Social Policy MRes

Develop in-depth knowledge and skills of research methods. Prepare yourself for an academic or professional career with a focus on social and public policy.

The MRes Social Policy is designed for those developing careers as policy analysts or applied researchers in national or international social or public policy organisations or government departments; and prospective PhD students in social or public policy.

You’ll develop in-depth knowledge and skills relating to the research methods used to analyse, compare and evaluate social and public policies. You'll be supported in identifying, investigating and realising your own original research within an active research community. We encourage a diverse intake in terms of experience, qualifications and interests, to stimulate mutual experience and learning.

South West Doctoral Training Partnership

This MRes is recognised by the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC), specifically, as part of the larger South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP). It can be taken as a course in its own right or if you hold an SWDTP studentship you can take the 1+3 (MRes + PhD) pathway.

If you wish to be considered for a 1+3 SWDTP studentship, then you must apply for your preferred PhD route and not the stand alone MRes. You should follow our how to apply and funding guidelines.

For those holding a 1+3 SWDTP studentship, progression from the MRes to the MPhil or PhD stage is dependent on an acceptable level of achievement.

Graduate prospects

Our graduates generally go on to work in a wide variety of organisations and roles, such as:

• social research in universities and research institutes, government, business, voluntary organisations and international organisations
• public policy analysis at local, national and international levels
• public information provision and campaigning within organisations concerned with wellbeing, sustainability and social justice

You should have a bachelor’s honours degree or international equivalent, typically 2:1 or above. To apply for this course you should have an undergraduate degree in social policy, sociology, politics or a relevant social sciences subject. We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.