Direct answer
The MSc Social Research at Goldsmiths, University of London requires an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard in a relevant subject. For 2026/27 entry, international applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS score of 6.5 with 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0. The official page does not publish a specific grade equivalency for a Chinese Bachelor’s degree, so you must verify your qualification through Goldsmiths’ international qualifications page.
Programme overview
The MSc Social Research is an advanced degree in social scientific methodology and is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as a research training degree. The programme is based in the Centre for Urban and Community Research, the Methods Lab, and the Sociology department, which was rated top 20 in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
You will undertake rigorous training in both qualitative and quantitative research designs and techniques. Key research techniques covered include conducting interviews, ethnographic research, discourse analysis, visual sociology, computer-assisted qualitative data analysis, multiple regression analysis, multi-level modelling, longitudinal modelling, structural equation modelling, and latent class analysis.
The programme runs for one year full-time or two years part-time. International students cannot study part-time under a student visa; if you hold another visa type, you should contact the Admissions Team for eligibility guidance.
Entry requirements
Academic qualifications
You should have, or expect to be awarded, an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard in a relevant or related subject. If you are not a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, you might still be considered if you have relevant experience and can demonstrate the ability to work at postgraduate level.
The official page states that Goldsmiths accepts a wide range of international qualifications and directs applicants to the qualifications accepted from around the world page. No specific Chinese Bachelor’s grade equivalency is published on this programme page. You should consult that international qualifications page to understand how your Chinese degree will be assessed.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, you need an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0. Equivalent English language qualifications are also accepted. Goldsmiths offers courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate study if you need English language support.
Application documents
You apply directly to Goldsmiths using the online application system. To complete your application, you need:
- Details of your academic qualifications
- The email address of your referee, or a copy of your academic reference
- Copies of your educational transcripts or certificates
- A personal statement
You can save your progress and return to your application at any time.
When to apply
Applications open in October for students wanting to start the following September. Goldsmiths encourages you to complete your application as early as possible, even if you have not finished your current programme. It is common to receive a conditional offer based on achieving a particular qualification. Late applications are only considered if spaces remain available. If you are applying for funding, you may face an earlier deadline.
Selection process
As part of the admissions process, you may be offered an informal advisory meeting with the Programme Convenor. This is not a guaranteed step for every applicant but is a possibility mentioned on the official page.
Programme structure
You complete four compulsory modules and one optional module, plus a dissertation:
- Quantitative Research Methods (30 credits)
- Advanced Quantitative Research Methods (30 credits)
- Methodology Now (30 credits)
- Dissertation (60 credits)
- Optional modules (30 credits) chosen from a list provided annually
Assessment consists of coursework, extended essays, reports, presentations, practice-based projects or essays/logs, group projects, and reflective essays.
Fees for 2026/27
Annual tuition fees for students starting in the 2026/27 academic year are:
- Home full-time: £11,800
- Home part-time: £5,900
- International full-time: £23,000
Additional costs may include stationery, photocopying, field trips, or specialist materials. You should check the programme specification and the study costs page for full details.
What the official page does not confirm
The programme page does not publish a specific grade equivalency for Chinese undergraduate degrees. It refers you to the general international qualifications page. The exact international tuition fee is confirmed as £23,000 for full-time study. No China-specific percentage or GPA conversion is provided on this page, so you must check your qualification directly with the university’s international qualifications resource.
FAQ
What is the minimum IELTS score for the MSc Social Research?
You need an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with 6.5 in writing and no individual element lower than 6.0. Equivalent English language qualifications are also accepted.
Can I apply if my undergraduate degree is not in a related subject?
You might be considered if you are not a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, provided you have relevant experience and can show the ability to work at postgraduate level.
Can international students study part-time?
It is not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you hold another visa type, you should contact the Admissions Team for more information.
When should I submit my application?
Applications open in October for September entry. Goldsmiths encourages you to apply as early as possible, even if you have not yet completed your current programme. Late applications are only considered if spaces are available.
What documents do I need to apply?
You need details of your academic qualifications, an email address for your referee or a copy of your academic reference, copies of your educational transcripts or certificates, and a personal statement.
Official sources
- MSc Social Research programme page
- International qualifications accepted by Goldsmiths
- Equivalent English language qualifications
- Guide to applying for a postgraduate degree at Goldsmiths
For further reading on international study preparation, you may find these resources useful: understanding health cover arrangements for students in Australia, exploring agency recommendations for University of Queensland applications, reviewing trusted study-abroad agency brands in Australia, and preparing for standardised tests such as the MCAT.