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Master's degrees in social and policy sciences

Find out more about our courses and explore why Bath is a great place to study your master’s degree.

Which course is right for me?

View our courses to find out which one might be right for you.


MSc Criminology

Gain a deeper understanding of the contemporary challenges faced by policymakers and law enforcement organisations across the world. You'll critically examine the mechanisms that can be used to prevent and manage these, and how they can be applied more effectively.

MSc Global Public Health and Policy

Gain a deeper understanding of the major public health threats faced by humanity. You'll explore how impactful policy can improve lives at community and population levels.

MSc Humanitarianism, Conflict and Development

Develop your understanding of conflict and humanitarian crises on this part-time, distance learning course. You’ll focus on the tools and approaches needed to respond to these challenges.

MSc International Development

Learn what it means to be a global citizen and gain the skills and tools to make a difference in the world. You'll deepen your knowledge of major global challenges, such as of poverty, inequality, conflict, sustainability, and social justice.

You can choose from four pathways:

MSc Public Policy

This is a part-time, distance learning course designed with working professionals in mind. You'll explore creative approaches to contemporary public policy strategy, design, and delivery in a global context.

Master of Research (MRes) degrees

We offer a range of Master of Research (MRes) degrees that cover major areas within social and policy sciences. Find out more about what an MRes degree is and why it might be the right option for you.

Studying a master’s in social and policy sciences

Listen to academics from our Department of Social & Policy Sciences talk about the range of campus-based and distance-learning postgraduate degrees we offer, as well as related interdisciplinary master's and MRes courses.


Why study with Bath?


Highly ranked in independent league tables, we are known for excellence in teaching and research, a superb student experience, and providing outstanding preparation for the workplace.

University Rankings and Reputation
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Join a vibrant department


The Department of Social & Policy Sciences is one of the UK's leading centres for social sciences. On joining the department, you will be able to benefit from the research taking place within a number research groups and centres, including the Centre for Development Studies and the Centre for the Analysis of Social Policy and Society.

We focus on the issues that matter now. For example, academics from the department have been working on projects relating to the impact of Covid-19 in developing countries.

Find out more about the department
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Talk to us live

We hold several events throughout the year giving you the chance to ask your questions via our virtual online platform.


Both academics and our student ambassadors will be available to answer your questions on anything from studying from distance, to the course structure. Why not join us for our next event?

Get in touch

If you have any questions about our courses, you can contact our admissions team.