Sociology - Applied Social Research

The course focus is on sociological research methods, and the intention is to produce graduates ready to embark on research careers in the private, public, voluntary or academic spheres. Modules on qualitative and quantitative methods form the core of the course, along with modules on substantive issues of contemporary relevance. Theoretical framing and analysis of qualitative data, and statistical analysis of large-scale survey data sets is central to the course. Faculty have extensive research experience in a variety of areas, including the media, social exclusion, stratification and inequality, the restructuring of work, feminist methodologies, community development, education, marriage and divorce. A research dissertation is a key element of the course.

The aim of the programme is

To provide students with state-of-the art methodological skills

To provide students with an advanced level of knowledge and expertise in all stages of research design, implementation and analysis

To provide students with an advanced level of knowledge in a number of substantive areas of sociology including social exclusion and social change

To enable students to carry out highquality social research, in work or in PhD programmes

The basic requirement is a first or second-class Honours degree in sociology or a cognate area or an approved equivalent qualification or an equivalent capability based on prior substantial relevant experience (Primary Degree: Level 8- National Qualifications Authority of Ireland). Applicants may be required to submit a portfolio of work and undergo an interview.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet one of the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application):

Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following:

•Matriculation examinations from European countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved

•Irish Leaving Certificate English –Ordinary Level Grade D or above

•TOEFL – 580 (paper based) or 90 (internet based)

•IELTS – Minimum score of 6.5* with no less than 6 in any one component.

•English Test for English and Academic Purposes (ETAPP) – Grade C1

•GCE 'O' level English Language/GCSE English Language – Grade C or above

•Cambridge Assessment English –Certificate of Proficiency in English - Grade C / Certificate in Advanced English Grade B

•GCE Examination Boards – Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations – Grade C / Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate – School Certificate Pass 1-6 / University of London Entrance and School Examinations Council – School Certificate Pass 1-6

Results in examinations other than those listed above may also be accepted as meeting our English language requirements. Contact the International Education Division for advice.

Autumn Semester
Quantitative Research Methods 1,
Qualitative Research methods 1
Researching Social Exclusion,

Spring Semester
Quantitative Research Methods 2 or Qualitative Research methods 2
Researching Social Change

Summer Semester
Dissertation (15,000 words)

The Full-time cohort undertake three modules in semester 1 and in semester 2 and complete a dissertation by the end of August. Part-time students undertake two modules in semester 1, and one or two modules in the following semesters until six modules have been completed and start working on the dissertation in the first semester. Two mini module are also offered.

1 Year Full-Time OR 2 Years Part-Time

Start Date: 09/Sep/2019

Graduate Profile
Opportunities for the graduates exist in research in the public, voluntary and private sectors.