MSc Global Ageing and Policy (Distance Learning)

Program Overview

---

Global Ageing and Policy (Distance Learning) (MSc)

About this course

We are proud to be the only department dedicated to Gerontology in the UK. We offer distinctive face-to-face and distance learning programmes in gerontology, global ageing and social policy.

Discover the challenges associated with ageing, and assessing academic and policy evidence on our MSc Global Ageing and Policy course. This distance learning master's degree will teach you how to carry out policy evaluation to improve older people's wellbeing, with a focus on ageing societies.

This course is centred around gerontology - the study of ageing at the individual and societal levels. On this UK master’s degree you’ll study ageing over a lifetime, focusing on the challenges associated with ageing in specific regions of the world, including:

• China
• South-east Asia and South Asia
• sub-Saharan Africa

You’ll examine the changes humans undergo as they age, as well as the impact of growing proportions of older people on social institutions, labour markets, welfare systems and families. The study of ageing also investigates the relationships between generations and the connections between individuals’ experiences over their lifetimes.

This postgraduate programme draws on a range of disciplines including:

• social policy
• demography
• sociology
• biology
• health sciences
• psychology
• economics

Flexible study

If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:

• a part-time distance learning master's - study the same course content over 2 years and 6 months, or 3 years and 6 months

If you’re not ready to take on a full course, as part of continuing professional development (CPD) you can choose to study a module on its own. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the subject and you can build up to higher level study. Choose campus based study or distance learning.

Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Course lead

Your course leader is Rosalind Willis, Associate Professor in Gerontology at the University of Southampton. Her research interests are on ethnic diversity and ageing, dementia, and care. Read Dr Willis’s profile to find out more about her research interests and publications.

Entry requirements

You’ll need a 2:1 Our preferred subjects are: sociology, demography, psychology, social work, nursing, medicine, allied health sciences, anthropology, marketing, economics, business studies, engineering.

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

• overall score: 6.5
• reading: 6.0
• writing: 6.0
• speaking: 6.0
• listening: 6.0

If you do not meet the English language requirements through a test or qualification, you may be able to meet them by completing one of our pre-sessional English programmes before your course starts.

Pre-masters

If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus. Learn more about the programmes available.

Recognition of professional experience

If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.

Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.

Course structure

Whether you choose to study full-time part-time, you’ll need to study 8 modules and a dissertation. You'll have 4 compulsory modules and you'll choose 4 optional modules.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

Year 1 modules

You must study the following modules:

Dissertation (DL)

This module supports the requirement for students to carry out independent research on a topic of their choice within the field of Gerontology.

Global Perspectives in Gerontology (DL)

This module introduces you to the study of Gerontology as a global and an interdisciplinary subject. You will be familiarised with the main theoretical perspectives and approaches to the study of ageing and the life course. You will examine the causes and consequences of population ageing and the impact of globalisation on ageing societies.

Policy Evaluation for Ageing Societies (DL)

This module will introduce you to the study of policy and programme evaluation in ageing societies. You will be introduced to the theories surrounding the process of evaluating policies and programmes. You will examine the different methodological approaches to policy evaluation and the challenges of evaluating policies and programmes in ageing societies.

Qualitative Research Methods 1 (DL)

The module is aimed at enabling you to understand the principles of qualitative methods and analysis, and equipping you to apply qualitative research methods in practice. The module assumes no previous knowledge of either NVivo or qualitative analysis so it is suitable for those who are new to qualitative research.

Qualitative Research Methods 2 (DL)

This module provides advanced training in the use of qualitative research methods in the Social Sciences, and particularly in the field of Gerontology. It builds on the introductory module Qualitative Methods 1. Indicative topics include ethnographic methods, narrative analysis, and discourse analysis.

You must also choose from the following modules:

Ageing in Africa: Research and Policy (DL)

This module provides a critical understanding of the dynamics of ageing in Africa, drawing on empirical evidence. You will evaluate the policy implications of the context of ageing in Africa and critically examine the social, health and economic policies in place to address the challenges of ageing in Africa.

Ageing in China, South Asia and Southeast Asia (DL)

This module introduces the study of ageing at the individual and societal level in China, South Asia and Southeast Asia. The module will provide an overview of demographic transitions, social change and development in China, South Asia and Southeast Asia, and the impact of these changes on ageing societies.

Ageing, Health & Well-Being (DL)

This module aims to provide you with foundation of knowledge in the areas of health and well-being in later life and the impact of inequalities. You will be introduced to key issues and literature concerning the nature of ageing, quality of life, and well-being in later life.

Demographic Change, Ageing & Globalisation (DL)

This module provides you with a foundation of knowledge on demographic change and population ageing in a cross-cultural, global perspective. The module views ageing through an international development lens, focusing on less economically developed countries.

Mental Health and Ageing (DL)

The module will provide a critical assessment of evidence relevant to mental health and ageing, with a concentration on dementia, one of the most common and serious disorders in later life. The module will take an international perspective, providing an understanding of the global impact of dementia.

Poverty and Social Protection Around The World (DL)

The module involves audio-lectures, which include trigger questions, and independent study. Students are expected to carry out some reading in advance of listening to each session, in order to make the most of the sessions.

Quantitative Research Methods 1 (DL)

This module introduces you to quantitative research methods within the social sciences. The module is aimed at providing a firm understanding of the fundamental principles of quantitative analysis up to bivariate analysis, and a good foundation of knowledge of statistical software packages.

Quantitative Research Methods 2 (DL)

This module offers a more advanced training in quantitative research methods within the social sciences. The module is aimed at providing a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles of quantitative analysis, and a solid foundation of knowledge of statistical software packages.

Researching Ageing Societies (DL)

Students will gain an understanding of the individual, social, economic and political implications of population ageing by examining substantive and research methods issues pertinent to ageing and older people, such as end-of-life care or service provision.

Learning and assessment

You’ll develop your skills in written and oral presentation through a variety of interactive online resources and software programmes.

All programme modules have their own page through online software called Blackboard. From here, you'll be able to access materials including:

• lecture slides and recordings
• coursework details
• references
• module updates
• comprehensive support and guidance on how to use online resources

You’ll have other online resources, too, including:

• library resources
• a range of software packages and computing support
• a university email account

Assessment

We’ll assess you through:

• coursework, reports and essays
• a dissertation
• essays
• group essays
• individual and group projects
• written exams

Dissertation

Past students’ dissertation topics include:

• The impact of the challenges caused by parenting orphans and vulnerable children to the health and economy of the older people in sub-Saharan Africa
• Quality of care provided to people living with dementia by health care workers: A case study of a psychiatric hospital
• A comparison of older persons social pensions schemes in sub-Saharan Africa: Impact and challenges.
• Challenges faced while caring for older person with dementia in residential care in Nairobi, Kenya: A caregivers’ perspective

Careers and employability

This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business.

The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include:

• Research
• Critical thinking
• Self-management
• Confidence
• Communication
• Creativity
• Adaptability
• Problem solving

The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.

Career pathways

Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:

• Healthcare
• Social Care
• Public Health
• Education
• Government services
• Leisure
• tourism

Careers directly related to this course:

• Gerontologist
• Academic lecturer
• Academic researcher
• Aging program coordinator
• Public policy adviser
• Health educator

Wider career opportunities:

• Health educator
• Grief counsellor
• Director of social services
• Dietician
• Audiologist
• Social worker
• Occupational therapist
• Geriatric psychiatrist
• Social worker

Fees, costs and funding

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £9,250.
• EU and international students pay £25,400.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

Find out how to pay your tuition fees.

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

• accommodation costs
• living costs
• budgeting advice
• fees, charges and expenses regulations

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton, you could be eligible for a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.

Southampton Economic, Social and Political Sciences Postgraduate International Scholarship

A scholarship of £3,000 is available to international students studying for a postgraduate master’s in Economic, Social and Political Sciences.

Find out more about the Southampton Economic, Social and Political Sciences International Scholarship, including eligibility and conditions.

Southampton Ageing and Gerontology Talent Scholarship

Two competitive scholarships of £5,000 each are available for UK and international students starting one of the following programs in 2025: MSc Gerontology, MSc Gerontology (Distance Learning), and MSc Global Ageing Policy (Distance Learning).

Find out more about the Southampton Ageing and Gerontology Talent Scholarship, including eligibility criteria and application details.

Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships

Ten scholarships covering tuition fees are available for students from certain developing Commonwealth countries studying for a master’s degree online.

Find out more about the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships, including eligibility, deadlines and how to apply.

Other postgraduate funding options

A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

1. Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
2. Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. .
3. Search for the course you want to apply for.
4. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
5. Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions, check terms and conditions).
6. Submit your application.

For further details of our admission process, read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.

Application deadlines

UK students

The deadline to apply for this course is Friday 30 August 2024 - midday UK time.

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

International students

The deadline to apply for this course is Friday 30 August 2024 - midday UK time.

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

Application assessment fee

We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.

This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.

If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.

You’ll need to include information about:

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You’ll need to submit a reference, this can be a professional or academic reference.

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application.

Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Program Outline

---

Careers:

Studying Ageing and Gerontology can benefit your career. It gives you a valuable perspective that can be useful in many different jobs. No matter what field you're in, knowing about ageing and gerontology can make your work more meaningful. It can lead to a wide range of job opportunities in:

• government agencies
• non-profits and international organisations
• academic institutions
• healthcare and social care settings