MA in Social Policy
Main Campus, Hungary
Master of Arts in Social Policy
University of Pécs
Social Policy
Program Overview: MA in Social Policy
The MA in Social Policy at the University of Pécs trains professionals who can participate at global, national, regional, and local levels in the formulation of societal and social policies. Housed within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Hungary's oldest university (founded in 1367), this program combines rigorous theoretical grounding with practical methodological skills applicable across the public, non-profit, and private sectors.
Students choose between two specializations: Employment Policy or Territorial/Rural Development Policy. Through these tracks, graduates learn to plan and operate social and human service systems, represent employee and community interests, and conduct research that informs evidence-based policymaking at multiple governance levels.
The program also prepares graduates for doctoral studies, making it an ideal stepping stone for those interested in academic careers in social sciences. With Pécs recognized as a vibrant cultural hub in southern Hungary and the university offering over 100 English-taught programs, international students benefit from a truly multicultural learning environment.
Key Program Highlights
- Two specializations available: Employment Policy and Territorial/Rural Development Policy
- 240 hours of mandatory professional practice in external institutions to develop autonomous work competencies
- Fully English-taught program at Hungary's oldest and one of its largest universities
- Direct pathway to doctoral programs in social sciences and related fields
Curriculum & Modules
The MA in Social Policy curriculum spans four semesters and is structured around core social sciences modules, specialized policy courses, and hands-on professional practice. Students complete 70-90 credits in Social Sciences (including Sociology and multidisciplinary Social Sciences), with 50-70 credits devoted to Societal and Social Policy and 10-40 credits in Law, Economics, and Humanities, culminating in a thesis.
Societal and Social Policy Foundations
12 ECTSProvides a comprehensive grounding in the theoretical frameworks, historical development, and comparative analysis of social policy systems across Europe and globally.
Research Methodology in Social Sciences
10 ECTSCovers qualitative and quantitative research methods, data analysis techniques, and research design skills essential for policy analysis and academic inquiry.
Employment Policy and Labour Markets
10 ECTSExamines labor market dynamics, employment regulation frameworks, workforce development strategies, and the role of social policy in shaping employment outcomes.
Territorial and Rural Development Policy
10 ECTSFocuses on regional development strategies, rural policy challenges, community-level governance, and the intersection of spatial planning with social policy objectives.
Law, Economics, and Humanities for Social Policy
10 ECTSProvides interdisciplinary knowledge in legal frameworks, economic principles, and humanistic perspectives that underpin effective social policy formulation and implementation.
Professional Practice and Thesis
18 ECTSIncludes 240 hours of supervised fieldwork in external institutions alongside research seminars, workshops, and the completion of a master's thesis on a social policy topic.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MA in Social Policy program involves evaluation of submitted documents and an online interview. Applicants are assessed on their academic background, motivation, knowledge and work experience, communication skills, and career plans. To apply, submit your materials through Uni4Edu, and our team will guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Previous DegreeBachelor's degree in Social Policy, Social Work, Social Pedagogy, Sociology, or a related social sciences field
- Non-Matching DegreesApplicants from non-matching fields may be required to complete additional BA-level prerequisite courses during the MA program
- GPA RequirementContact Uni4Edu for current GPA or grade requirements
- Entrance ExaminationOnline oral interview (approximately 10-15 minutes) assessing background, motivation, analytical ability, and awareness of socio-political issues
- Interview PreparationCandidates are asked to read a pre-assigned academic article on social policy topics before the interview
Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum B2 level (upper-intermediate); contact Uni4Edu for specific score requirements
- TOEFLEquivalent to B2 level; contact Uni4Edu for specific score requirements
- ExemptionApplicants who completed their previous degree in English may be exempt with a certificate confirming English-medium instruction
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
International students pursuing the MA in Social Policy at the University of Pécs can access several funding opportunities. Hungary is known for its generous government-backed scholarship programs, and the university's affordable location in Pécs further reduces overall study costs. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on scholarship eligibility and application support.
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
Full tuition waiver plus monthly stipend of approximately HUF 43,700 and accommodation supportA prestigious fully funded scholarship by the Hungarian Government covering tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, dormitory placement or housing contribution, and medical insurance for the full duration of the program. Available to citizens of over 90 partner countries.
University of Pécs Institutional Scholarships
The University of Pécs may offer merit-based tuition reductions or scholarships to outstanding international students. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by academic year and are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Erasmus+ and EU Mobility Grants
Varies by sending country and mobility typeEU-funded mobility grants may be available for eligible students participating in exchange semesters or joint programs. These grants can supplement living costs during study periods at partner institutions across Europe.
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 MA in Social Policy are equipped to work across multiple sectors and governance levels, from local community organizations to international bodies. The program's dual specialization tracks in Employment Policy and Territorial/Rural Development Policy ensure that graduates possess both broad analytical capabilities and focused expertise highly valued in today's policy landscape.
Potential Job Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Pécs is Hungary's oldest university, founded in 1367, and is consistently recognized among the top institutions in the country. It is featured in the top 1,000 universities worldwide across multiple major ranking systems and holds a leading position in sustainability rankings. The university's Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences benefits from this strong institutional reputation.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #5 in Hungary |
| Social Sciences (Sociology) | EduRank | #1199 Worldwide |
| Psychology | EduRank | #4 in Hungary |
| Sustainability | UI GreenMetric | #1 in Hungary |
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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