PCert Social Research Methods

University of Kent

United Kingdom, Canterbury

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Home/United Kingdom/Canterbury /University of Kent/PCert Social Research Methods

University of Kent

United Kingdom , Canterbury

Key Facts

Program Level

PhD (Philosophy Doctorate)

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Campuses

Canterbury

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesSeptember-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 1 year(s)

Next Intake September-2026

PCert Social Research Methods

About

Overview

This MSc course at Kent exposes students to a wide range of thinking and approaches in social science research presented in a multi-disciplinary context and at an advanced level.

The focus of the course is on developing practical skills in data collection, in data analysis and interpretation, and in the presentation of research findings so that students gain insight into the research process from design to the production of new knowledge.

More generally students will broaden their understanding of the philosophical, theoretical and ethical issues that matter in research, and will become aware of debates about the relationship between theory and research and between research and policy/practice.

Standalone modules

It is possible to study certain individual modules from the MSc on a Standalone basis. They provide a taster and introduction to studying Social Research Methods, and if you wish to continue studying, you can use the credits from your taster modules to work towards a qualification in Social Research Methods (PCert or MSc). Costs for standalone modules can be found on the Kent Online Store (please note that you must submit an application (link below) before paying for a module on the online store).

Apply to study a Standalone module

Requirements

Entry Requirements

A good honours degree in a relevant subject. In certain circumstances, the School will consider applicants who have not followed a conventional education path and these cases are assessed individually.

All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and relevant experience may also be taken into account when considering applications.

International students

Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. Due to visa restrictions, students who require a student visa to study cannot study part-time unless undertaking a distance or blended-learning programme with no on-campus provision.

English language entry requirements

This course requires a Very Good level of English language, equivalent to a high B2 on CEFR.

Details on how to meet this requirement can be found on our English Language requirements webpage.

Examples:

IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component

PTE Academic 67 with a minimum of 59 in each sub-test

A degree from the UK

A degree from a Majority English Speaking Country

Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways.

Career

Your future

Building on Kent’s success as the region’s leading institution for student employability, we place considerable emphasis on you gaining specialist knowledge in your chosen subject alongside core transferable skills.

We ensure that you develop the skills and competences that employers are looking for including: research and analysis; policy development and interpretation; independent thought; writing and presentation, as well as time management and leadership skills.

You also become fully involved in the professional research culture of the School. A postgraduate degree in the area of social and public policy is a particularly flexible and valuable qualification that can lead to many exciting opportunities and professions.

Recent graduates have pursued careers in academia, journalism, local and central government, charities and NGOs.

Career support

Whether you want to get ahead in your current career, change lanes, or kickstart a new one – we are here to help you realise your ambition.