Social Research Methods MSc

About this degree

This degree is designed to cover the research methods and data science used in collating evidence for the design, critique and evaluation of substantive issues in the social sciences. Students will gain hands-on experience in a range of methods used to study issues of interest in the real world. Students will be expected to apply their understanding of methodology to critique existing research, design their own research, carry out their own analysis and communicate clearly with academic specialists and non-specialists.

This MSc offers advanced training in social research methods, designed to be flexible to accommodate students arriving with a range of previous methodological training. The core modules provide a good grounding in the research process and in data science and qualitative methods. The optional modules allow students to build on these and develop more advanced skills in particular methods of interest. This degree has ESRC 1+3 training recognition, meaning that it stands alone as an MSc but can also prepare students for doctoral research.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, in a social science discipline.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 4

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Graduates with skills in social data science and in qualitative research methods are in demand from a wide range of emplyers government departments, academic institutions, the media, finance and marketing.