Social Science Research Methods (Sociology)

Entry requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in any discipline. Applicants must have evidence of at least one quantitative and one qualitative module/unit at 2.1 or equivalent.

• Examples of acceptable Quantitative units include: Data Analysis; Data Mining; Programming; Quantitative Research Methods; Research Design and Practice; Statistics; other relevant modules where quantitative research training or skills can be demonstrated.
• Examples of acceptable Qualitative units include: Behavioural Studies/Research; Comparative Politics/Research; Qualitative Research; Social Research; Survey; other relevant modules where qualitative research training or skills can be demonstrated.

If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.

We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.

We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.

If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing details of your relevant qualifications:

• evidence of significant, relevant work experience in sectors such as NGOs, Think Tanks, Government Departments, Research/Social Research Institutes, Third Sector research organisations and other relevant placements (minimum of six months in a paid role).
• a postgraduate qualification in any discipline.

Specific module requirements would still apply.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This programme reflects the expertise of our School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies in research methods training. It provides comprehensive training in the whole process of research conceptualisation, design and operationalisation.

The programme is particularly suitable for those seeking a career as a social science researcher or going on to a PhD, including Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded doctoral study. It has been carefully formulated to reflect the training recommended by the ESRC and has been accredited as a research training programme.

You will develop a thorough theoretical and practical grounding in the variety of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods available to the social scientist, and in the principal methods of analysing data. The programme also covers the philosophies underpinning the research process, ethical considerations, and social theory. You will be encouraged to apply your methods training to your substantive research interests.

Information for international students

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Fees and funding

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.