Social Policy
The Master of Science in Social Policy is an intensive 11-month program designed to explore how governments, institutions, and communities respond to social challenges through policy intervention. The program equips students with a critical understanding of social justice, welfare systems, inequality, and public service delivery, with a strong focus on empirical analysis and evidence-based policymaking. Through interdisciplinary coursework that blends sociology, economics, and political science, students gain the analytical tools to examine how social policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated in diverse contexts.
Throughout the program, students engage with key social issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, employment, and housing, while learning to assess policy effectiveness and equity. Faculty with real-world policy experience provide guidance in both theoretical frameworks and applied research. The program also integrates training in qualitative and quantitative methods, policy writing, and impact evaluation, allowing graduates to formulate strategies that improve well-being and social equity across populations.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Social Policy
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 11 months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Social Policy
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Social Policy
• Theories of Social Policy and Welfare
• Social Policy Analysis and Evaluation
• Research Methods for Policy Design
• Social Inequality and Public Services
Semester 2 – Advanced Policy Applications
• Poverty, Work, and Welfare Reform
• Health, Housing, and Education Policy
• Data and Decision-Making in Social Policy
• Capstone Project or Policy Research Report
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Social Policy program are well-prepared for roles in government agencies, NGOs, think tanks, international organizations, advocacy groups, and research institutions. Many become policy analysts, research associates, program evaluators, public affairs consultants, or social policy advisors, contributing to the design and evaluation of programs that impact vulnerable communities. The strong emphasis on research, critical thinking, and real-world policy challenges ensures that graduates are capable of shaping innovative and effective solutions to complex social problems. With their ability to translate research into actionable policy, they often serve as key contributors in the creation of equitable and sustainable social systems at local, national, or global levels.
Why Choose This Program
This program stands out for its rapid, focused training in evidence-based policy development and its commitment to addressing real-world social challenges. Its 11-month structure appeals to driven individuals seeking to quickly build policy expertise and enter impactful roles. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in both theory and application, ensuring students can analyze, design, and evaluate policy in complex environments. Led by faculty who have worked across government, academia, and nonprofit sectors, the program offers practical insight into how social change happens through policy. Students benefit from a collaborative learning environment, exposure to global policy debates, and personalized mentorship that prepares them to lead efforts in shaping fairer, more inclusive societies.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
