MSc International Social and Public Policy

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

London School of Economics and Political Science

Program Overview

The MSc International Social and Public Policy at the London School of Economics and Political Science is designed for students who want to understand how social policies are shaped across different countries and how they respond to global challenges such as inequality, poverty, migration and welfare reform. It is particularly well suited to those aiming for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs or policy research, offering rigorous training in comparative analysis and evidence-based policymaking.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, you develop a strong conceptual and analytical foundation through core courses such as International Social and Public Policy and Understanding Policy Research. These modules introduce key debates in comparative social policy while building your ability to design and evaluate research. Alongside this, you complete a Dissertation in International Social and Public Policy, allowing you to investigate a policy issue in depth, and choose from a range of optional courses within the Department of Social Policy to specialise in areas that align with your interests.

Focus areas (in a string):

Comparative social policy, global social challenges, welfare systems, policy analysis, research methods, evidence-based policymaking, international development and governance

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Develop advanced knowledge of international and comparative social policy, critically evaluate policy frameworks across countries, apply qualitative and quantitative research methods, design independent research projects, formulate evidence-based policy recommendations, communicate complex policy analysis effectively

Professional alignment (accreditation):

Delivered by LSE’s Department of Social Policy, a department internationally recognised for excellence in research and teaching, and ranked first in the UK for social policy in major league tables, ensuring strong academic credibility and professional relevance.

Reputation (employability rankings):

LSE is consistently ranked among the world’s leading institutions for social sciences in the QS World University Rankings, and its graduates are highly sought after in public service, international organisations, research institutions and the third sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MSc International Social and Public Policy at LSE, learning goes far beyond lectures. You develop practical research and policy skills by engaging directly with real-world social challenges, working alongside academics in the Department of Social Policy who are actively shaping debates on welfare reform, inequality and global governance. Through close dissertation supervision, specialist seminars and London-based engagement opportunities, you learn how to turn theory into rigorous, evidence-based analysis. You’ll also benefit from access to world-class research facilities that support independent investigation at an advanced level:

Independent dissertation research with one-to-one academic supervision, allowing you to design and carry out an in-depth policy research project
Research training through the core course Understanding Policy Research, developing advanced qualitative and quantitative analytical skills
Specialist research centres and institutes within the Department of Social Policy that host seminars and public events with global policy experts
The British Library of Political and Economic Science at LSE, one of the world’s leading social science research libraries
Access to LSE’s Data Library and digital research resources supporting empirical policy analysis
Academic workshops, guest lectures and policy-focused events connecting students with practitioners, researchers and alumni
A central London location that enables engagement with government departments, think tanks, NGOs and international organisations

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc International Social and Public Policy at LSE move into influential roles where they help shape social and public policy at national and international levels. Many go on to work in government departments, international organisations, NGOs, research institutes and consultancies, applying their expertise to real policy challenges. Common career paths include policy analyst, research associate, programme officer and consultant, particularly in areas such as social protection, inequality, migration and development policy:

Dedicated support from LSE Careers, including one-to-one career coaching, CV and interview preparation, sector-focused workshops, employer networking events and access to CareerHub for internships and graduate roles
Continued access to LSE Careers services for up to five years after graduation, giving you long-term professional support
Strong employer links across the public, private and third sectors, with alumni working in organisations such as UN agencies, international NGOs, government ministries and global policy consultancies
The global reputation of an LSE degree, consistently ranked among the top institutions worldwide for social sciences, enhancing long-term professional credibility
Graduates securing professional and analytical roles shortly after completing the programme, reflecting the international relevance and applied nature of the skills developed

Further Academic Progression:
If you decide to continue your studies, this MSc provides excellent preparation for research degrees such as an MPhil or PhD in social policy, public policy, development studies or related fields. The advanced research training and dissertation component equip you with the methodological and analytical foundation needed for doctoral study, whether at LSE or other leading international universities.