ObjectivesThe MA in Research Methods will equip you with the theoretical understanding and practical skills required to carry out in-depth research in Sociology using a variety of methodological approaches and research techniques.
Entry requirementsThis course will be of particular interest to those preparing for doctoral studies.
Course Content
The taught component of the programme consists of 120 credits taken over one year for full time students and two years for part-time students. In addition to the core modules which account for 80 credits, students will also take two 20 subject specific modules.
A student will then take 5 common taught modules plus two subject specific modules relating to their own chosen pathway. In addition each student will undertake a subject specific dissertation.
Assessment
Each module is individually assessed. The assessments enable students to demonstrate a range of research skills including critical analysis through essay; report writing; group work; oral presentations; project development and completion.
The 15,000 word dissertation will be a research proposal consisting of a literature review and research work that is relevant to the students own discipline area. Each student will have an individual supervisor who will oversee the dissertation.
Assignments will be marked and moderated internally, and marks will be subject to approval from the External Examiner.
Course Structure MA in Research Methods Full time
Semester One
Research Design and Practice 10 credits
Philosophy of Social Science 10 credits
Quantitative Methods & Data Analysis 20 credits
Contemporary Debates in Sociology 20 credits
Semester Two
Qualitative Research: Issues and Methods 10 credits
Applied Qualitative Methods 20 credits
Globalisation, Citizenship and Identity 20 credits
Graduate School Courses on-going throughout the programme 10 credits
Dissertation on-going throughout the programme 60 credits
MA in Research Methods Part time
Year 1
Semester One
Research Design and Practice 10 credits
Quantitative Methods & Data Analysis 20 credits
Semester Two
Qualitative Research: Issues and Methods 10 credits
Contemporary Debates in Sociology 20 credits
Year 2
Semester three
Philosophy of Social Science 10 credits
Globalisation, Citizenship and Identity 20 credits
Semester four
Applied Qualitative Methods 20 credits
Graduate School Courses on-going throughout the programme 10 credits
Dissertation on-going throughout the programme 60 credits