Learn fundamental research methodologies in preparation for work in social research, social policy, and governmental and commercial organisations.

Course summary

Learn social research methods and the supporting theories and philosophies.
Develop areas of specialist interests to integrate into your methodological training.
Discuss research issues with students from other postgraduate and doctoral courses.
Critique current developments and conduct your own original research.

On this course, you’ll focus on research specialisms encompassing sociology, social policy, politics, criminology, education studies, urban studies, youth studies and cultural studies. You’ll study a range of research methodologies – including interview-based narrative and biographical research, case studies, media analysis and statistical analysis of large data sets.

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

The course includes a research-based dissertation, which may become a pilot study towards a PhD. Several recent students have gone onto doctoral level study. You can also take individual modules as short courses or combine them towards a postgraduate diploma (PgDip) or certificate (PgCert) in Research Methods in Social Science.

You learn through

essays
research projects
presentations
research proposals

Work placements

The entire MRes programme is geared towards applied learning – providing the skills (methodological, analytical, theoretical and practical) you’ll need to manage real-world research projects. These skills will be showcased in your extended dissertation.

Beyond this, you’ll have the opportunity to arrange a two-week long work placement with one of Sheffield Hallam University’s externally facing research centres – such as the Centre for Development and Research in Education, the Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research and the Sheffield Institute for Policy Studies. This will give you valuable insight into the world of policy-oriented research.

In addition to this, you will also be able to access the Professional Skills for Research Leadership programme of events, which provides advice and skills for those seeking to pursue research careers inside and outside of academia.

Future careers

This course prepares you for a career in

social policy
research administration
senior executive officer positions
the probation service
research and lecturing

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for

BMI General Healthcare
Thornbury Hospital, Sheffield
Graduate Centre, Sheffield Hallam University
Department for Education and Employment
National Probation Service