Psychosocial Studies
MA
Birkbeck, University of London

Key Course Facts
Course Description
Psychosocial studies holds that conventional distinctions found in many areas of sociology and psychology between the 'psychological' and the 'social' are untenable and that our 'inner' and 'outer' worlds are empirically and theoretically inseparable.
Our MA Psychosocial Studies explores multidisciplinary discussions on the connections between our precarious and increasingly interrelated collective histories and our ordinary, intimate, personal and psychic life.
The course is designed for graduates from a wide range of backgrounds who are looking to develop an in-depth understanding of the relationship between the individual and social and political formations.
Highlights
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In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF), Sociology at Birkbeck was ranked 13th in the UK.
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The Department of Psychosocial Studies has a formal link with the University of São Paulo, Brazil. This link enables students on the course to undertake an option module at the university as part of their programme of study at Birkbeck.
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Birkbeck has three research institutes of relevance to students on this degree: Birkbeck Institute for Social Research, Birkbeck Institute for the Humanities and Birkbeck Gender and Sexuality (BiGS). Each organises regular talks and masterclasses, which our students can attend.
Entry Requirements / Admissions
Requirements for international students / English requirements
IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)
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- 6.5
- Mphil / PhD
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Psychosocial Studies, MA, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.
At least a second-class honours degree (2:2), or its equivalent, in a discipline relevant to psychosocial studies, which includes most humanities and social science disciplines (such as psychology, sociology, politics, history, cultural studies). In exceptional circumstances, your application will be considered if you have substantial professional experience (for example, teaching, social work, counselling and psychotherapy, mediation, development work, arts and cultural industries) without an undergraduate degree, and can demonstrate through interview and a written assignment that you have the required academic abilities to complete a master's-level course. Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.
Costs
Tuition Fees Psychosocial Studies MA
England UK | £4515 | year 1 |
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Northern Ireland | £4515 | year 1 |
Scotland | £4515 | year 1 |
Wales | £4515 | year 1 |
International | £8190 | year 1 |
Additional fee information
Average student cost of living in London
Rent | £518 |
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) | £50 |
Supermarket shopping | £81 |
Clothing | £35 |
Eating out | £33 |
Alcohol | £27 |
Takeaways / food deliveries | £30 |
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) | £24 |
Holidays and weekend trips | £78 |
Transport within city | £17 |
Self-care / sports | £20 |
Stationary / books | £13 |
Mobile phone / internet | £13 |
Cable TV / streaming | £7 |
Insurance | £51 |
Other | £95 |
Average student cost of living | £1092 |
London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.
University Rankings
Positions of Birkbeck, University of London in top UK and global rankings.
See all 17 university rankings of Birkbeck, University of London
About Birkbeck, University of London
Birkbeck, University of London (BBK) was established in 1823, and takes a different stance towards admissions than many other universities. Applicants are encouraged by BKK to apply even if they don’t possess the traditional qualifications normally required, as applications here are also considered based on an assessment of your knowledge on the subject, and any work experience you might have. Being located in the very centre of London, students will have all the advantages of the city’s public transport connections, as well as the chance to live in such a diverse and vibrant city with all that it offers.
List of 351 Bachelor and Master Courses from Birkbeck, University of London - Course Catalogue
Student composition of Birkbeck, University of London
- undergraduates:
- 4800
- postgraduates:
- 2810
- Total:
- 7610
Where is this programme taught


