Professor Guy Abel
Programme Director
Professor, Department of Sociology

Message from Programme Director

The Master of Social Sciences programme in the field of Population and Policy Analysis provides a pioneering approach to understanding current population issues, such as ageing societies, low birth rates, and migration, and how policies can be enacted to manage and mitigate some of society's greatest future challenges. We provide training on the methods, research design, and policy strategies required to identify the impacts of changes in population size and structure. Our programme pools demographic and policy expertise across the Faculty of Social Science to provide the research and analytical skills to address far-reaching population issues and real-world problems.

Our programme is well-suited for individuals seeking to:
  • Our programme is well-suited for individuals seeking to: develop research and technical skills to advance professional opportunities in NGOs, government agencies, and businesses, where population challenges are a key to future planning.
  • gain advanced instruction in population-related areas in preparation for pursuing doctoral studies
In this programme, we aim to equip you with:
  • the theory, skills, and techniques needed to analyse population structures and components of change, including fertility, mortality, and migration.
  • critically analyse population policies, assess their effectiveness, and propose evidence-based policy recommendations.
  • advanced quantitative research skills, including techniques to analyse population compositions and changes, policy implementation and predict future long-run patterns.
  • effectively communicate population-related concepts and research findings to a range of audiences through written reports, presentations, and other forms of communication.

Uniqueness of Population and Policy Analysis

An integrated approach to population studies is necessary to understand the interconnected aspects of demographic dynamics and their far-reaching societal implications.

Combining population studies with policy analysis empowers decision-makers to formulate targeted, data-driven policies that tackle demographic challenges and optimise outcomes.

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Programme Aims

Demographic Understanding

Understand demographic trends and impacts for effective data analysis and interpretation.

Policy Analysis

Critically analyse population policies, assess effectiveness, and propose evidence-based recommendations.

Technical Skills

Develop expertise in demographic and statistical methods for rigorous data analysis and policy application.

Research Skills

Conduct demographic research, including design, implementation, data analysis, and presentation.