Master's in Social Sciences in United Kingdom

MA Anthrozoology

This Master of Arts (MA) in Anthrozoology offers a unique opportunity to explore the complex relationships between humans and animals across various cultural, historical, and geographical contexts. The program is designed for those interested in understanding how humans perceive, interact with, and co-exist with other species. It is particularly relevant for individuals seeking Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in fields such as veterinary science, conservation, animal welfare, and related professions, as well as for graduates from social science or science backgrounds wishing to expand their research into the human-animal bond. The flexible distance learning format allows students to balance their studies with existing professional and personal commitments. An optional residential module provides a valuable opportunity for in-person engagement with peers and academics.

MA Community Studies

MA Social Anthropology

This MA in Social Anthropology is designed for individuals with a passion for understanding human societies, whether you are new to the field or looking to deepen your existing knowledge. The program offers a strong foundation in anthropological theory, methodology, and the diverse range of ethnographic studies. You will learn from leading academics in the field of Anthropology, recognized among the top in the UK. The curriculum allows for personalized study through a variety of optional modules, enabling you to focus on specific theoretical or regional interests. Topics can include gender and sexuality, religion, political economy, psychological perspectives, human rights, and visual anthropology. You will join a vibrant community of students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a rich exchange of perspectives.

MPhil in Social Anthropology

The MPhil in Social Anthropology at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the analytical and methodological aspects of social anthropology. This 21-month full-time course allows students to develop an extensive research project, which may include fieldwork. It serves as an excellent standalone qualification or as in-depth preparation for doctoral research, going beyond the scope of an MSc degree. Social anthropology explores humans as inherently social beings, questioning underlying assumptions that shape societies and cultures globally. The program teaches students to critically examine diverse worldviews, fostering a comparative understanding of human similarities and differences. Through rigorous academic engagement, you will learn to relate various interpretations of the world, developing key skills for a career in anthropology.

MRes in Social Science

The MRes in Social Science is a one-year postgraduate degree designed to equip you with advanced research skills in the social sciences. This program combines specialized and general methods training, offering transferable skills beneficial for employment in the public, private, and third sectors, as well as preparing you for doctoral studies. It is recognized under the Economic and Social Research Council’s (ESRC) Scottish Doctoral Training Programme, Sociology Pathway. The curriculum includes taught courses and a supervised research project, focusing on qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. You will gain practical experience by applying learned methods to topics of your choice, allowing you to tailor your training to your specific interests. The dissertation component further develops your practical, intellectual, and critical skills in a substantive area of interest.

MSc Anthropology

MSc Bioarchaeology: Forensic Anthropology

The MSc Bioarchaeology: Forensic Anthropology program at the University of Exeter is designed for students interested in the intersection of archaeological science and legal investigations. This master's degree provides a unique interdisciplinary approach, combining knowledge from biological anthropology, archaeology, and forensic science to focus on the recovery, identification, and analysis of human remains for purposes with legal significance. It is ideal for those who wish to apply scientific methodologies to solve real-world problems and contribute to the justice system. The course is taught full-time on campus over one year and includes access to specialized laboratory facilities.

MSc Philosophy of Economics and the Social Sciences

The MSc in Philosophy of Economics and the Social Sciences provides a unique opportunity to critically examine the methodologies employed in economics and other social sciences. It also delves into ethical considerations surrounding the application of scientific knowledge in policy, economic contexts, and civil society. LSE is renowned globally as a leading institution for social science, and its Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method is distinguished for its research that integrates philosophy with social and natural sciences, emphasizing social relevance. Faculty members are actively involved in cutting-edge research at the intersection of philosophy and various social sciences, including behavioural science, cognitive science, economics, health policy, data science, and politics.

Social Anthropology MA (Honours)

The MA (Hons) Social Anthropology at St Andrews offers a comprehensive exploration of the vast diversity of human experiences, examining what makes us similar and different. You will develop a comparative and global perspective on human life, culture, and society, studying how people create meaning in varied contexts across the world. The course delves into topics such as belief systems, politics, gender, health, art, migration, colonialism, and environmental relationships, encouraging critical thinking about taken-for-granted ideas and fostering an understanding of different worldviews. The program is structured over four years, with the first two years introducing foundational concepts and methods, alongside studies in other subjects. The final two years focus on specialized areas of interest and culminate in a dissertation.

Social Inequalities and Research Methods (MSc)

This Master of Science (MSc) program focuses on the critical examination of social inequalities and equips you with advanced research methodologies to study them. You will gain a strong theoretical understanding of the processes that create and perpetuate social disparities, alongside practical skills in empirical research methods. The course is led by the Sociology department, offering a comprehensive approach to understanding the causes and effects of social inequality.

Social Research Methods MA

This MA programme focuses on developing advanced research skills specifically for examining, analysing, and understanding societal, cultural, institutional, and practical dynamics. You will explore how these elements originate, how they function in contemporary society, and how they evolve over time. The programme is delivered by a department recognized for its leading research in areas that support social justice, providing a stimulating and supportive environment to delve into the complexities of social life and consider how we can collectively shape future societal directions.

Social Research MRes

This Master of Research (MRes) degree offers advanced theoretical and practical training in social research methods. You will learn from internationally recognised experts in sociology, social policy, and criminology within a supportive academic environment. The course explores key social issues such as inequality, online behaviour, crime, and health, equipping you with the skills to understand societal trends and contribute to positive change. You will be guided through the principles and practices of social research, culminating in an extensive independent research project supervised by a faculty expert. This program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills, preparing you for further doctoral study or research-oriented careers.