Social and Public Policy MA

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Leeds

Program Overview

The MA Social and Public Policy at the University of Leeds offers an in-depth exploration of social and public policy issues, equipping students with the skills to critically analyse and evaluate real-world policies. This program suits graduates in social sciences or related disciplines who are keen to understand policy-making processes and their societal impacts, and to engage with pressing issues like welfare, migration, and ageing populations.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In this intensive 12-month program, students begin by studying Public Administration: Policy, Planning and Development in a Globalised World, which introduces the global context of policymaking. They develop rigorous research skills through Research Strategy and Design, gaining expertise in methods and theoretical assumptions that underpin social research. The year also includes Policy and Programme Evaluation and Social Policy Debates, providing hands-on experience in critically analysing policies, while the Dissertation allows students to undertake an independent research project on a topic of their choice.

Focus Areas: Social policy analysis, policy evaluation, social research methods, welfare, migration, family and child policy, ageing populations, disability studies, gender studies, ethnicity studies, globalisation.

Learning Outcomes: Develop critical understanding of social policy issues, design and execute research projects, analyse and evaluate public policies, apply theoretical and methodological knowledge to practical challenges, enhance independent and reflective thinking, engage with interdisciplinary research.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): While not explicitly accredited, the program prepares graduates for professional roles in policy, research, and social services.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): University of Leeds is ranked among the top UK universities for Social Sciences, and graduates from this program gain skills highly sought by public, private, and third-sector organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Leeds, the MA Social and Public Policy degree goes beyond lectures and essays to give you practical experience and access to real-world policy environments. As a student on this programme, you’ll be part of a research-intensive community linked to the Leeds Social Sciences Institute and a range of interdisciplinary research centres that run workshops, seminars, and public events — helping you sharpen your analytical skills and engage with current policy debates in meaningful ways. You’ll also benefit from state-of-the-art academic facilities, including dedicated postgraduate spaces and extensive library resources that support both independent research and collaborative work:

In addition to your core coursework, experiential learning opportunities include:

Access to the Leeds Social Sciences Institute and specialist research centres such as the Centre for Disability Studies, Centre for Ethnicity and Racism Studies, and the Centre for Research on Families, Life Course and Generations, where regular seminars, speaker events, and research workshops let you connect with active researchers and policy professionals.
A postgraduate-only research hub in the Edward Boyle Library with bookable study rooms, large screens, and collaborative spaces perfect for group projects, dissertation planning, and peer discussion.
Extensive library resources from the Brotherton and Edward Boyle Libraries, giving you access to millions of print and digital resources, specialist collections, and expert support for evidence-based research and literature reviews.
Workshops, webinars, and one-to-one support from library staff on academic skills such as research design, digital tools, critical thinking, and dissertation writing — all essential for success in policy analysis and evaluation.
A variety of learning formats including presentations, seminars, collaborative workshops, and tutorials that mirror professional environments, helping you build your communication, teamwork, and analytical skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA Social and Public Policy at the University of Leeds leave equipped with a strong foundation in policy analysis, research, and critical thinking, ready to step confidently into roles that influence public, private, and third-sector organisations. Many go on to careers in policy research, government and public administration, social research, and consultancy, supported by the University’s dedicated career services and its strong reputation in the social sciences:

Career support services: The University of Leeds Careers Centre and faculty staff offer tailored guidance from your first term through to graduation and beyond, including help with CVs, interview preparation, networking opportunities, and advice on sector-specific recruitment.
Employment outcomes and salary prospects: Surveys show that a high proportion of graduates in social policy and related fields find employment or continue their studies within 15 months of finishing. Many move into skilled roles with competitive salaries reflecting professional social science careers.
Typical job roles: Policy analyst, research associate, government or public service officer, advocacy or programme coordinator across central and local government, research consultancies, community and health organisations, and NGOs.
University–industry connections: Through events, employer talks, and collaborative research networks within the Leeds Social Sciences Institute and associated research centres, students have opportunities to connect with policy professionals and organisations, building valuable networks before graduation.
Long-term value: Although the MA is not linked to a specific professional accreditation, the rigorous training in research methods and policy evaluation adds credibility and versatility to your profile in both national and international job markets.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MA, many students choose to continue with doctoral study (PhD) in social policy, public policy, sociology, or related disciplines, leveraging their research skills and academic grounding to pursue careers in academia or advanced research. Others use the qualification as a springboard into specialised postgraduate diplomas or professional qualifications in areas such as public administration, international development, or social research methods, broadening both their academic and professional horizons.