Course summary
Our MRes Social Research and Psychosocial 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 psychosocial 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 three research institutes of relevance to students on this degree: Birkbeck Institute for Social Research, Birkbeck Institute for the Humanities and Birkbeck Gender and Sexuality. Each organises regular talks and masterclasses, which our students can attend.
- social researcher
- government social researcher
- human resources officer
- higher education lecturer
- politician’s assistant.
Modules
For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.
Assessment method
In Intermediate Quantitative Social Research, assessment is based on a research project and a final examination. In the other modules, assessment is by coursework, including essays, reports and portfolios.
How to apply
International applicants
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.
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. We will review every postgraduate application to Birkbeck on its 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.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £5535 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £5535 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £5535 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £5535 | Year 1 |
| International | £10170 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases.
Provider information
Birkbeck, University of London
Malet Street
Bloomsbury
London
WC1E 7HX
Course contact details
Visit our course pageBirkbeck Student Advice Service
0203 907 0700