Master of Social Science (Global, Urban & Social Studies)

The Master of Social Science degree develops advanced research principles and methods and mastery of a body of knowledge in the social sciences.Upon graduation with a Master of Social Science degree from RMIT University you will have developed:high level skills in research processes, the ability to analyse and synthesise knowledge related to specific disciplines, and high level communication skills.A Master of Social Science degree will provide you with a foundation for further studies into a PhD or employment in senior leadership and management positions in a variety of government, non-government and corporate environments.Individually supervised research programs are available in three key areas of the social, the urban and the global, particularly in the fields of urban planning and housing studies, sustainability, sociology and global studies, and social and public policy and social work.

Coursework Courses

Complete the following One (1) Course:

In consultation with your supervisory team, you may also elect to take either or both of the following:

AND

Thesis Courses

The remaining allocation of credit points for each semester should be made up of the following Courses:

The minimum requirements for admission to a master by research program are:

• a bachelor degree requiring at least four years of full-time study in a relevant discipline awarded with honours. The degree should include a research component comprised of a thesis, other research projects or research methodology courses that constitute at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent). The applicant must have achieved at least a credit average in the final year; or
• evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and/or experience that satisfies the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training and Development or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program.

At RMIT a grade of credit represents academic achievement of 60% or higher.

English Language Requirements

A minimum IELTS (academic module) overall score 6.5, with no band below 6.0; or equivalent. For equivalents to English entry requirements, see the English equivalents webpage.

Further information and application process

For further information on the steps you need to take to apply for a research program see How to apply – Research programs webpage.

Graduates of the Master of Social Science will have developed mastery in research in their chosen field by undertaking a substantial and rigorous research project.

Graduates of a Master of Social Science by research will have:

• a body of knowledge that includes the understanding of recent development in one or more disciplines
• advanced knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to the field of work or learning
• cognitive skills to demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on theory and its application
• cognitive, technical and creative skills to investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories and to apply established theories to different bodies of knowledge or practice
• cognitive, technical and creative skills to generate and evaluate complex ideas and concepts at an abstract level
• cognitive and technical skills to design, use and evaluate research and research methods
• communication and technical skills to present coherent and sustained argument and to disseminate research results to specialist and non-specialist audiences
• technical and communication skills to design, evaluate, implement, analyse, theorise and disseminate research that makes a contribution to knowledge

Graduates of a Master of Social Science by research will demonstrate the application of these knowledge and skills:

• with creativity and initiative to new situations and/or for further learning
• with high level personal autonomy and accountability
• to plan and execute a substantial piece of research