MRes Social Science Research Methods

Course Overview

Give yourself the edge by studying at an internationally renowned centre for impactful research. Whether you’re a recent graduate with an interest in research, a professional with a research idea that you have a passion to investigate, or considering applying for a PhD in future, this MRes build your research skills and push you towards the forefront of your field.

Throughout the course, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills you need to successfully design and complete Master’s level research. You’ll explore and become practiced in a range of advanced research methods, tailored to your needs, and benefit from the expert guidance of a specialist supervisor in your field of interest.

This course is ideal preparation for PhD study, or for a research-based role in a university setting, the third sector, or government.

Gain training in advanced research skills on our MRes Social Science Research Methods degree. Open to students across a range of disciplines, you’ll also develop the specialist skills of your subject area and designated School of Study, as well as take advantage of access to modules from other fields, building a truly interdisciplinary experience. You’ll be able to apply, with expertise, the principles of social science research and design to your particular specialism and your own research project.

As part of this Master’s, you’ll complete a significant piece of independent research, guided by a specialist supervisor who will be an expert in your chosen field.

In addition to your research modules, you’ll have the opportunity to undergo professional training, which will prove essential to a successful career in research and enhancing transferable skills. You’ll refine your skills in writing research proposals, critically appraising research, and writing for publication. Our degree programme provides you with the option to undertake a research placement, with the aim of strengthening your research skills and making career-shaping contacts.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should normally have a good undergraduate degree from a recognised higher education institution.

Applicants must submit a short (approx. 500 word) research proposal in support of their application and a proposed supervisor. You can find a potential supervisor on the people pages of each Schools webpages. This should indicate their initial thoughts about a possible research topic and should consider why the topic might be important, whether there is a research gap in this area, and propose a possible methodology for the investigation.

Please note, however, that the final research topic will be finalised in discussion with supervisors at the start of the course.

Employability

This course gives you advanced training in research methods, which is ideal preparation for PhD study, or for a career with a significant research component, such as a research associate role in a university, the third sector or within government.

Examples of careers that you could enter include:

• Researcher in academic or research institutions
• Work with international and national non-governmental agencies, including the voluntary sector
• Government departments both in UK and internationally

Discover more on our Careers webpages.