University of Stirling United Kingdom

MSc Substance Use

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode Online
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MSc Substance Use at the University of Stirling is designed for professionals and graduates seeking to deepen their expertise in a field critical to public health and social welfare. You will explore the complex theories, comparative policies, and evidence-based interventions surrounding drug and alcohol use, equipping you to address significant societal challenges. This postgraduate degree offers an interdisciplinary perspective, enabling you to understand substance use within broader contexts such as criminal justice, housing, and public health practice. If you are driven to make a tangible impact in support and research roles, this course provides the advanced knowledge and analytical skills required.

You will study this Masters Degree online and part-time over two years, allowing you to balance your professional development with existing commitments. The curriculum includes compulsory modules like 'Drug Use: Theories and Comparative Policies' and 'Alcohol Use: Policies and Interventions', alongside a range of optional modules such as 'Quantitative Research Methods' and 'Health Promotion & Behaviour Change'. Throughout your studies, you will develop crucial research methods and policy analysis skills, culminating in a significant dissertation. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for advanced roles in substance use services, policy development, and research across the UK and internationally.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc program delves into the complexities of substance use, exploring theoretical frameworks, comparative policies, and evidence-based interventions for both drug and alcohol use. Students will engage with social and quantitative research methods to critically analyze policy and practice. The curriculum also touches upon related areas such as rehabilitation, criminal justice, housing services, and public health, offering a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of substance use and its societal impact.

1 Year one: Autumn semester (option one)

Drug use: Theories and comparative policies Compulsory
Social research methods Compulsory
Quantitative research methods Option
Rehabilitation and criminal justice work Option
Providing housing services Option
Public health practice Option
Dissertation Option

2 Year one: Spring semester (option one)

Drug use: Evidence based policy and interventions Compulsory
Alcohol use: Policies and interventions Compulsory
Healthy housing Option
Health promotion & behaviour change Option

3 Year one: Summer semester (option one)

Public health policy Option

4 Year one: Autumn semester (option two)

Drug use: Theories and comparative policies Compulsory
Social research methods Compulsory
Quantitative research methods Option
Rehabilitation and criminal justice work Option
Providing housing services Option
Public health practice Option

5 Year one: Spring semester (option two)

Alcohol use: Policies and interventions Compulsory
Drug use: Evidence based policy and interventions Compulsory
Healthy housing Option
Health promotion & behaviour change Option
Final year project (online version) Compulsory

6 Year one: Summer semester (option two)

Public health policy Option

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 8,988.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 8,988.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 17,977.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Stirling Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAmusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaMuseums & Cultural HeritageSports & AthleticsTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AQA

Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES)

NHS

NHS Lothian

University of Edinburgh

Why Study MSc Substance Use at University of Stirling

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Very Fast Application response time

University of Stirling typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Stirling in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MSc Substance Use at University of Stirling

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed, but part-time students and those wishing to be self-employed cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you'll need a minimum TOEFL score of 80 overall, with specific sub-scores. Alternatively, an IELTS overall score of 6.5 or a PTE score of 62 will also be accepted.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as substance use counselors, public health specialists, rehabilitation coordinators, and policy analysts.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MSc Substance Use course focuses on understanding substance use and developing skills related to public health and rehabilitation. It offers an interdisciplinary approach through optional modules that enhance both knowledge and employability.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Substance Use program has an intake in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to secure your spot.
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