Advanced training in research methods preparing you for PhD study.

The MSc Social Science Research Methods will provide you with advanced training in research methods across the full range of the social sciences. All course pathways have ESRC recognition and meet the training requirements for ESRC PhD funding.

This programme offers extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study, the application of social research expertise for occupational career development, and the pursuit of substantive area of interest at postgraduate level.

You’ll be provided with a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies, of the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing social scientific data. You will also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated.

Criminology pathway

The Criminology pathway will provide you with analytic and research skills, a practical understanding of the production of criminological research, and an interdisciplinary knowledge base, drawing upon the perspectives of sociology, social policy, law, psychology and political science.

Our staff are nationally and internationally renowned for pioneering research and writing on both specialist and general topics. Our staff and your peer students bring a wide variety of histories and academic backgrounds to the programme, which provides exciting exposure to a diversity of practical experiences as well as in-depth academic knowledge.

Career prospects

This programme provides knowledge and expertise suitable for careers in research and development, business, market studies, public agencies at international, national and local levels, education, teaching and other public services work, and voluntary organisations.

It also provides appropriate training for proceeding to a PhD.