and received the highest UK ranking for research in the Research Excellence Framework 2021, you will benefit from a research-led teaching curriculum with genuine international scope.
Key Program Highlights
- Specialist education policy stream within LSE's flagship International Social and Public Policy programme
- Department ranked number one in the UK for social policy (Good University Guide 2026)
- Interdisciplinary faculty drawing on anthropology, demography, economics, political science, and sociology
- Wide range of optional courses allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals
Curriculum and Modules
The programme consists of three compulsory courses, optional courses to the value of one and a half units, and a dissertation. You will build a strong foundation in international social and public policy before specialising in education policy topics. The curriculum is research-led, equipping you with analytical tools to critically assess education policies across diverse national contexts.
International Social and Public Policy
1.0 UnitThis compulsory core course engages with social and public policy challenges facing states and citizens worldwide, covering diverse policy approaches, ideological underpinnings, and the roles of the state, market, civil society, and international organisations.
Education Policy and Social Inequality
0.5 UnitA compulsory specialist course examining the aims of education systems, the impact of social characteristics on educational outcomes, and the politics of educational policymaking in different countries.
Comparative Education Policy
0.5 UnitThis course analyses how different countries approach educational challenges, comparing market-oriented reforms, financing models, and governance structures across high, middle, and low-income nations.
Dissertation
1.0 UnitYou will complete an independently researched dissertation on an education policy topic agreed with your supervisor, applying the analytical and research skills developed throughout the programme.
Optional Courses (Electives)
1.5 UnitsChoose from a wide range of optional courses across the Department of Social Policy and other LSE departments, enabling you to specialise in areas such as educational inequality, migration, race, or social development.
Research Methods in Social Policy
0.5 UnitAn optional course developing your understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods applied to social and education policy analysis, preparing you for evidence-based policymaking or further academic research.
Sample Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MSc International Social and Public Policy (Education) is competitive. LSE evaluates each application holistically, considering academic achievement, personal statement, references, and relevant experience. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and the submission process.
Academic Requirements
- Degree RequirementUpper second class honours (2:1) degree or equivalent from a recognised university
- Subject BackgroundDegree in a relevant social science discipline is preferred
- GRE/GMATNot required for this programme
- Personal StatementA statement outlining your academic interests, motivations, and career goals
- ReferencesTwo academic or professional references supporting your application
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall score of 7.0 with no sub-score below 6.5
- TOEFL iBTOverall score of 100 with minimum 23 in each component
- PTE AcademicOverall score of 69 with at least 62 in each component
Required Documents
Key Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
LSE offers a range of needs-based and merit-based scholarships to support both home and overseas students. This programme is eligible for several funding opportunities, and Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for the awards most suited to your profile.
LSE Graduate Support Scheme
Varies (needs-based partial fee waiver)A needs-based award offering partial tuition fee reductions for students who demonstrate financial need. You must hold an offer of a place and submit a Graduate Financial Support application before the funding deadline.
LSE Master's Awards and Anniversary Scholarships
Varies by awardNeeds-based awards available to home and overseas students on eligible master's programmes. Selection is based on receipt of a complete application, including all supporting documents, before the funding deadline.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme
Full tuition and living costs coverageAvailable to nationals of World Bank member developing countries. Eligible LSE offer holders are contacted directly with application details. Contact Uni4Edu for more information on eligibility and the application process.
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 this programme progress to influential roles in government, international organisations, NGOs, the private sector, and academia. LSE's central London location and extensive alumni network provide exceptional networking and career development opportunities, with dedicated support from CV workshops to careers fairs.
Typical Career Roles
Where Graduates Work
Rankings and Recognition
The London School of Economics and Political Science is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, with particular strength in the social sciences. LSE's Department of Social Policy holds the number one position in the UK and is recognised internationally for its research excellence.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Policy and Administration | QS World Rankings by Subject | #7 |
| Social Sciences and Management | QS World Rankings by Subject | #6 |
| Sociology | QS World Rankings by Subject | #5 |
| Social Policy (UK Research) | Research Excellence Framework | #1 |
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.
Similar Programmes
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
Inequalities and Social Science MSc
University of Leeds, , United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2027
Gross Tuition
26500 £
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
International Development MSc
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2027
Gross Tuition
32000 £
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
International Relations MSc
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2027
Gross Tuition
32000 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Social Policy and Sociology MA
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2027
Gross Tuition
29600 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Social Policy with Quantitative Methods MA
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2027
Gross Tuition
29600 £
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
