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Centre for Policy Research (CPR)  |  Main Campus  |   USM Apex W 

Master's Programme

Master of Science

  • Master of Science in Marine Sciences

    Master of Science in Marine Sciences

    Program Synopsis

    The Doctor of Philosophy in Marine Sciences at the Centre for Policy Research (CPR) develops researchers capable of generating original scientific knowledge that advances marine science and informs marine policy, governance, and sustainable resource management. The programme prepares candidates to undertake independent research on marine ecosystems, ocean and coastal processes, biodiversity, and human–environment interactions. Grounded in scientific inquiry and guided by the science–policy interface and systems thinking, it adopts a multidisciplinary research approach that integrates natural sciences with social, economic, and governance perspectives to address complex marine and coastal challenges.

    Research encompasses marine ecology, oceanography, biodiversity conservation, environmental monitoring, marine spatial planning, the blue economy, climate resilience, food security, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable ocean governance. Candidates apply advanced research methodologies, critically synthesise knowledge, analyse complex scientific and socio-environmental data, and generate original findings that strengthen evidence-informed policy and management.

    Graduates will demonstrate intellectual leadership and advanced research capability, contributing to marine science through scientific expertise and evidence-based solutions for sustainable marine and coastal development. They will be well prepared for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, government, industry, international organisations, and the non-governmental sector.

    The research programme/graduate opportunities include:

    • Marine Policy
    • Marine Management and Conservation
    • Coral Reef Ecosystem
    • Marine Science

    Master of Social Science

    • Anthropology and Sociology
    • Economics
    • Political Science

      Master of Social Science in Anthropology and Sociology

      Program Synopsis

      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
      2. Ethnicity & Identity
      3. Development Sociology
      4. Critical Policy Research
      5. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & Philanthropy
      6. Multireligions & Multicultural Studies
      7. Social Anthropology
      8. Migration Studies

      The Policy Takeaway:

      By housing these focus areas under CPR rather than a standard social sciences school, USM ensures that your Master's or PhD research doesn't sit forgotten on a library shelf. Instead, the curriculum is designed to produce specialists capable of transforming deep ethnographic insights into real-world state and national policy frameworks.

       

      Master of Social Science in Economics

      Program Synopsis

      The Master of Social Science in Economics is a research-based programme that provides students with a strong foundation in economic theory, applied economics, statistics and econometrics. The programme prepares students to analyse contemporary economic issues, evaluate public policy, and conduct empirical research relevant to economic and social development. The programme covers the following research thrust areas:

      • Development Economics
      • Tourism Economics
      • Public Economics
      • Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
      • International Economics and Trade
      • Business Economics
      • Labour Economics

      These thrust areas enable students to conduct research on a wide range of economic issues, including development, tourism, public policy, environmental sustainability, international trade, business decision-making, and labour market dynamics. Graduates on the programme are well prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, international organisations, policy think tanks, consultancy firms and the private sector.

      Master of Social Science in Political Sciences

      Program Synopsis

      At the Centre for Policy Research (CPR), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), the Master of Social Sciences in Political Science is designed for emerging policy analysts, public sector professionals, and social researchers determined to address complex governance challenges. This programme bridges advanced political theory with practical, evidence-based policy analysis to equip you with the tools needed to drive administrative excellence and societal development.

       

      We welcome Master's candidates to conduct research across our four key thrusts:

      • Political Economy
      • Local Government Studies
      • Public Management
      • Political Science