Master of Studies in Social Innovation

The Master of Studies (MSt) in Social Innovation is a two-year, part-time programme includes online delivery and four week-long residentials in Cambridge. 

Social innovation is becoming central to the ambitions of the corporate and public sectors, as well as the social sector and NGOs. Therefore, the MSt programme examines both social innovation within the context of these sectors, and the urgent need for collaboration to tackle and develop novel solutions to the deep-rooted ‘wicked problems’ the globe faces. 

The programme addresses the social, cultural, economic, and environmental challenges and opportunities of social innovation by offering its students an open environment for critical dialogue and engagement with workshops, case studies, subject experts, and practitioners. This educational space allows for the discussion of key concepts, theories, frameworks, and emerging ideas for creating, developing, and enabling social innovation in the UK and internationally; and, forms a key strategy to engage with individuals and organisations working specifically to develop socially innovative solutions in both rich and poor countries.

In recognition of the fact that social innovation occurs across all sectors, the MSt is aimed at middle and senior level leaders in NGOs, public bodies and the private sector. 

You'll need

Professional experience

Applicants should have at least two years’ work experience (excluding vacation employment and internships during the course of their undergraduate degree).Undergraduate achievementAt least a 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent standard from an overseas institution.English proficiencyIf you are not a national from a List A country or you have not completed a three years course of continuous study in a List A country that finished no later than two years before commencement of your programme at Cambridge, you may be asked to take an IELTS, TOEFL, CAE or CPE test to demonstrate your language ability.

It is not required that you take a language test before applying. If you receive a conditional offer, we will inform you of whether you are required to take a test.

Below shows acceptable tests and required scores.

• IELTS minimum overall score of 7.5, with not less than 7.0 in each element
• TOEFL internet-based test (iBT) minimum overall score of 110, with not less than 25 in each element
• CAE minimum score of Grade A or B (with at least 193)
• CPE score of Grade A, B or C (with at least 200)Skills and competenciesAmbition and a willingness to work hard, as well as a demonstrable enthusiasm and/or aptitude for social innovation. Evidence of good interpersonal, communication and team-working skills, in addition to numeracy, problem-solving and reasoning skills.

All applicants will need to give the details of two referees who can provide references written in English. Ideally, we would like to see one academic reference and one professional reference.Internet accessYou will require access to the internet and reliable hardware and software.