Develop advanced social science research skills and prepare to make a substantial contribution to organisations, policy makers and academic debates. Supported by our expert researchers, you’ll gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience of essential qualitative and quantitative research methods for social sciences, alongside core skills in research design, methodology and critical analysis.

The MSc in Social Research at Lancaster University is ideal for those preparing for doctoral study or seeking research expertise for careers in policy, public service, think tanks, or the voluntary sector.

Why Lancaster?

• Learn from leading academic experts whose cutting-edge research is shaping the social sciences in the UK and globally
• Combine hands-on practical research design and project work with a real-world focus
• Join a vibrant and supportive research environment with access to world-class resources, and research centres
• Benefit from individual mentorship from one of our renowned academics and direct contact with our team of leading researchers
• Boost your career with demonstrable expertise in social science research
• Become PhD-ready on a programme that has supported students funded by the ESRC and the North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP)

Expert-led, research-informed teaching

At Lancaster, you’ll join a vibrant intellectual environment within the School of Social Sciences. Renowned for high-quality teaching and research, we are consistently in the world top 100 for Sociology (QS World Subject Rankings).

By joining the MSc in Social Research, you become a part of our multi-disciplinary research community and can benefit from our staff’s experience of taking core research skills into exciting new directions.