MSc in International Economic and Social Justice

The MSc International Economic and Social Justice is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills which will allow you to evaluate and assess economic and social policy interventions. The programme will also enable you to consider how such policies could be improved.

All of the modules on the programme are designed to address real-world issues around economic and social justice. The concept of social justice is based on the advancement of human rights and equality and this programme is designed to utilise economic analysis to evaluate and improve existing policies designed to promote social justice. By the end of the Master's programme, you will have developed a deep understanding of the public policymaking process and have enhanced your quantitative and qualitative skills in analysing policy from a socio-economic justice perspective.

This is a research-led Masters degree. The in-depth programme of study will develop your outlook and capacity for critical analysis. Contemporary policy challenges shape the course; with a focus on issues including poverty and income inequalities, environmental degradation, migration, globalised labour markets, gender discrimination and the gender pay gap, public service reform and changing global economic structures.

The programme makes extensive use of the skills, knowledge and research undertaken by the Women in Scotland’s Economy (WiSE) Research Centre for Economic Justice based in the Department of Economics and Law. You will also benefit from the research strengths within the Glasgow School for Business and Society. The school is a leader in the field of gender and feminist economics and is also at the forefront of research in the fields of migration, economic inequality and globalisation.

It is a student-centred, practical and participative environment. You will study alongside graduates from other disciplines and backgrounds. You will acquire solid analytical skills backed by theoretical understanding.

Teaching methods

Student-centred

We put you at the centre of your education. A high level of participation and practical engagement is encouraged throughout. At times you will work individually, at other times you will be part of a team. You will be encouraged to articulate and discuss your ideas at tutorials and in exercises.

Guest speakers

You will be introduced to a range of guest speakers on and off-campus. You will have the opportunity to learn from established and respected experts sharing their authentic life experience. This can lead to a better understanding of how your own career could develop.

Learning and teaching experience

Your learning experience will help develop skills that can be applied in a working environment.

The MSc International Economic & Social Justice programme involves a broad range of teaching and learning methods. These include lectures, tutorials, case studies and presentations as well as videos, podcasts and online discussions. These are all underpinned by the University’s commitment to the Common Good and its pledge to the PRME initiative.

Modules are practical and participative. You will be expected to submit essays and presentations both individually and as a member of a group.

Several modules encourage a greater level of independent and peer-supported learning. Topics and issues are initially introduced through reading and online engagement. This means class time can be devoted to exploring the subjects in more depth. You will participate in role-playing and problem-solving scenarios. These will give you the experience and confidence you need to take the next step in your career.

Course work is assessed in a variety of ways. There is a balance of individual essays, participation in seminars, individual and group reports, presentations, blogs and exams. Assessment methods are designed to give you the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the course. They also show employers that you have developed the skills that they are looking for in the workplace.

For your Masters Research Project, you will be introduced to key research methods and theories. You will undertake an in-depth project with the opportunity to apply research concepts, theories and techniques.

Every aspect of the programme is inspired by our Common Good mission. We aim to develop graduates who are responsible contributors to society.