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Comparative and International Social Policy

Social Sciences

Taught

MA

  • Overview
  • Application Timeline
  • Tuition
  • Requirements
  • Modules
  • About
  • Subject Area Information
  • Career
  • Similar courses

Overview

This graduate program trains individuals in international policy analysis and research, focusing on higher income OECD countries and their global implications. It combines coursework with a supervised dissertation, equipping participants with in-depth knowledge and research experience in social policy. Targeted at current and aspiring professionals in international policy, government, and NGOs, it emphasizes comparative perspectives.

Application Timeline

  1. September 1, 2025
    Start date
  2. March 19, 2026
    Today

Tuition

Year 1
Student categories Study
Full-time Part-time
Republic of Ireland£10,590£5,295
EU£23,900£11,950
England£10,590£5,295
Northern Ireland£10,590£5,295
Scotland£10,590£5,295
Wales£10,590£5,295
Channel Islands£10,590£5,295
International£23,900£11,950

Requirements

Entry Requirements:
Language Requirements

Language requirements information is currently unavailable.

Modules

Modules is currently unavailable

Please check back later for updates.

About

The programme focuses on training in policy analysis and research with an international and comparative perspective.

Target Audience

This programme is designed for individuals currently working in or aspiring to work in:

  • International policy analysis
  • Policy development in governments
  • Charities and NGOs globally

Approach and Curriculum

The programme employs a broad international approach, primarily based on:

  • Conceptual and empirical analyses of higher income countries within the OECD
  • Application of these analyses to a wider global context

It includes a mix of:

  • Taught coursework
  • Supervised dissertation

Learning Outcomes

Participants will...

Subject Area Information

International Social Policy is a multidisciplinary field that examines the development, implementation, and impact of social policies across different countries and regions. This discipline integrates perspectives from sociology, political science, economics, and international relations to understand how social policies are formulated and their effects on global populations.

Typical Course Structure
  • 1. Introduction to International Social Policy

  • 2. Comparative Social Policy

  • 3. Globalization and Social Policy

  • 4. Social Policy and Development

  • 5. Human Rights and Social Policy

Typical Skills Acquired
  • Analytical Skills
  • Research Skills
  • Policy Formulation
  • Cross-Cultural Competence

Career

A discipline in International Social Policy equips students with the knowledge and skills to analyze, develop, and implement social policies on a global scale. The interdisciplinary nature of the field opens up diverse career opportunities in government, international organizations, NGOs, and academia.

Potential Professions
  • Policy Analyst

    Working for government agencies, think tanks, or international organizations to analyze and develop social policies.

  • Social Researcher

    Conducting research for academic institutions, NGOs, or private sector organizations.

  • International Development Consultant

    Advising on social policy issues in developing countries.

  • Human Rights Advocate

    Working with organizations to promote and protect human rights through social policy.

  • Public Health Administrator

    Designing and implementing health policies at local, national, or international levels.

Similar courses

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Heslington, York, YO10 5DD
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Contact

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Heslington, York, YO10 5DD
Get expert guidance

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