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 2027 ). 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 (Non-Governmental Organisations) .
This stream focuses on the role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in shaping social policies.
A core course covers topics such as the history, theory and roles of NGOs in policy, the shifting policy contexts in which NGOs operate, and the changing dynamics between NGOs, governments, donors and the private sector.
You’ll also choose optional courses from topics such as race, education and migration – drawing on expertise from across LSE.
Finally, you’ll complete a dissertation on an NGO-related topic (agreed with your supervisor).
This stream is ideally suited if you’re looking to work in or with NGOs to address pressing social issues and drive change
Extensive background reading is not essential but it's advisable for you to do some reading before commencing the programme. The following is a list of reading that will be useful for the compulsory courses:
Discover more about our students and 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 ( Complete University Guide 2027 ). 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.
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.
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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 doesn't 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.