MSc Social Research Methods

This programme will equip you with theoretical understanding and practical skills in all stages of research in the social sciences – from design to data collection, analysis and interpretation, and critical appreciation as a "consumer" of research. You'll learn both quantitative and qualitative research methods, but you'll have the opportunity to specialise in one of these if you prefer. You can choose to complement your methods training with one or two substantively focused courses from another department. You'll design and carry out an empirical social science research project for your dissertation, with the support of an academic supervisor.

Our interdisciplinary approach will give you confidence to apply your expertise in a broad range of settings. Our graduates go on to successful careers in sectors including academia, governmental and non-governmental organisations, and public and private sectors.

Our syllabus goes beyond the ESRC’s requirements for the first year of a 1+3 PhD programme, making it excellent training for doctoral research.

The MSc is eligible for ESRC funding as the "1" (first year) of the following "1+3" PhD programmes:

• MSc Social Research Methods (Gender) is part of the MPhil/PhD Gender
• MSc Social Research Methods (Social/Formal) is part of the MPhil/PhD Demography (Social/Formal)

If you wish to apply for either of these streams, you need to submit a dual application for the MSc and corresponding MPhil/PhD.