Social Policy with Quantitative Methods MA
Central Area Campus, United Kingdom
Social Policy with Quantitative Methods MA (Hons)
University of Edinburgh
Social Policy & Quantitative Methods
Program Overview: Social Policy with Quantitative Methods
The Social Policy with Quantitative Methods MA (Hons) at the University of Edinburgh equips you to engage confidently in the major political and social debates of our time. You will explore a wide array of policy areas including health, welfare, labour markets, education, and family and childhood, while developing strong data analysis skills that are highly valued by employers.
This programme combines the study of how policies affect society and the economy with rigorous training in quantitative research methods. You will learn to critically assess how policies are made, what actors and processes influence the policy-making process, and how to use numerical evidence systematically to support evidence-based planning.
Supported by the UK-wide Q-Step initiative, this programme offers small class sizes and close proximity to leading experts in the field. Around one quarter of your study time is devoted to quantitative methods, and there is dedicated support available if you are less confident with mathematics. You also have the option to study abroad or undertake a work placement in Year 3.
Key Program Highlights
- Q-Step Centre funding provides small class sizes and hands-on quantitative training with expert supervision
- Social Policy at Edinburgh is ranked 10th in the world in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026
- Option to study abroad in Year 3 at partner universities across Europe, North America, and beyond
- Summer work placement opportunities in Year 3 to apply data skills in real-world policy settings
Curriculum & Modules
The programme is structured across four years, with the flexibility to study a range of subjects outside your degree in Years 1 and 2. Core social policy courses run throughout the programme, while quantitative methods training intensifies in later years, culminating in a dissertation that draws on your combined analytical and policy expertise.
Introduction to Social Policy
20 creditsAn introductory course exploring how government policies affect different parts of society, examining key concepts in welfare, health, education, and social justice.
Quantitative Methods for Social Scientists
20 creditsFoundation course in quantitative research methods, teaching you how to handle data and use numerical evidence systematically in social science contexts.
Evidence, Economy and Social Policy
20 creditsFocuses on the economic dimension of social policy and critically examines the use and misuse of underlying evidence in policy debates.
Statistical Modelling for Social Scientists
20 creditsAn advanced course in statistical modelling techniques applied to social science research, building on foundational quantitative skills from earlier years.
Comparative Social Policy
20 creditsExamines how different systems of social policy result in very different relationships between the state, the market, and other actors across national contexts.
Dissertation
40 creditsAn independent research project in Year 4 where you apply your social policy knowledge and quantitative methods skills to investigate a topic of your choice.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Social Policy with Quantitative Methods MA (Hons) is competitive. You will need to demonstrate strong academic ability, particularly in mathematics, alongside meeting English language requirements. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on your eligibility and application.
Academic Requirements
- A LevelsAAA (standard offer); Mathematics at B or AS Mathematics at A required
- SQA HighersAAAB by end of S5 or AAAA by end of S6; Mathematics at B required
- International Baccalaureate37 points with 666 at Higher Level; Mathematics at HL 5 or SL 6
- GCSEsEnglish at C or 4
- International QualificationsA wide range of international qualifications are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for equivalency guidance
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicTotal 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component
- TOEFL iBTTotal 92 with at least 20 in each component
- Other TestsPTE Academic and other recognised tests accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for undergraduate students, including those on the Social Policy with Quantitative Methods programme. Contact Uni4Edu for help identifying and applying for scholarships that match your profile.
Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarship
A merit-based scholarship available to international students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement, helping to offset the cost of studying at Edinburgh.
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 are equipped with a highly sought-after combination of social policy knowledge and advanced quantitative skills. There is currently a shortage of graduates with strong quantitative abilities in the UK, which means your combined skill set will be in high demand across government, the private sector, and international organisations.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Edinburgh is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities in the world. Its Social Policy subject area is particularly highly regarded, ranking 10th globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, with an academic reputation score of 93.6 placing Edinburgh 8th in the world for peer esteem in the discipline.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Policy & Administration | QS World Rankings by Subject | #10 |
| Social Policy | The Times Good University Guide | #3 in UK |
| Sociology | QS World Rankings by Subject | #28 |
| Social Sciences | THE World Rankings by Subject | #38 |
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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