MSc Social Research

University of Plymouth

Immerse yourself in the social sciences with this interdisciplinary programme, designed to spark curiosity and advance research. Gain hands-on experience in qualitative and quantitative methods, including the analysis and visualisation of ‘big data’. Collaborate with leading academics on real-world projects while developing original research. Whether you intend to use the programme for pursuing a PhD, or a career in social research, this programme equips you with the expertise to make an impact.Pursue personal research under the supervision of expert, accessible and experienced academic members of staff.Collaborate with staff on established ‘real-world’ research projects, for instance by assisting with data collection and analysis.Personalise broader study and assessment in line with individual research interests.Become immersed in an interdisciplinary learning experience that will enable you to work with students from a variety of subjects and backgrounds.Confidently apply a wide range of skills and competencies, including those associated with the bidding and delivery of social research.The programme begins by outlining the importance of social research, the type of matters that are increasingly being investigated, and the mechanisms through which research is funded and supported. After this, the modules in semester one begin to introduce the different theories, philosophies, and methodologies associated with social research. Exposure will be given to both quantitative and qualitative approaches, including the analysis of big data. Innovative practices concerning the collection and analysis of data will be showcased, drawing from the research and expertise of the School’s extensive team of researchers. You will gain practical experience in writing a research proposal, from the setting of questions and objectives, to reflecting on the merits of using different research tools. You will appreciate the importance of effective project and time management and will develop competencies surrounding the screening of risk. Key interventions for producing ethical research will also be reinforced. Semester one also provides opportunities for field work, for developing skills in using and programming research-related software and working with big and complex datasets. You will understand the importance of delivering impactful research, and develop skills to build your research network.

School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences