Course summary

Advanced training in research methods preparing you for employment or PhD study. The MSc Social Science Research Methods will provide you with advanced training in research methods across the full range of the social sciences. Taught by colleagues in the School of Social Sciences, Cardiff Business School, School of Geography and Planning, School of Psychology, and School of Law and Politics, this programme offers extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study, the application of social research expertise for occupational career development, and the pursuit of a substantive area of interest at postgraduate level, with the programme meeting the training requirements for ESRC PhD funding. You’ll be provided with thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies, of the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing social scientific data. You’ll also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated. You’ll be able to select methods to specialise in at advanced level, before applying your skills and knowledge in researching and writing a dissertation. This degree is an invaluable qualification which will ensure you develop the skills required to build a successful research career across the public, private and third sectors, as well as for further academic study.