University of Glasgow: School of Social and Political Sciences

The University of Glasgow’s School of Social & Political Sciences  links core social science disciplines to deliver high-quality teaching and cutting-edge research. We offer a wide variety of programmes for those interested in the development and impact of economies and societies globally.

Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is the fourth oldest university in the English-speaking world. The University has a history of changing the world and the School of Social & Political Sciences is committed to nurturing the people who make it happen.

School of Social & Political Sciences rankings and accolades

• 5^th in the UK (International Relations): Guardian University Guide 2026
• 2^nd in the UK (Social Policy): Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
• 4^th in the UK (Sociology): Complete University Guide 2025
• Top 20 in the UK (Politics): Complete University Guide 2026
• Subject top 100: QS World University Rankings 2025

Postgraduate taught degrees

We offer postgraduate degrees  which provide knowledge, skills and training relevant to a broad range of careers in the public and private sectors including government and non-government organisations, media, business, academia and social research.

Politics & International Relations:

• Global Development, MSc
• Global Economy, MSc
• Global Security, MSc
• Human Rights & International Politics, MSc
• International Relations, MSc
• Political Communication, MSc
• Russian, East European & Eurasian Studies, MSc
• Public Policy, MSc

Sociology & Cultural Studies:

• Criminology & Criminal Justice, MSc
• Digital Society, MSc
• Media, Communications & International Journalism, MSc
• Media, Culture & Society, MSc
• Sociology, MSc

Urban Studies & Social Policy:

• City Planning, MSc
• City Planning & Real Estate Development, MSc
• Global Health Policy & Society, MSc
• Public Policy, MSc
• Public Policy & Management, MSc
• Real Estate, MSc
• Social Science Research Methods, MSc
• Urban Analytics, MSc
• Urban Studies, PgCert
• Urban Transport, MSc

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

Our two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters allow you to gain an international student experience by studying with the University of Glasgow and its consortium partners across Europe and further afield.

• Global Markets, Local Creativities, IntM
• Security, Intelligence & Strategic Studies, IntM

Postgraduate research opportunities

Our staff have expertise in a range of innovative methodological and theoretical approaches and engage extensively with public and private sector partners in research dissemination and knowledge exchange to advance understanding of social sciences. This provides an excellent environment for research in each of our research subject areas.

• Political & International Studies
• Sociological & Cultural Studies
• Urban Studies & Public Policy

Student Experience

Hear all about student experience at the University of Glasgow’s School of Social & Political Sciences from those who know us best, our students!

Sustainable Development Goals

The University of Glasgow is committed to contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our postgraduate programmes will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to make a meaningful impact on our global society. As part of our postgraduate community, you'll have the opportunity to delve into the most pressing global challenges facing humanity and the natural world.

For more information

ssps-pgtstudent-recruitment@glasgow.ac.uk 
glasgow.ac.uk/socialpolitical