Course details

The MA in Social Research Methods has been designed to provide a broad-based practical grounding in research methods training across the social sciences with a specific focus on the research practices of a chosen field. You can choose to focus on social policy, criminology, sociology or social work.

The course is one of a suite of methods-based postgraduate degrees delivered across the University. Successful completion provides wide-ranging opportunities for interdisciplinary study which can help you transition into enhanced careers in academia, the public sector, non-governmental organisations, charitable organisations, the business sector and more. Alternatively, it can serve as a stepping-stone into social science research.

You will look at the conceptual and practical underpinnings and implications of research, exploring a range of research techniques and the rationale behind them. The MA Social Research Methods will enable you to develop essential skills in both quantitative and qualitative work and to apply those skills to social research in your chosen field. Some combinations of modules (subject to availability) offer recognised training as part of the North East and Northern Ireland Doctoral Training Partnership.

The Department of Sociology is home to the Centre for Social Justice and Community Action and the Centre for Research into Violence and Abuse. As a student in the Department, your learning will be informed by the ongoing research carried out by experts from the research centres, many of whom are working at the forefront of their field.