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Graduate (Taught)
Application code:L4U7
Department of Social Policy

MSc International Social and Public Policy (Development)

Learn how to shape impactful social development policies and drive change.
Discover the MSc in International Social and Public Policy (Development)

Overview

Introduction

This broad-ranging programme examines how societies respond to global challenges resulting from social, demographic and economic change, and issues around poverty, migration and globalisation. Looking at low, middle and high-income countries, you’ll gain the skills to identify key social challenges and analyse the social and public policies designed to tackle these issues.

We approach the policy process from an international, interdisciplinary and applied perspective. You’ll delve into the differences between social policy development and implementation in different countries and the roles of stakeholders such as governments, NGOs, families and markets.

Building on this foundation, you’ll then follow one of seven streams.

You can take either the general stream:

Or you can choose one of the following specialist streams:

Our department is rated number one in the UK for social policy (Good University Guide 2024). We were also awarded the highest UK ranking for research in the field of social policy in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (2021). So, you’ll be studying in a vibrant, highly rated research environment.

This page covers information about the specialist stream: MSc International Social and Public Policy (Development).

This stream equips you with the analytical tools to understand and critically evaluate social development challenges in low and middle-income countries. You’ll explore various international policy and development themes, such as race, regulation, civil society and conflict, and compare how different countries address these challenges.

Optional courses enable you to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals. Current courses cover topics such as migration, non-governmental organisations, social policy and development, and social movements and activism.

You’ll complete a dissertation on a social development topic (agreed with your supervisor).

When you graduate, you’ll have the skills to contribute to the design and implementation of policies that promote sustainable development worldwide.

Entry requirements

Upper second class honours (2:1) degree or equivalent in a relevant social science.

Please select your country from the dropdown list below to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

Overseas

English language requirements

The English language requirement for this programme is Higher. Read more about our English language requirements.

Competition for places at LSE is strong. So, even if you meet the minimum entry requirements, this does not guarantee you an offer of a place.

However, please don’t feel deterred from applying – we want to hear from all suitably qualified students. Think carefully about how you can put together the strongest possible application to help you stand out from other students.

Programme content

Year 1

You'll take three compulsory courses and complete a dissertation. You'll also choose courses from a wide range of further options to the value of one and a half units.

Why study with us

Discover more about our students and department.

Meet the department

The Department of Social Policy is an internationally recognised centre of research and teaching excellence in social and public policy.

From its formation in 1912, the department has conducted pioneering research on contemporary social problems and helped develop policy solutions.

The department has an interdisciplinary and international outlook. Our academics conduct research on pressing global issues such as poverty, inequality, crime, unemployment, healthcare, education and housing. Collectively, our faculty team draw on their backgrounds in anthropology, demography, economics, political science, sociology, as well as social and public policy.

We advise national and international governments and organisations and our research shapes decision-making and policy direction at the highest levels.

Within the department, we offer a mix of undergraduate and postgraduate study opportunities. Our department is rated number one in the UK for social policy (Good University Guide 2024). We were also awarded the highest UK ranking for research in the field of social policy in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (2021).

The teaching curriculum is research-led, focused on applying global insights and supporting students with their learning at every stage of their journey.

Our alumni work in prominent government positions, national and international NGOs, the public and private sectors, and universities across the world.

Learn more about our programmes and research.

Your application

Overview

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified prospective students. At LSE, we want to recruit students with the best academic merit, potential and motivation, irrespective of background.

We carefully consider each application and take into account all the information included on your application form, such as your:

  • academic achievement (including predicted and achieved grades)
  • statement of academic purpose
  • two academic references
  • CV.

See further information on supporting documents.

You may need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. See our English language requirements.

Please note: The applications, intake and ratio values below include all the streams of this programme.

919
Applications
187
Intake
5:1
2023 Ratio

Fees and funding

The table of fees shows the latest tuition fees for all programmes.

You're charged a fee for your programme. At LSE, your tuition fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It doesn't cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Home

£18,500

Home student fee (2025/26)

For this programme, the tuition fee is different for home and overseas students depending on their fee status.

Learning and assessment

How you learn

Graduate destinations

Overview

Students who have graduated from programmes similar to this have gone on to work for:

  • different UN agencies including UNDP, UNICEF and UNHCR
  • a variety of small and large NGOs including Oxfam, Médecins Sans Frontières, International Red Cross and One World
  • action international or intergovernmental organisations such as the World Economic Forum, European Commission and World Bank
  • consulting companies
  • government ministries.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Find out more

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