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Ageing at Lancaster University - UCAS

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2023 - 20242024 - 2025
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Course summary

MSc Ageing aims to allow people working in a range of settings – government, third sector, health care sites, academic institutions, social care settings, international organisations etc. – to undertake advanced study within this exciting and vibrant field. The Master's is aimed at individuals based in international settings or in the UK. This part-time programme offers a flexible way of engaging with study in this area. It is delivered via blended/distance e-learning, over two years. A large proportion of the course covers research methods giving you the skills to make an original contribution to knowledge development in the field of ageing. Programme overview Year 1 and Year 2 taught include: Ageing

  • Theoretical approaches to the social science and psychology of ageing
  • Empirical research in this area across a range of topics including health and ageing, socioeconomic issues and ageing from a global perspective
  • Innovation in ageing research
Systematic approaches to literature reviews and evidence synthesis:
  • What they are
  • How to do one
Data analysis:
  • Qualitative and quantitative data analysis
Theory and methods:
  • How to devise a research question and exploring different methods of data collection
  • Different methodological approaches
For the 60-credit dissertation module which you will carry out in your second year, you will be able to choose from a number of dissertation formats. These will include a systematic review (of either quantitative or qualitative studies) or the opportunity to carry out analysis of an existing data set. This research project will be supervised from Lancaster University, but undertaken in your own location or workplace. Supervisions will take the form of online meetings. Supervisors will be chosen based on relevant theoretical or methodological expertise within a student’s area of interest where possible. Our academic staff have expertise in:
  • Understanding the needs of family and carers and planning interventions to support them
  • Addressing the needs of older people including those with dementia and improving the provision of care in residential and nursing homes
  • Psychological outcomes in older people with long-term conditions, especially neurodegenerative diseases
  • Psychological interventions to help wellbeing, safety (e.g. falls) or cognitive function
  • Digital advances in ageing
  • Use of longitudinal datasets to examine risk factors for cognitive impairment or negative social situations in later life (e.g. loneliness)
  • Inequalities and public health impacts for older people, e.g. in minority groups
Key Facts MSc Ageing is delivered by Blending Learning. Blended learning refers to the methods of interaction between students and course tutors / supervisors on a programme. Teaching and research activities are carried out through a combination of face-to-face and online interaction. The Lancaster-based academies that occur each year give you the chance to meet your programme peers and the academic team. Online interactions use our virtual learning environment and include discussion forums, collaborative digital spaces and video conferencing. Year 1 starts with a three-day compulsory in person Induction Academy. While you are welcome to attend an academy in your second year, this is not compulsory. The first-year induction academy is an opportunity to meet and to get to know your cohort in person and to meet the academic programme team and support staff. Programme outcomes The Master's in Ageing aims to:
  • Promote advanced knowledge and a critical understanding of ageing research, concepts and debates
  • Foster critical approaches to evidence review and knowledge management
  • Develop advanced skills in awareness of research designs, data analysis, presentation and dissemination
  • Improve scholarship in presenting written and oral arguments
  • Enhance leadership skills and effectiveness

Assessment method

Assessment is by a combination of written assignments and independent analysis.

Entry requirements

2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in an appropriate subject, such as health/social care or related fields. Qualifications and/or experience considered by the University to be of an equivalent standard will also be considered. We may also consider non-standard applicants, please contact us for information. We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously. We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 6.0 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Additional fee information

For information about fees and funding please visit our website: www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding.
Ageing at Lancaster University - UCAS