Comparative European Social Studies (MACESS) – (M.A.)

Contents

The programme consists of 4 core modules, 2 optional modules (selected from a group of 4) and a final dissertation. The intensive programme takes 12 full months and totals 90 ECTS. Below, you can find more information about the core modules.

• Introduction to European Institutions and Policy (core module, 10 ECTS)

This module is designed to introduce the institutions and policies of the European Union and the Council of Europe. It provides insight into the rationale of co-operation, integration and with policymaking processes. The approach places the development of ‘social Europe’ within its appropriate political and policy context. The study trips to Brussels and Strasbourg are central to the learning experience.

• Comparative Social Research (core module, 10 ECTS)

What is comparative social research and what is it good for? These are the seemingly straightforward yet tricky questions the module tackles through dynamic classroom discussions, specialist guest lecturers and targeted readings. International CRS researchers will provide students with insight in how their research was conducted during the lectures.

• Social Professional Practice (core module, 10 ECTS)

The module introduces students to the development of methods in social professional practice all over Europe, including an analysis of the theoretical background of the methods. It also examines the possibilities for cross-European implementation. Guest lecturers from all over Europe travel to Maastricht to inform and critically discuss social practice in their respective countries by drawing on their experience as academics, social practitioners or policy makers.

• Comparative Social Policy (core module, 10 ECTS)

This module includes a comprehensive comparison of differences in social policy in Europe. By means of exploring the leading theories, students learn how these differences are grouped and how the separate models adapt to change. During the module (guest)lecturers from several European countries provide the students with a better understanding of social policy in their respective countries.

• Leadership and Management of Social Organisations in Europe (optional module, 10 ECTS)

This module will examine organisational theory, leadership and management in relation to social welfare provision and programmes in a European context. Students are introduced to management and leadership theory and policy frameworks, to develop a formal approach to their management and leadership role in an European context.

• Education and supervision of social professionals in Europe (optional module, 10 ECTS)

The aim of this module is to examine different approaches to education and supervision relevant to the social professions in a European context

• Evaluation in a European Context (optional module, 10 ECTS)

This module aims to provide students with an opportunity to consider the European and comparative social welfare and care contexts within which evaluation is commissioned, carried out and intends to affect. It introduces both the theoretical and practical aspects of evaluation which underpin the increasing emphasis in all sectors on effective and efficient service provision.

• Ethics, Decision-making and Risk Management in Contemporary Social Work Practice (optional module, 10 ECTS)

The purpose of this module is to introduce students to contemporary ideas and strategies within Europe around the role of the social work practitioner from both a local and global perspective. Looking specifically at the challenges for the practitioner, the module will examine personal and professional issues around ethical decision-making and risk management, factors which have a significant impact upon how social work is shaped, perceived and evaluated.

• Dissertation (30 ECTS)

This is the ultimate treat in the MACESS programme: it is a student’s very own contribution to the knowledge-base in a preferred field of study. Although it is the final piece of work submitted in MACESS (bringing together the academic and professional skills gained throughout the programme) it is certainly, the beginning of many new and exciting opportunities, too!

The Dissertation is an extended, dynamic investigation into a social science topic of the student’ choice (15,000 – 20,000 words in English). Whether a critical comparative analysis of the literature, a comparative empirical research study or a combination of both, students are supported in their quest to compare an issue, a field or policy between two countries or even transcend levels of comparison to explore geographical regions, (international) institutions or global issues.

Accreditation

Upon succesful completion of the programme, an MA degree is awarded by london Metropolitan University, which is accredited within the UK system of Higher Education.