Social Sciences Master of Research - MRes

Gain strong foundations in the principles and methods of social science research and prepare for doctoral study or professional roles.

During this course, you’ll develop the research foundations, methodological expertise, and professional skills needed to address contemporary questions across the social sciences.

You'll gain a thorough understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods and approaches, giving you the foundation to identify actionable insights from diverse data sets that can inform policy, practice, and academic knowledge.

Through a wide selection of optional units, you’ll then apply this knowledge to your chosen specialism, such as sociology, politics, education, criminology, psychology, health, sports science, or social policy.

The overall blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application will prepare you for doctoral-level study or a variety of research-based and/or professional roles.

If you want to specialise in either psychology or advanced quantitative methods, please choose one of our other MRes degrees:

* MRes Social Sciences (Advanced Quantitative Methods)

* MRes Psychology

## Gain key skills

Upon successful completion this course, you will have:

* a strong understanding of social science research traditions, including the ability to critically engage with theories, paradigms, and research designs relevant to social science inquiry

* deep knowledge of a variety of research techniques for interpreting social issues and the necessary methodological expertise to analyse quantitative and qualitative data

* a rounded set of competencies relevant for research-based roles, including inter-disciplinary collaboration, awareness of complex ethical issues, project and data management expertise

> ## South West Doctoral Training Partnership
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> This MRes is recognised by the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC), specifically, as part of the larger South-West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP). It can be taken as a course in its own right, or if you hold an SWDTP studentship you can take the 1+3 (MRes + PhD) pathway.
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> If you wish to be considered for a 1+3 SWDTP studentship, then you must apply for your preferred PhD route and not the stand-alone MRes. You should follow our how to apply guidelines.
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> For those holding a 1+3 SWDTP studentship, progression from the MRes to the MPhil or PhD stage is dependent on an acceptable level of achievement.

## Learn from experts in their field

You will work with experts in social science research. Their passion, knowledge and research shape their teaching to enhance your learning experience.

## Graduate prospects

There is increasing demand for advanced research skills from a wide range of private and public sector recruiters.

Many organisations and government departments are now committed to data-driven decision-making, making the ability to extract evidence-based insights important.

This course equips you with a hybrid skillset that combines philosophical and theoretical knowledge with methodological expertise to provide a strong understanding of social science inquiry.

Our graduates generally go on to work in a wide variety of organisations and roles, such as:

* social research in universities and research institutes, government, business, voluntary organisations and international organisations

* public policy analysis at local, national and international levels

* public information provision and campaigning within organisations concerned with wellbeing, sustainability and social justice

The MRes also provides an excellent foundation for those who wish to progress to doctoral study and pursue an academic research career.