Taught course

Socio-Legal Studies

Institution
University of Bristol · University of Bristol Law School
Qualifications
MSc

Entry requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in Law.

OR an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent non-law degree in a related field, such as Sociology, Social Policy, Social Welfare, Public Administration, Social Administration, Demography/Population Studies, Geography, Economics, Political Science, History and Philosophy.

We will also consider your application if your subject is not listed above, if you have at least one of the following:

  • evidence of significant academic or professional experience (at least 12 months, paid) in fields including, but not limited to: government departments, NGOs, think tanks.
  • a relevant postgraduate qualification.

If this is the case, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing details of your relevant qualifications.

If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.

We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree.

We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MSc in Socio-Legal Studies blends rigorous research training with interdisciplinary insights on how law interacts with society. Emphasising empirical research and practical application, this programme prepares you to influence future legal and social policies, positioning you at the forefront of socio-legal change.

Offered jointly by the Law School and the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies (SPAIS), the programme explores contemporary legal issues from multiple perspectives. You will develop strong empirical research skills and theoretical insights, enabling critical examination and effective influence on legal and social policies.

Ideal for those interested in the dynamic relationship between law and society, this MSc is perfect for aspiring academics, PhD candidates, and professionals seeking to impact legal and social change. It provides robust research training, practical dissertation experience, and interdisciplinary perspectives, preparing you for careers in NGOs, government, or broader socio-legal fields.

Ranked third in the UK for legal research excellence (REF 2021), the University of Bristol ensures you are challenged and inspired by world-leading academics. The programme is part of the South West Doctoral Training Partnership, offering interdisciplinary pathways with researchers from Bristol, Bath, UWE, and Exeter Universities.

Information for international students

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Fees and funding

The Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences has an allocation of 1+3 (MSc and PhD) and +3 (PhD) ESRC scholarships.

Information about funding and scholarships can be found on the University of Bristol Law School funding webpages.

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Part-time study requires daytime weekday attendance.

Course contact details

Name
Enquiries Team
Email
choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk
Phone
+44 (0) 117 394 1649