Substance Use

Entry requirements

A minimum of a second class honours degree or equivalent. Applicants without these formal qualifications but with significant appropriate/relevant work/life experience are encouraged to apply.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The number of people in treatment for substance use in the UK is on the rise, with 140,599 cases recorded in 2019/20 (gov.uk). There's a distinct and growing need for professionals in this field who can contribute to research and support.

Our MSc Substance Use is ideal for professionals looking to develop their career in the field of substance use, as well as individuals looking to build on their undergraduate studies. The course syllabus explores how substance use affects people who use substances, family members, communities and contemporary societies. In recognition of both the complexity of the needs of people who use substances but also the integration of the practice field in substance use, the course offers a unique interdisciplinary focus through its suite of optional modules. You’ll have the opportunity to expand your knowledge on substance use, related policies and interventions, at local, national (Scotland and UK) and international levels within a context of partnership working.

With elective modules in specialist subjects such as housing, public health or rehabilitation, you’ll develop a range of skills which will significantly enhance your confidence and employability in the field of substance use.

Information for international students

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:

• IELTS Indicator 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-skill
• Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) 176 overall with a minimum of 169 in each sub-skill
• Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) 180 overall with a minimum of 169 in each sub-skill
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) 62 overall with 60 in each sub-skill
• IBT TOEFL 80 overall with 18 in reading, 23 in writing, 19 in listening and 21 in speaking
• IBT TOEFL Special Home Edition Test 80 overall with 18 in reading, 23 in writing, 19 in listening and 21 in speaking
• Trinity ISE II Pass overall and Merit in all sub-skills, ISE III Pass overall and in all sub-skills, ISE IV Pass overall and in all sub-skills
• Aptis (4 skills) CEFR B2 overall and B2 in all sub-skills
• Duolingo 105 overall with a minimum of 95 in each sub-skill
• LanguageCert International ESOL B2 Communicator - High Pass with a minimum of 152/200 overall and 33 in each sub-skill

If you are from India, Bangladesh, Ghana or Nigeria please also check your country/region specific page for any additional, or changes to, English language requirements.

For more information on ways that you can meet our English language requirements, including options to waive the requirement, please read our information on English language requirements.