Sociotechnical Futures and Digital Methods Masters in Research (MRes)

Develop your understanding of the social and political implications of digitalisation, and learn how to effectively research and investigate them.<br/><br/>During this course, you’ll become a fully trained social science researcher with expertise in computational methods and sociotechnical futures. Key topics that sit within this area include:<br/><br/><br/>- the use of AI and algorithms across various domains<br/><br/><br/>- technology and automation<br/><br/><br/>- the social and political implications of digitalisation<br/><br/><br/>- cybersecurity<br/><br/><br/>- digital technologies and climate change<br/><br/><br/>Through a focus on computational, quantitative and qualitative methods and approaches, you’ll gain the essential skills needed to progress your studies or become a professional researcher in these areas.<br/><br/>You’ll enhance your understanding of the techniques used in the analysis of large-scale data and how to effectively present key insights and findings.<br/><br/>This course is designed to provide high-quality training to potential doctoral students, as well as essential research skills that are desirable in a number of private and public sector roles.<br/><br/>**Why choose a Master of Research (MRes) degree**<br/><br/>An MRes is a master’s degree with a focus on research. The knowledge and expertise you’ll gain will prepare you for doctoral study and a range of non-academic careers that require strong research skills.<br/><br/>**South West Doctoral Training Partnership**<br/><br/>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.<br/><br/>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.<br/><br/>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.<br/><br/>**Learn from experts in their field**<br/><br/>You’ll learn from experts in sociotechnical futures. Their passion, knowledge and research shape their teaching to enhance your learning experience.<br/><br/>**Gain important career skills**<br/><br/>We work to provide you with the tools and support to prepare you for employment and further study.<br/><br/>These include: advanced quantitative and qualitative research skills; bibliographic skills; and basic computing skills, such as word processing, spreadsheet creation and optimisation, and database management.<br/><br/>**Graduate prospects**<br/><br/>There is increasing demand for high-level quantitative, qualitative and computational research skills from a wide range of private and public sector recruiters.<br/><br/>Many firms and government departments are now committed to data-driven decision-making, making use of the increased availability of big data.<br/><br/>This course will equip you with a hybrid skill set that combines quantitative, computational and analytical skills with an understanding of research and enquiry in the context of sociotechnical futures.<br/><br/>Upon completion of this course, you’ll be prepared for specialist roles related to the adoption and use of digital technologies. These may include policy, regulatory, and governance-related roles across a range of sectors.<br/><br/>This MRes also equips you to go into further study at PhD level.