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’ll 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.

Education pathway

Research training in Education builds on the internationally recognised research carried out by our academic staff. You’ll benefit from this specialist expertise in education research, as well as from our interdisciplinary profile within the Social Sciences.

You will be encouraged to attend and participate in the activities of our Education Research Group, which holds regular programmes of meetings providing opportunities to share ideas and discuss issues in the policy and practice of education-related research.

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.