Curious about studying Doctor of Applied Social Researchat University of Stirling? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
Professional Doctorate
University of Stirling
Part Time
Jan 2027
4 Year
The social sciences and humanities services market is growing. There is an increased need for research-led policy responses to social challenges. (source: The Business Research Company, Jan 2025). The Doctor of Applied Social Research (DASR) course is suited to professionals from a wide range of social science backgrounds. Our tailored study pathways cover social work, criminal justice, family therapy, housing, dementia, substance use, social policy and applied social science. You’ll gain expert research skills that can be immediately put to work in your professional setting through our Professional Practice Project module. This allows you to consolidate your learning and skills in preparation for your subsequent thesis stage research. Our highly flexible course empowers you to study while you continue working. Become an effective social researcher On this professional doctorate you’ll learn important research skills including: how to design a research project that gets meaningful results; how to interpret data and use it effectively in your projects; the difference between qualitative and quantitative data, and the value of each for research; how to use Reflexivity to support your development as a reflective practitioner who works in complex practice settings; practical application of everything you’ve studied through assessments and group projects. You’ll produce an original thesis on a topic that interests you most.
This non-credited induction module will help you to be aware of important skills and resources linked to the effective exploitation of information technology and library resources in your studies and social research.
This module provides you with the opportunity to carry out a major reflective social science project around your Professional Practice.
This module will introduce you to qualitative data analysis. It aims to provide you with an understanding and experience in analysing qualitative data, including visual data.
There are diverse approaches to methodology design, such as hypothesis led, inductive and deductive enquiry, qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods.
This module provides a theoretical, empirical and methodological understanding of social network analysis.
This module will introduce you to the epistemological, ontological and theoretical foundations that underpin social scientific research and analysis.
The module is designed to enable you to: demonstrate advanced understanding and knowledge of literature around such issues as professionalism, professionalisation, and the development of professional identity; engage in reflection and critical evaluation of what it means to be (or become) a professional within your situated and wider community of practice; demonstrate advanced understanding and knowledge of research principles in an applied social science project; demonstrate advanced practical skills in the conduct of social research and data analysis; consider ways in which practice might be enhanced within your situated and wider community of practice.
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