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.

Sociology pathway

We’re a centre of research excellence in Sociology, with a number of well-established research centres, and widely recognised for our methodological innovation, application and training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

You’ll have the opportunity to work with a wide range of leading researchers, on a range of themes and drawing on varied approaches and theories. You’ll have opportunities to attend seminars and data analysis organised by our numerous interdisciplinary research groups, as well as attending events organised by our major research centres, including the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research, Data and Methods.