MSc Social Science Research Methods (Sociology)

Gain comprehensive training in the whole process of research conceptualisation, design and operationalisation. Develop a thorough theoretical and practical grounding in the variety of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods available to the social scientist, and in the principal methods of analysing data. The programme is particularly suitable if you are seeking a career as a social science researcher or going on to a PhD, including Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded doctoral study. It has been carefully formulated to reflect the training recommended by the ESRC and accredited as a research training programme. Get equipped with strong methodological provision and clear understandings of how, when, and why to deploy research methods, as well as how to locate secondary data sources and judge the appropriateness of applying quantitative methods to answer specific social scientific questions. Explore the philosophies underpinning the research process, ethical considerations, and social theory. Apply your methods training to your substantive research interests and make your own contribution to human knowledge through your dissertation. Be challenged and inspired by the research methods expertise of academics in the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies. Join a diverse, innovative community that's building the tools to create positive change in the world. Graduate ready to design and manage effective research projects, carry out detailed academic analysis and present your data to the highest standard.

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in any discipline. Applicants must have evidence of at least one quantitative and one qualitative module/unit at 2.1 or equivalent.Examples of acceptable Quantitative units include: Data Analysis; Data Mining; Programming; Quantitative Research Methods; Research Design and Practice; Statistics; other relevant modules where quantitative research training or skills can be demonstrated.Examples of acceptable Qualitative units include: Behavioural Studies/Research; Comparative Politics/Research; Qualitative Research; Social Research; Survey; other relevant modules where qualitative research training or skills can be demonstrated.If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.