Develop in-depth knowledge and research skills in social science. You’ll learn advanced techniques to analyse large data sets and draw effective insights.

By combining a substantial theoretical and quantitative core with comprehensive qualitative training, this course will help you gain the essential skills to become a working social science or educational researcher.

You’ll enhance your understanding of the techniques used in the analysis and presentation of quantitative data in a social science context. This will allow you to apply fundamental research techniques to large scale data sets in public and commercial life, and draw actionable conclusions.

You'll build essential skills in areas like:

• experimental and quasi-experimental research methods, such as designing and analysing studies that support causal inference
• advanced modelling techniques suitable for building and critiquing complex statistical models
• mathematics and programming, including optimisation and computational skills suited to data analysis
• ethical collection and analysis of digital data

You’ll also get hands-on practice with statistical programming within the course's core units and be able to access University-supported software and short courses.

A key element of your studies will be to identify and investigate your own original research question using advanced quantitative methods.

This course is designed to enable you to carry out high-quality doctoral research or pursue other professional research activities in private or public sector settings.

• IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
• The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
• TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components

You will need to get your English language qualification within 24 months prior to starting your course.

If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Find out what our graduates go on to do.