Applied Social Sciences: Globalisation and Crime MSc

Course code L3GC

What is special about this course?

Are you interested in exploring and understanding the world around you, particularly in relation to globalisation and crime, via the theory and application of the social sciences?

The MSc Applied Social Sciences: Globalisation and Crime is a unique, multi-disciplinary programme that allows you to explore these critical issues using the disciplines of psychology, sociology, criminology, and politics, to gain in-depth understanding of these complex situations and employ your knowledge in the real world.

You will apply theory from the social sciences in order to reflect upon and comprehend these phenomena, ultimately using your understanding to enhance society, particularly in relation to globalisation and crime. You will undertake seven modules, including: forensic and criminal psychology; globalisation, work and society; world of terror; transnational crime; research methods and techniques; applied research project; and a dissertation. You will have the opportunity to complete a project based on a work placement or relevant site/organisation relating to these topics, and complete a substantial piece of individual research.

Special features

  • The course is delivered full-time or part-time and is fully online, so you can fit your study around your personal and professional commitments from anywhere in the world.
  • Unique multi-disciplinary programme allows you to explore topics at master’s level using different academic disciplines and gain a wider perspective to take forward in the research modules.
  • Opportunity to complete your own research in the applied research project and dissertation modules; this may include a work placement or contact with relevant organisations, and the chance to apply theory in the real world.
  • Experienced and research-active team of lecturers with varied interests and contacts.
  • A small, supportive campus, providing access to a variety of resources and support.
  • Further your interests in the social sciences and gain advanced knowledge and valuable research experience to pave the way to a rewarding career.

Entry requirements

  • 2:2 honours degree or above, preferably in a social sciences or humanities subject
  • Non-native English speakers require IELTS score 6.5 (with no element below 6.0) or equivalent.
  • You must have regular and reliable access to the internet and a computer for any online degree at UHI in order to take advantage of our full range of online learning services, which include support from your tutors and fellow UHI students as well as access to UHI’s Virtual Learning Environment and vast online learning library. Click here for more information on the minimum requirements. 
  • Applicants with other qualifications or experience will be considered on an individual basis.
  • This is a Category 2 PVG course: PVG Scheme membership is required for specific optional modules/unit(s), where there is guaranteed contact with vulnerable groups in optional module/unit(s), but an alternative pathway exists to achieve target qualification. For further information visit our PVG scheme webpage 

My favourite aspects of this course are using my professional and practical knowledge in an academic forum and the sharing of professional insights from students from different professional backgrounds. 

I have attended and delivered inputs and presentations to various student groups at UHI Inverness. The best thing about studying at UHI is the ability to interact with students throughout country. My advice if you are considering postgraduate study would just be to go for it! 

Angie studied the Applied Science: Globalization and Crime at UHI Perth. 

Apply for Applied Social Sciences: Globalisation and Crime MSc

I want to start in Aug/Sep 2025 or Jan/Feb 2026

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at the University of the Highlands and Islands. We operate a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of gender, age, disability, ethnicity and socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.