Applicant information
What happens after you apply to Bristol?
MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Politics / International Relations)
| Awards Available | MSc PG Diploma |
|---|---|
| Duration of programme | One year full-time; two years part-time |
| Part-time study available? | Yes |
| Number of places | 36 |
Page contents
Programme overview
This MSc provides ESRC-approved research training in politics and international relations. We aim to provide a thorough grounding in practical methodological skills through hands-on experience and the critical exploration of relevant examples and case studies. It is particularly suited to those seeking a career as a social science researcher or proceeding to PhD level, including ESRC-funded doctoral study. The School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies (SPAIS) promotes a closely-knit student community with easy access to members of staff who all give teaching and supervision a high priority while maintaining high-quality, high-volume research.
The programme provides thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of the variety of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods available to the social scientist, and of the principle methods of analysing data. The programme also covers the research process, ethical considerations and social theory. You will be encouraged to apply your methods training to substantive research interests.
Entry requirements
An upper second-class honours degree or equivalent qualification.
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
plus at least one from the following list:
- Philosophy of Social Science
- 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.Application deadline: 1 September 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 at least 6.0 in each band, 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 39 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
Discover more about living in Bristol and the city of Bristol.