Social Policy
Bangor , United Kingdom
Master of Arts in Social Policy
Prifysgol Bangor University
Social Policy
MA Social Policy at Bangor University — Programme Overview
The MA in Social Policy at Bangor University explores the key issues, concepts, and debates of our time, including poverty and inequality, welfare and social insecurity, economic crises and democracy, the role of the state, automation, work and leisure, and migration, global governance, and institutions. Policies and practices within and across societies are compared, giving you a truly international perspective on social challenges.
You will investigate social theories, issues, and research methods relevant to social policy and sociology. Ethical dimensions of social policies are highlighted throughout the programme, and specialist research training is provided to equip you with robust analytical skills.
The programme culminates in a dissertation of approximately 20,000 words, where you will concentrate on a sustained research project following your personal interest under expert supervision. The School of Social Sciences provides a stimulating and supportive environment with small groups and close working relationships between students and supervisors.
Key Programme Highlights
- ESRC 1+3 Research Training Recognition, ensuring high-quality research methodology training
- Comparative and international focus examining welfare systems across multiple countries and contexts
- Flexible study options available as full-time (12 months) or part-time (24 months)
- Located in North Wales between the mountains of Snowdonia and the Menai Strait, offering an inspiring study environment
Curriculum and Modules — MA Social Policy
The MA Social Policy curriculum is designed to deepen your understanding of contemporary social policy issues while developing advanced research skills. Core modules cover theoretical analysis, empirical enquiry, and comparative perspectives, with the programme structured to build progressively toward your independent dissertation research.
Key Issues in Social Policy
30 CreditsExtends and deepens knowledge of key issues in contemporary social policy, exploring links between theoretical analysis in welfare and empirical enquiry. Core debates relating to social change, equality and inequalities, discrimination, risk and dependency, citizenship, and rights are examined, including the impact of devolution on social policy in Wales.
Social and Political Theory
30 CreditsExplores the relationship between social and political theory, social action, movements, modernity, capitalism, social change, research, and everyday life. Encourages students to reflect on their own position as participants in social and political interaction.
Research Methods in Social Sciences
30 CreditsIntroduces the main varieties of both quantitative and qualitative research in the social sciences. Principles of research design and issues of data collection and analysis are studied, providing a comprehensive foundation for your dissertation work.
Applied Social Research
30 CreditsProvides training in social science research with a focus on the specialist degree studied. Students engage in hypothesis development, research design, data gathering, data analysis, and interpretation of results through an empirical group project.
Teaches students how to generate qualitative data and apply a variety of analysis techniques, including text analysis, visual interpretation, and online social research. Training in NVivo qualitative data analysis software is an integral part of the module.
Dissertation
60 CreditsA sustained independent research project of approximately 20,000 words on a topic of your choice. Students receive full support from lecturing staff throughout the process, from the planning stage through to the final stages of writing the final version.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements for MA Social Policy
Bangor University welcomes applications from graduates with strong academic backgrounds in social policy and related disciplines. Candidates with relevant professional experience are also encouraged to apply. To begin your application, reach out to Uni4Edu for personalised guidance and support throughout the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeMinimum 2:2 (Lower Second Class Honours) or equivalent in Social Policy or a related academic discipline
- Related DisciplinesSociology, Political Science, Social Anthropology, Sociolinguistics, and similar social science fields
- Professional ExperienceApplicants with relevant professional experience may also be admitted with substantiated evidence in their application
- InterviewApplicants admitted on the basis of professional experience may be interviewed before an offer is made
- International QualificationsEquivalent international qualifications are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for country-specific guidance
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.0, with no element below 5.5
- Pearson PTEScore of 56, with no element lower than 51
- Cambridge English AdvancedScore of 169, with no element lower than 162
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Bangor University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to help international and home students fund their postgraduate studies. The university makes over GBP 1,000,000 in bursaries and scholarships available for new and returning students each year. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised advice on funding opportunities relevant to your profile.
Bangor International Scholarship
Up to GBP 3,000Available for all international postgraduate taught students. Awarded based on course choice, academic performance, personal statement, references, and experience. No separate application required — all international applicants are automatically considered.
Bangor Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000A competitive scholarship for outstanding postgraduate students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement. Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate recipients, with amounts varying based on merit and eligibility criteria.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
Full funding (tuition, living costs, travel)Jointly funded by Bangor University and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission for masters study. Open to eligible candidates from Commonwealth countries who meet the academic and residency requirements. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for MA Social Policy Graduates
Graduates of the MA Social Policy programme are well-prepared for a diverse range of careers across the public, private, and third sectors. The programme develops critical thinking, analytical, and research skills that are highly valued by employers in welfare, government, and policy-related fields.
Typical Career Paths
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Bangor University is a well-established institution founded in 1884 with a strong reputation for research and teaching quality. In the government's Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), 85% of research at Bangor was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. The university is ranked across multiple international and national league tables.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 150 |
| Psychology | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 350 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 350 |
| Economics | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 700 |
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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