Entry requirements

Our standard postgraduate entry requirement is a second-class honours degree (2:2 or above) from a UK university, or an equivalent international qualification.

Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.

Months of entry

October

Course content

Our MRes Social Research and Law and Legal Studies is an interdisciplinary social science training programme designed to prepare you for further research in the workplace or for MPhil/PhD study.

The course covers ontology, epistemology, quantitative and qualitative techniques, and advanced methods masterclasses alongside substantive courses in the area of law and legal studies. You will also carry out an independent dissertation, putting into practice the methods and theoretical concepts you have been taught.

The course provides a particularly strong environment for theoretically informed, interdisciplinary and socially engaged research.

Highlights

Rigorous training in a range of contemporary social research methods, including quantitative and qualitative methods.
Focuses on research design, addressing critical issues in social research.
Interdisciplinary, theoretically informed and creative approach to research, forming an excellent foundation for doctoral progression.
Birkbeck has a strong tradition of research in the areas of law and criminology. Our academic staff are international authorities in their respective fields.

Careers and employability

Graduates can pursue career paths in government departments, think tanks, NGOs, the Civil Service and political parties. Possible professions include:

social researcher
government social researcher
human resources officer
higher education lecturer
politician’s assistant.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

Information for international students

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.

If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

MRes
full time
12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
part time
24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name: Student Advice Service
Email: studentadvice@bbk.ac.uk

Phone: +44 (0)20 3907 0700

Visit website

Apply