Social Science Research

Overview

This programme provides practical, career-orientated training in social science research methods, including research design, data collection and data analysis relating to both qualitative and quantitative modes of inquiry.



Students will have the opportunity to specialise in particular methodologies and to learn more about the application of these methodologies to illuminate important issues and debates in contemporary society.



The MRes is designed to develop critical understanding of contemporary issues for both those interested in developing academic and research-oriented careers and those who are interested in improving their research skills and critical understanding for practical employment-orientated careers.



Course Structure

The programme is designed to provide a fundamental grounding in both quantitative and qualitative research skills, along with the opportunity to specialise in new methods and in practical applications of research techniques.



The MRes is awarded to students who successfully complete taught modules amounting to 120 CATS and a research dissertation (60 CATS points).



The programme can be completed in one year on a full-time basis or over two or three years part-time.



The modules are delivered via a mixture of traditional lecture, seminar, workshop and computer lab class. Students are expected to undertake a substantial amount of independent study at this level. Master’s students completing a dissertation will meet one-to-one with their academic supervisor throughout the course of their studies to provide guidance on their project.

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.



Year 1

Core Modules

• Qualitative Data Analysis (10 credits)

• Quantitative Data Analysis: Intermediate (10 credits)

• Quantitative Data Analysis: Foundational (10 credits)

• Research Design (20 credits)

• Theory and Debates in Social Research (20 credits)

• The Sources and Construction of Quantitative Data (10 credits)

• Dissertation (60 credits)

• The Sources and Construction of Qualitative Data (10 credits)



Optional Modules

• Exploring Technology in Contem (10 credits)

• Inequality and Emotions (10 credits)

• Qualitative Research with Children and Young People (10 credits)

• Social Divisions, Conflict and Change in Northern Ireland: New Sociological Research (10 credits)

• Social Science Research On-line (10 credits).

Graduate

Normally a 2.2 Honours degree (with minimum of 55%) or above or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in a social science or related discipline (eg. Sociology, Crmininology, Political Science).



Normally a 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University if the degree is in a non-related discipline.



Applicants holding a strong 2.2 Honours degree (with minimum of 55%) in a non-related discipline may be considered if they have at least two years of professional experience in a relevant context.



International Students

Please see International Student's link below.

Closing date for applications: Thursday 31 July 2025 at 4pm.

Late applications may be considered.



Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder.



Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.

An overall mark of 50 per cent is required to pass each module.


Modules have a broad range of summative assessment, from traditional essay through to short research reports involving original analysis of data. Some modules also offer the valuable opportunity for formative assessment, i.e., for feedback on their work which does not contribute towards the final module mark.

3 years (Part-time)

1 year (Full-time)



Teaching Times

The programme is usually delivered in evenings and full day/half day sessions, including weekends.

Entry Year: 2025/26

Career Prospects

Research skills are highly transferable and marketable, and needed across a range of sectors – academic, government, charities and business. MRes students receive excellent advanced training in both quantitative and qualitative research skills and gain experience of independent project management through the dissertation. Graduates can use their qualification to develop a career in any aspect of social research. The MRes is also ideal high-level preparation for doctoral research (PhD).



Employment after the Course

After graduation, students are well placed to continue on to doctoral research, applying their research skills to carry out an in-depth investigation of a particular topic. Past graduates have secured funded PhDs on a variety of topics, from cyber surveillance to educational inequality. Some students have moved into careers in social research or used their qualification to upskill in their current job, for example, in charities or government departments.