At the Centre for Policy Research (CPR), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), the Master of Social Sciences in Anthropology and Sociology programme is designed for emerging researchers, policy analysts, and social sector professionals. This programme bridges advanced sociological theory with practical empirical tools, empowering you to address pressing social challenges and shape sustainable community development.

We welcome Master’s research proposals aligned with our eight core thrusts:

1. Poverty Studies & Micro Credit
   Analyzing economic vulnerabilities, financial inclusion, and sustainable livelihoods.
   
   
2. Ethnicity & Identity
   Unpacking the nuances of social identity, nation-building, and inter-group dynamics.
   
   
3. Development Sociology
   Investigating structural transformations, urbanization, and social change in developing contexts.
   
   
4. Critical Policy Research
   Deconstructing social policies to evaluate their real-world outcomes, equity, and governance.
   
   
5. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & Philanthropy
   Exploring the role of ethical business, social enterprise, and giving in community development.
   
   
6. Multireligions & Multicultural Studies
   Fostering pluralism, intercultural dialogue, and social cohesion in diverse societies.
   
   
7. Social Anthropology
   Examining culture, lived experiences, kinship, and everyday practices in local and global contexts.
   
   
8. Migration Studies
   Understanding mobility, border dynamics, diaspora communities, and refugee experiences.

Applicants should possess the following:

A) Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent

1. CGPA of at least 2.75/4.00; or 

2. CGPA between 2.50 - 2.74/4.00 with the following additional conditions: or
   • Research experience for at least one (1) year; or
   • Professional experience in related field for at least one (1) year; or
   • One (1) academic publication in the relevant field; or
   • Grade B for major/elective courses; or
   • Grade B+ for final year project 

3. CGPA between 2.00 - 2.49/4.00 (honours degree) with the following additional conditions:
   • Research experience for at least five (5) years; or
   • Professional experience in related field for at least five (5) years; AND
   • One (1) academic publication in the relevant field; or
   • Grade B for major/elective courses; or
   • Grade B+ for final year project

Any Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science/Computing/Information Technology awarded by local private institutions of higher learning, including those awarded under any collaborative/franchising schemes with local or foreign partners must be accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).

(Applicable for International Applicants Only)

• A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
• A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or
• A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or
• A minimum score of 47 for PTE; or
• A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English (CAE/CPE); or
• A minimum score of 154 for Linguaskill Online; or
• A minimum of Band 3.5 for MUET

Exemption is given to candidate if:

• English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or
• Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

**Candidates will be interviewed by the Selection Panels.

• Full-time: Min 2 semesters / Max 6 semesters
• Part-time: Min 4 semesters / Max 12 semesters

* NOT inclusive 6% Sales and Service Tax (SST) imposed by Government of Malaysia

** Fees are subject to change