Social Research Methods MSc

Why choose this course
Our MSc Social Research Methods is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of the full methodological toolkit available to social science researchers. These skills are in high demand, and many of our graduates go on to work in research agencies such as the Office for National Statistics, Ipsos Mori and the Home Office, while others go on to study for a PhD.

We have an unrivalled research methods heritage, and our teaching is backed by decades of experience. We were the first in the UK to run this type of course in 1974.

What you will study
This course examines both quantitative and qualitative approaches, beginning with a comprehensive overview of the research essentials. You’ll learn about how to formulate research questions and the connections between theory and method, as well as important approaches to data collection and the main analytic techniques.

Once you’ve established these core skills for advanced social research, you’ll select four options from a suite of advanced methods courses taught intensively in week-long modules. This innovative modular format is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of specific research techniques, combining lectures with practical workshops in our computer lab. This enables you to fully immerse yourself in particular research approaches, as well as tailor your learning experience to your research interests.