ObjectivesThe course aims to be as eclectic as possible and covers as much qualitative as quantitative work. No prior knowledge of statistics, software or computing is assumed. There is an emphasis on the applied nature of social science research, with many opportunities for hands-on training in a range of techniques, including statistical packages, information retrieval and qualitative data analysis. Some students use the course as an opportunity to undertake research training associated with a research degree such as a PhD; others take specific modules that are particularly useful to their work. In all cases, satisfactory completion of modules leads to credits that may be used at a later stage on this or another course of study.
Entry requirementsEntry Requirements: Usually a good Honours degree in a social science or cognate discipline. We also welcome applications from people with relevant work experience.
Academic titleMSc/PgD/PgC Social Science Research
Course descriptionThe Information Society increasingly demands an awareness of social science research methods, data collection techniques and data interpretation in the broadest of senses.
This innovative course helps people working in the public and voluntary sectors to meet these demands, although it is also attractive to private sector personnel as well. Current students include employees from health, probation and social services, the police and a range of voluntary sector organisations.
How To Study
Part-time students will spend approximately four and a half hours a week in lectures, seminars and practical workshops, and full-time students approximately nine hours per week. We emphasise project-based learning, often taking examples from students’ own work situations. The Certificate and Diploma stages are taught in a group situation and each module is individually assessed. You need to satisfactorily complete each stage before embarking upon the next.
The MSc degree involves completing the taught component and a dissertation of around 20,000 words based on an individual piece of research, which may be work-related. You will be assigned an individual supervisor for the dissertation with whom you will meet on a regular basis.