Applicant information
What happens after you apply to Bristol?
MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Sociology)
| Awards Available | MSc PG Diploma |
|---|---|
| Duration of programme | One year full-time; two years part-time |
| Part-time study available? | Yes |
| Number of places | 40 |
Page contents
Programme overview
Social Science Research Methods (Sociology) reflects the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies (SPAIS) expertise in Research Methods training and provides comprehensive training in the whole process of research conceptualisation, design and operationalisation. It is especially formulated to reflect the training recommended by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and has been accredited as a Research Training programme. It is particularly suited for those seeking a career as a social science researcher or proceeding to a PhD, including ESRC-funded doctoral study.
You are given thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of the variety of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing data. The programme also covers the research process, ethical considerations and social theory. You will also be encouraged to apply your methods training to substantive research interests.
You may also be interested in our related programmes:
Entry requirements
An upper second-class honours degree or equivalent qualification. Applicants with a lower second-class honours degree or equivalent may be eligible for Postgraduate Diploma entry.
For information on international equivalent qualifications, please see our International Office website.
Admissions statement
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
Programme structure
The MSc programme lasts 50 weeks (September to September). It comprises six 12-week taught units and six assessed essays, followed by a dissertation.
Core units
- Qualitative Social Research
- Quantitative Social Research
- Comparative Research Design
- Dissertation
Plus at least one of the following:
- Advanced Qualitative Research
- Advanced Quantitative Research
- Discourse Analysis: Research Methods for Politics and International Relations
- Political Research Methods
Optional units
You will also take two 20-credit units from the full optional list running in SPAIS during Teaching Block 2. A list of current units is available on the SPAIS website.
Dissertation
The summer term is completed with a dissertation. The dissertation enables you to pursue an independent, in-depth study, reflecting on the epistemological and methodologial issues covered in the taught element of the programme.
Application deadline: 1 July 2014. Those seeking admission under the ESRC should apply by 1 February 2014
Get in touch
Graduate Studies Administrator
School for Sociology, Politics and International Studies
University of Bristol
11 Priory Road
Bristol
BS8 1TU
Tel: +44 (0) 117 331 7577
Email: spais-mscenquiries@bristol.ac.uk
Web: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/spais/prospective/prospectivepgt
International students
Open to international students? Yes
English-language requirements: 6.5 overall with 6.0 in all bands, in addition to the standard entry requirements.
Find information for international students on eligibility, funding options and studying at Bristol.
Fees and funding
2014/15 fees
Full-time: UK/EU £5,600;
overseas £14,600
Part-time: UK/EU £2,800;
overseas n/a
Fees are quoted per annum and are subject to annual increase.
Funding options
The Department has a quota of 1+3 and +3 ESRC scholarships
for UK/EU students.
Further information on funding for prospective UK, EU and international postgraduate students is available from the Student Funding Office.
Research Assessment Score
Unit of Assessment 41 applies. See Complete RAE listings for University of Bristol for further details.
Useful further information
Accommodation
Our Accommodation Office helps all postgraduate students find accommodation.
Living in Bristol
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