Masters Degrees (Social Science)

Our highly sought-after graduates benefit from a programme that integrates training in identifying, framing and effectively researching social problems with a leading computational approach to social science.

Furthermore, we are home to the Centre for Research in Social Simulation (CRESS) and its world-leading expertise in agent-based modelling.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

Interest in simulation has grown rapidly in the social sciences. New methods have been developed to tackle this complexity. This programme will integrate traditional and new methods, to model complexity, evolution and the adaptation of social systems.

These new methods are having an increasing influence on policy research through a growing recognition that many social problems are insufficiently served by traditional policy modelling approaches.

The Masters in Social Science and Complexity will equip you to develop expertise in the methods necessary to tackle complex, policy-relevant, real-world social problems through a combination of traditional and computational social science methods, and with a particular focus on policy relevance.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

This programme is studied full-time over one academic year and part-time over two academic years. It consists of eight taught modules and a dissertation. The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.
-Data Analysis
-Field Methods
-Computational Modelling
-Theory Model Data
-Modelling the Complex World
-Policy Modelling
-Theory and Method
-Statistical Modelling
-Evaluation Research
-Dissertation

EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME

The main aims of the programme are to:
-Provide an appropriate training for students preparing MPhil/PhD theses, or for 
 students going on to employment involving the use of social science and policy research
-Provide training that fully integrates social science, policy modelling and computational methodologies to a high standard
-Provide training resulting in students with high quality analytic, methodological, computational and communication skills

PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOMES
The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills, qualities and other attributes in the following areas:
-Develop skills in tackling real world policy problems with creativity and sound methodological judgment
-Cover the principles of research design and strategy, including formulating research 
questions or hypotheses and translating these into practicable research designs and models
-Introduce students to the methodological and epistemological issues surrounding research in the social sciences in general and computational modelling in particular
-Develop skills in programming in NetLogo for the implementation of agent-based models for the modelling of social phenomena
-Develop skills in the acquisition and analysis of social science data
-Make students aware of the range of secondary data available and equip them to evaluate its utility for their research
-Develop skills in searching for and retrieving information, using library and Internet resources
-Develop skills in the use of SPSS, and in the main statistical techniques of data analysis, including multivariate analysis
-Develop skills in the use of CAQDAS software for the analysis of qualitative data
-Develop skills in writing, in the preparation of a research proposal, in the presentation ofresearch results and in verbal communication
-Help students to prepare their research results for wider dissemination, in the form of seminar papers, conference presentations, reports and publications, in a form suitable for a range of audiences, including academics, stakeholders, policy makers, professionals, service users and the general public

Knowledge and understanding
-Show advanced knowledge of qualitative, quantitative and computational methodologies in the social science
-Show advanced knowledge of modelling methodologies, model construction and analysis
-Show critical understanding of methodological and epistemological challenges of social science and computer modelling
-Show critical awareness and understanding of the methodological implications of a range of sociological theories and approaches
-Show understanding the use and value of a wide range of different research approaches across the quantitative and qualitative spectra
-Show advanced knowledge in data collection, analysis and data driven modelling
-Show advanced knowledge of policy relevant social science research and modelling
-Show advanced understanding of the policy process and the role of social science and modelling therein
-Show advanced knowledge of statistical modelling

Intellectual / cognitive skills
-Systematically formulate researchable problems; analyse and conceptualise issues; critically appreciate alternative approaches to research; report to a range of audiences
-Conceptual development of Social Science and Complexity models to creatively enhance the understanding of social phenomena
-Integration of qualitative, quantitative and computational data
-Judgement of problem-methodology match
-Analyse qualitative and quantitative data drawn both from ‘real world’ and ‘virtual world’ environments, using basic and more advanced techniques, and draw warranted conclusions
-Develop original insights, questions, analyses and interpretations in respect of research questions
-Critically evaluate the range of approaches to research

Professional practical skills
-Formulate, design, plan, carry out and report on a complete research project
-Use the range of traditional and computational techniques employed in sociological research
-Ability to produce well founded, data driven and validated computational models
-Generate both quantitative and qualitative data through an array of techniques, and select techniques of data generation on appropriate methodological bases
-Employ a quantitative (SPSS) and qualitative software package to manage and analyse data
-Plan, manage and execute research as part of a team and as a sole researcher
-Ability to communicate research findings models in social science and policy relevant ways
-Ability to manage independent research

Key / transferable skills
-Communicate complex ideas, principles and theories by oral, written and visual means
-Apply computational modelling methodology to complex social issues in appropriate ways
-Creativity in approaching complex problems and a the ability of communicating and justifying problem solutions
-Apply computing skills for computational modelling, research instrument design, data analysis, and report writing and presentation
-Work to deadlines and within work schedules
-Work independently or as part of a team
-Demonstrate experience of a work environment

PLACEMENTS

On the MSc Social Science and Complexity, we offer the opportunity to take a research placement during the Easter vacation. This will provide you with first-hand experience of real-life policy research in action.

Organisations in which placements might be possible are a number of consultancies (e.g. Sandtable), government departments (e.g. Defra) and academic research centres (e.g. Centre for Policy Modelling at Manchester).

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Computational methods and especially computer-based simulations, are becoming increasingly important in academic social science and policy making.

Graduates might find career opportunities in government departments, consultancies, government departments, consultancies, NGOs and academia.

GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES

We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.

In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.

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The Environmental Social Science programme is interdepartmental and benefits from expertise found across the Faculty of Social Sciences.

Social science perspectives are crucial to understanding and solving environmental problems. Human behaviour produces many elements of the ‘natural’ environment, from landscapes to floods and famines. Local and national policies and international agreements regulate the environmental practices of corporations, governments and households. The social sciences have a great deal to contribute to understanding what have become defined as environmental issues, and what measures can most effectively tackle them.

Environmental Social Science draws on contributions from the study of Anthropology, Conservation and Ecology, Law, Social Policy and Sociology.

Visit the website https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/13/environmental-social-science

Course structure

This interdisciplinary programme introduces you to social science perspectives on environmental issues. It draws on sociology, politics, social policy, anthropology and law. The dissertation is a chance for you to make a specialised study of a topic that interests you, and we encourage first-hand research. The programme is suitable for graduates with a wide range of first degrees.

Modules

You take compulsory modules alongside optional modules of your choice. Modules may include:

• Social Science perspectives on environmental issues
• Ethnobiological knowledge systems 
• Social and political movements
• Politics and sociology of the environment

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

• Introduce you to the differing perspectives on environmental issues of the various social science disciplines
• Develop your knowledge and understanding of environmental issues from a social science perspective
• Acquaint you with the methods and procedures of social scientific investigation
• Give you a practical introduction to research design so as to enable you to conceive and execute a social scientific research project on an environmental topic, whether as part of further academic work or in the course of non-academic employment with any of a variety of public agencies and private corporations.

Careers

Building on Kent’s success as the region’s leading institution for student employability, we place considerable emphasis on you gaining specialist knowledge in your chosen subject alongside core transferable skills. We ensure that you develop the skills and competences that employers are looking for including: research and analysis; policy development and interpretation; independent thought; writing and presentation, as well as time management and leadership skills. You also become fully involved in the professional research culture of the School. A postgraduate degree in the area of environmental social science is a particularly flexible and valuable qualification that can lead to many exciting opportunities and professional advancement.

Our graduates obtain a range of transferable skills and report high levels of being in employment or further study within six months of graduation across all of our degree programmes.

Over 98% of Kent's postgraduate students who graduated in 2016 were in work or further study within six months. Recent graduates have gone on to pursue careers in environmental law, community projects, research, education, advocacy and social policy at both local and central government levels.

How to apply: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/apply/

Why study at the University of Kent

We offer inspirational teaching and supervision alongside first-class library and IT facilities. You also benefit from our high-impact research in all subjects. Whatever you are looking to study, Kent provides a dynamic and challenging environment for your postgraduate studies.

• Kent was awarded gold, the highest rating, in the UK Government’s Teaching Excellence Framework
• Kent is ranked 21st in the Times Higher Education (THE) ‘Table of Tables’ 2017
• Kent is ranked 25th in the Complete University Guide 2018
• Kent is ranked 22nd in the Guardian University Guide 2018
• 42% of our academics are from overseas and we have students representing 158 nationalities
• In the most recent research rankings, 97% of research at Kent was found to be of international quality (REF 2014)
• Kent is ranked 17th in the UK* for research intensity and research output (REF 2014)
• Find out more: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/why-kent/

* of 122 universities, not including specialist institutions

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The MSc in Research Methods for Social Science and Health provides in depth knowledge and critical understanding of: (1) epistemology, methodology and ethics in the social sciences; (2) principles of research design and methodology commonly used in health and social science research; (3) research governance and the management of risk; (4) quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection, analysis and reporting.

Key benefits

• Integrates social science with King’s leading health schools and their internationally recognized excellence in biomedical and health research and training.

• Taught by a dynamic and research-led team of academics with a wide range of disciplinary and methodological expertise, providing students with first hand exposure to advanced academic research.

• Situated in the heart of London, providing unrivalled opportunities to engage with the worlds of policymaking, non-governmental agencies and biomedical research.

• Provides an open and supportive learning environment, fostering independent and critical learners and researchers.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/research-methods-for-social-science-and-health-msc-pg-dip-pg-cert.aspx

Course detail

- Description -

Social Science, Health and Medicine at King’s is a unique interdisciplinary department founded in 2012 with a mission to address the changing landscape of health and medicine from a social science perspective. Working closely with colleagues in biomedicine and the life sciences, it explores the complex social determinants of health, illness and ageing, and the ways in which advances in biomedicine and biotechnology are changing expectations about life and health, and the social and ethical challenges of global inequalities in health, illness and medical care.

The programme draws on departmental research first hand, and benefits from close connections with King’s internationally renowned health schools. Taught by a dedicated team of experienced academics, the programme introduces students to epistemology and ethics in the social sciences, and provides foundational training in research design and governance, and in quantitative and qualitative methodology. It offers a variety of options for advanced and more specialized training. The dissertation forms an integral part of the programme, enabling students to put the knowledge and research skills they’ve gained into practice on a topic of their own choosing. Through the programme students develop a critical understanding of research, a variety of methods and their practical application in health and social sciences.

- Course purpose -

The postgraduate programme provides an excellent foundation for understanding, conducting and using social science research in policy, medicine and healthcare. It is designed for researchers, professionals and practitioners seeking to develop their understanding and practical application of research methodologies, especially those from health, policy, NGO and government sectors, and those who manage and/or commission research.

- Course format and assessment -

Combination of lectures, tutorial classes, independent study, optional modules, attendance at regular seminars and colloquium, and an extended research project.

Assessment encompasses a mix of both formal and informal assessment methods, including oral presentation, extended essays both formative and summative, unseen examination, and a dissertation.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

About Postgraduate Study at King’s College London:

To study for a postgraduate degree at King’s College London is to study at the city’s most central university and at one of the top 20 universities worldwide (2015/16 QS World Rankings). Graduates will benefit from close connections with the UK’s professional, political, legal, commercial, scientific and cultural life, while the excellent reputation of our MA and MRes programmes ensures our postgraduate alumni are highly sought after by some of the world’s most prestigious employers. We provide graduates with skills that are highly valued in business, government, academia and the professions.

Scholarships & Funding:

All current PGT offer-holders and new PGT applicants are welcome to apply for the scholarships. For more information and to learn how to apply visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/pg/funding/sources

Free language tuition with the Modern Language Centre:

If you are studying for any postgraduate taught degree at King’s you can take a module from a choice of over 25 languages without any additional cost. Visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/mlc

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The MRes in Critical Social Science at Liverpool John Moores University critically combines the disciplines that inform society, organisations and institutions relevant to criminology, geography, media, culture, communication, politics and sociology.

•Complete this masters degree full time (one year)
•An interdisciplinary MRes bringing together staff from Criminology, Geography, Sociology and Media, Culture, Communication
•Fosters a creative and innovative postgraduate culture
•Critical approach with a research focus
•Can lead to doctorate study in social sciences
•Secure the research training demanded by the ESRC/AHRC for postgraduate funding

This Critical Social Science MRes programme will equip you with a range of knowledge and skills, allowing you to complete an independent research project, and become an expert in social analysis through the interdisciplinary application of critical theory.

The programme's structure, content and approach emerge from the expertise on offer in the School of Humanities and Social Science and LJMU's commitment to the interdisciplinary study of Critical Social Science.

Specifically, the MRes represents a bespoke collaboration between the disciplines of Criminology, Geography, Media, Culture and Communication and Sociology. It fosters a creative and innovative research culture, which crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries and builds on the distinctive, critical approaches of each of the disciplines.

You will prepare for and conduct a piece of independent research, interrogating a particular area of theory, policy and/or practice, within one of five interdisciplinary pathways:

•crime, criminalisation and social harm
•ecology, environment and activism
•consumption, identity and mass media
•health, disease and social wellbeing
•power inequality and the state

Our dynamic, professional and experienced staff excel in innovative and exciting research which contributes to the teaching and learning methods you will experience. Good working relationships with Merseyside employers and organisations also frequently benefit the academic and personal career development of our students.

What you will study on this degree

Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.

Critical social science research proposition and development

Engages you in independent and critical thinking, and develops and applies theoretical concepts in critical social sciences

Research Project in critical social science

Assesses your ability to present, in scholarly form, a sustained piece of research which demonstrates knowledge and understanding of a relevant field and appropriate methodologies to organise material into a clear and relevant argument

Professional development for researchers in arts, professional and social studies

Provides you with professional guidance geared to the conduct and dissemination of research

Research methods for arts, professional and social studies

Introduces you to library, bibliographic, online and other facilities necessary for postgraduate research; assisting you in recognising and applying appropriate strategies for developing a research project

Further guidance on modules

The information listed in the section entitled ‘What you will study’ is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification.

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Our MSc or PGDip in Social Science Research Methods aims to provide advanced training in research methods across the full range of the social sciences.

You will be provided with a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies, of the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing social scientific data. You will also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated.

The course pathways have ESRC recognition and they each provide the appropriate training basis for proceeding to a PhD. These programmes provide extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study, the application of social research expertise for occupational career development, and the pursuit of substantive areas of interest at postgraduate level.

International Relations pathway:

The Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science Research Methods (International Relations) aims to provide advanced training in research methods. This programme will offer you an opportunity to develop analytical skills, an interdisciplinary knowledge base, and a practical understanding of research in International Relations.

This programme will provide you with:

• A thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies.
• Information on the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist.
• The principal methods of analysing social scientific data.

You will also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated.

In order to have meaningful contact with research being conducted by staff in the School, you will be linked to a research group. The Politics and International Relations pathways are closely associated with the operation of the School’s research units and centres. The International Relations pathway is closely associated with the research activities of the International Studies Research Unit (ISRU) which encompasses a wide range of areas.

Distinctive features

You will be supervised by academic staff with considerable expertise in their chosen fields. These staff members are actively involved in disseminating research via publications in academic and practitioner journals, books and presentations to conferences. Many staff members are involved in editing or reviewing for scholarly management journals.

Structure

• PGDip

The PGDip can be completed in one year with full-time study and in two years by part-time study.

You will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module.

In all modules you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

For a list of modules for the FULL-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-international-relations-pgdip

For a list of the modules for the PART-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-international-relations-pgdip-part-time

• MSc

The MSc can be completed in one year with full-time study and in three years by part-time study.

The requirements are the same as the PGDip PLUS you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words following successful completion of the taught component, The 60-credit dissertation component requires independent study. You will choose your dissertation topic in agreement with your supervisor.

For a list of modules for the FULL-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-international-relations-msc

For a list of the modules for the PART-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-international-relations-msc-part-time

Teaching

Your programme will be made up of scheduled learning activities (including lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions) and guided independent study.

You will be expected to actively engage in all the educational activities on your programme of study, to prepare for and attend all scheduled teaching activities, and continue your development as an independent and self-directed learner.

Career Prospects

This programme provides knowledge and expertise suitable for careers in research and development, business, market studies, public agencies at international, national and local levels, education, teaching and other public services work, and voluntary organisations.

It also provides appropriate training for proceeding to a PhD.

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Who is this course for?

Our Graduate Diploma of Social Sciences is designed for graduates from other disciplines who wish to pursue further studies.

Flexibility and professional development

The flexibility of this course means, after consultation with the course coordinator, you can select a course of study from one of the discipline areas, or you can choose to study an approved combination of these or other disciplines. These areas of study include:
*Anthropology
*Archaeology
*History
*Political Science
*Sociology.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Social Science, graduates will be able to:
*Demonstrate coherent and advanced knowledge of social theory, practice and professional ethics in at least one discipline in the social sciences
*Demonstrate knowledge of research principles and methods in at least one discipline in the social sciences
*Analyse critically and evaluate social systems, institutions, structures and/or practices
*Review, analyse, consolidate and synthesise perspectives, arguments and sources of qualitative and/or quantitative data pertinent to complex social, political, historical, economic, environmental and/or cultural issues, particularly those related to quality of life in the tropics worldwide
*Present a clear and coherent exposition of research to a variety of audiences through advanced proficiency in written and spoken *English language and, where appropriate, numeracy skills
*Design, plan and execute a social science research project with some independence
*Apply social theory to research, demonstrating advanced understanding of the relationship between theory and practice in some areas in at least one discipline in the social sciences
*Respectfully and responsibly apply knowledge of diversity and difference among people, especially vulnerable and Indigenous peoples, in research and scholarship.

Award title

GRADUATE DIPLOMA OF SOCIAL SCIENCE (GDipSocSc)

Course articulation

Students who successfully complete the Graduate Diploma of Social Science and who obtain at least a Distinction for their Research Dissertation (SS4100 and SS4101) are eligible to apply for entry to the Master of Philosophy [Society and Culture] or the Doctor of Philosophy [Society and Culture].
Students who successfully complete the Graduate Diploma of Social Science are eligible to apply for entry to the Master of Social Science (Coursework).

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 1 - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 6.0 (no component lower than 5.5), OR
*TOEFL – 550 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 4.0), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 79 (minimum writing score of 19), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 57

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English language proficiency requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 1 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Why JCU?

Students will have access to The Cairns Institute – an important centre for national and international scholars. It brings together the expertise and intellectual resources of more than 20 academic disciplines, creating a uniquely robust and relevant research, consulting, training and teaching hub for Northern Australia, South and South-East Asia and the Pacific.

Application deadlines

*1st February for commencement in semester one (February)
*1st July for commencement in semester two (mid-year/July)

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School Direct (Tuition Fee) is a route into teaching at both primary and secondary levels. Trainees join other student teachers on the established Social Science PGCE programme at the UCL Institute of Education (IOE), whilst undertaking their teaching experience at their host school or alliance.

Degree information

We draw on current research at the IOE and elsewhere to inform a student's social science teaching, encouraging them to engage with recent debates, literature and policy in the field. Our underlying aim is to develop students as reflective and highly skilled teachers. As a 14-19 programme, there is an explicit focus on teaching examination classes in an interactive way.

Students undertake two Master’s-level (level 7) modules of 30 credits each, totaling 60 credits. These can be carried forward onto full Master’s programmes at the IOE.

The Secondary PGCE consists of three core modules: two Master’s-level modules, which are assessed through written assignments, and the Professional Practice module, which is assessed by the observation of practical teaching in placement schools.

Completion of the Professional Practice module and the two level 7 (Master’s level) modules (60 credits) will result in the award of a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE). Completion of the Professional Practice module and one or two level 6 (undergraduate/Bachelor’s level) modules, will lead to the Professional Graduate Certificate of Education (PgCE). There are no optional modules for this programme.

Core modules
-Subject Studies (30 Master's-level credits)
-Wider Educational Studies (30 Master's-level credits)
-Professional Practice


Placement
You will spend most of your time (120 days) in schools, working with mentors who support you through your two school placements. Social Science Student Teachers will teach their main social science subject (usually sociology and/or psychology) at AS and possibly A level. At GCSE, most student teachers teach sociology and some teach psychology. In some placements there are opportunities to contribute to relevant vocational qualifications and Key Stage 3 humanities.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered via keynote lectures, subject lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and directed study days at the IOE, as well as time spent in placement at the host school or alliance. Assessment is by the observation of practical teaching, assignments and a portfolio (which links into continuing professional development in the induction year).

Careers

Graduates of this programme are currently working across a broad range of areas. Some are working as sociology and psychology teachers, while others have jobs as heads of department and heads of year. Graduates in this area can also be found working as senior leaders and teachers in charge of subject.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Sociology Teacher, Unspecified Secondary School
-Religious Studies and Psychology Teacher, Unspecified Secondary School
-Psychology Teacher, Unspecified Secondary School

Employability
A PGCE from the IOE carries considerable currency in schools, which alongside the quality of training you receive, puts you in a strong position in the employment market. Last year, all those students who sought employment in a school were successful. We expect 100% success rate in gaining a post in a school by the end of the year.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The Social Science PGCE prepares students to teach the social sciences across the 14–19 age range in a flexible and exciting way. Tutors are committed to promoting interactive teaching and learning in their sessions; a collaborative ethos is encouraged so that PGCE students share materials, resources and ideas.

Tutors on the Social Science PGCE are skilled classroom practitioners with extensive experience in secondary schools and colleges, as well as in school leadership, inspection, educational research and consultancy.

Students participate in a range of lectures and seminars designed to enhance their development as a teacher. These highly interactive sessions will cover how children learn, assessment, lesson planning, behaviour management and subject-specific matters.

During their teaching practice placements, students benefit from our partnership with over 200 secondary schools and colleges in Greater London and beyond, which enables each of our students to become a skilled and confident teacher in their chosen subject specialism.

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Overview

Our MRes in Social Science Research Methods offers subject routes in Criminology, Education, Gerontology, Health Policy, Management, Social Work and Sociology. The programme is designed to provide training in a range of research skills and methodologies essential to the systematic research practice demanded in many professional environments, or to pave the way to further postgraduate study. As such the programme is open to graduates looking to pursue an academic or research related career and those seeking to enhance their practical social research skills for professional purposes. Modules are taught by experts in their field and will introduce concepts and skills that will enable you to pursue an independent research project of your choice.

The MRes programme requires satisfactory completion of 180 credits, comprised of modules up to 120 credits, plus a 15,000 to 20,000 word dissertation worth 60 credits. Taught modules consist of face to face contact between staff and students, supported by online content, while the independent subject specific training modules and the dissertation are supported by regular individual supervision. There are a broad range of assessment methods to evaluate your analytical abilities and your critical engagement with relevant debates, approaches, theories, scholarship and evidence. These include portfolios, essays, research proposals, reviews, reports, exams, learning plans, pilot studies and the dissertation. Written assignments for taught modules vary in length from 1,500 word reports to 5,000 word personal development portfolios.

See the website https://www.keele.ac.uk/pgtcourses/mressocialscienceresearchmethods/

Course Aims

The general aims of the programme are as follows:
- To equip participants with a ‘toolkit’ for research design, consisting of a range of social science research methods and strategies
- To explore in detail the philosophical assumptions underlying contemporary research in the social sciences
- To develop the qualities needed to evaluate critically social science research
- To provide practice in a range of transferable skills, improve existing skills and enhance employability, whether in an academic context or beyond
- To apply more general methods and philosophies to the student’s own discipline and to gain an in-depth understanding of the current issues related to that discipline

Course Content

Those taking taught modules only, without producing a dissertation, may qualify for a postgraduate

award (30 credits), a post graduate certificate (60) credits or a postgraduate diploma (120 credits).

You will study the following core modules:

• Research Skills and Researcher Development
• Principles of Social Science Research
• Quantitative Research and Data Analysis
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Subject-Specific Training I
• Dissertation

The following is a list of indicative elective modules:

• Subject-Specific Training II
• Advanced Quantitative Data Analysis
• Advanced Qualitative Research Methods
• Ethnographic Research

The University offers this social science MRes in the following disciplines:
- Criminology
- Education
- Geography
- Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations
- Management
- Sociology
- Social Policy
- Social Work

Teaching & Assessment

The programme is assessed through a broad range of methods of assessment, including: portfolio, essay, research proposal, review, report, exam, learning plan, pilot study and dissertation. These enable assessment of the student’s analytical abilities, and of the student’s evaluation of particular debates, material and evidence. The research proposal, the review, the pilot study and the dissertation facilitate assessment of the student’s ability to select, apply and evaluate appropriate research methodologies in their chosen field of studies. The written assignments vary in length from 1,500 word reports through to 5,000 word personal development portfolios. Students must pass all the taught modules before they may proceed to the dissertation, which involves writing a dissertation of 15-20,000 words.

Additional Costs

Apart from additional costs for text books, inter-library loans and potential overdue library fines we do not anticipate any additional costs for this post-graduate programme.

Find information on Scholarships here - http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentfunding/bursariesscholarships/

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Our MSc/PGDip in Social Science Research Methods aims to provide advanced training in research methods across the full range of the social sciences.

You will be provided with a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies, of the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing social scientific data. You will also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated.

The course pathways have ESRC recognition and they each provide the appropriate training basis for proceeding to a PhD. These programmes provide extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study, the application of social research expertise for occupational career development, and the pursuit of substantive areas of interest at postgraduate level.

Environmental Planning pathway:

This program provides the opportunity to acquire generic research skills required by all social science researchers, as well as the subject-specific requirements of the ESRC’s Environmental Planning Subject Area Panel.

Structure

Students can complete either a PGDip or MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Environmental Planning). Both routes can be completed in one year by full-time study. For part-time study, the PGDip can be completed in two years and the MSc can be completed in three years.

You will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module.

• PGDip

For a list of modules for the FULL-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-environmental-planning-pgdip

For a list of the modules for the PART-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-environmental-planning-pgdip-part-time

• MSc

For a list of modules for the FULL-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-environmental-planning-msc

For a list of the modules for the PART-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-environmental-planning-msc-part-time

Teaching

Your programme will be made up of scheduled learning activities (including lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions) and guided independent study.

You will be expected to actively engage in all the educational activities on your programme of study, to prepare for and attend all scheduled teaching activities, and continue your development as an independent and self-directed learner.

Assessment

You will have to successfully complete the taught component which comprises of 120 credits.

For the MSc, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words

Career Prospects

This programme provides knowledge and expertise suitable for careers in research and development, business, market studies, public agencies at international, national and local levels, education, teaching and other public services work, and voluntary organisations.

It also provides appropriate training for proceeding to a PhD.

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This MRes programme provides social science graduates from any discipline with the opportunity to extend their research skills to advanced postgraduate level.

It is ideally suited to students who enjoyed the final year of their degree and are thinking of pursuing academic work, but it is also appropriate for working professionals who are looking to enhance their career opportunities.

During the course, you receive a thorough grounding in qualitative and quantitative research, research ethics and the philosophy of the social sciences, topics which altogether form the basis of your self-directed research project. We offer specialist supervision in sociology, criminology, social policy, social work, politics, psychology and anthropology.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for this course. Please click the link below for more information.
https://www.brighton.ac.uk/studying-here/fees-and-finance/postgraduate/index.aspx

Syllabus

The taught components of the course - ie the Research Methods and Principles of Social Research modules - take place across one semester, and you attend a weekly session for each module. The dissertation takes place across the year and allows for a flexible mode of study based on one-to-one supervision sessions.

Modules:

• Research Methods in the Social Sciences
• Principles of Social Research
• MRes Dissertation

Research

All research in the School of Applied Social Science is carried out under the auspices of the Social Science Policy and Research Centre (SSPARC).

SSPARC offers a vibrant research culture for staff and students working both within and across the disciplines of sociology, psychology, social policy, politics and criminology, as well as the practice-based fields of social work, counselling, psychotherapy and substance misuse.

Much of our research is undertaken collaboratively with agencies, organisations, groups and individuals, both in the local community and wider society, to ensure that our research has relevance and impact beyond the academy.
Research in SSPARC covers three broad and overlapping research themes or 'clusters':

• Care, health and wellbeing
• Crime, resistance and security
• Culture, identity and society

Careers and employability

The Social Science MRes provides the necessary research training for doctoral work. It also enhances your career opportunities in areas including central and local government, non-governmental organisations, social research, teaching, journalism and the media.

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The Social Science PGCE prepares students to teach the social sciences across the 14–19 age range in a flexible and exciting way. Tutors are committed to promoting interactive teaching and learning in their sessions; a collaborative ethos is encouraged so that PGCE students share materials, resources and ideas.

Degree information

We draw on current research at the IOE and elsewhere to inform a student's social science teaching, encouraging them to engage with recent debates, literature and policy in the field. Our underlying aim is to develop students as reflective and highly skilled teachers. As a 14-19 programme, there is an explicit focus on teaching examination classes in an interactive way.

Students undertake two level 7 (Master’s-level) modules of 30 credits each, totaling 60 credits. These can be carried forward onto full Master’s programmes at the IOE.

The Secondary PGCE consists of three core modules: two Master’s-level (level 7) modules, which are assessed through written assignments, and the Professional Practice module, which is assessed by the observation of practical teaching in placement schools.

Successful completion of the Professional Practice module and successful completion of the two modules (60 credits) at level 7 will result in the award of a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE). Where less than 60 credits are achieved at level 7 but are successfully passed at level 6 a Professional Graduate Certificate of Education (PgCE) will be awarded. There are no optional modules for this programme.

Core modules
-Subject Studies (30 Master's-level credits)
-Wider Educational Issues (30 Master's-level credits)
-Professional Practice

Placement
You will spend most of your time (120 days) in schools, working with religious education mentors who support you through your two school placements. Social Science Student Teachers will teach their main social science subject (usually sociology and/or psychology) at AS and possibly A level. At GCSE, most student teachers teach sociology and some teach psychology. In some placements there are opportunities to contribute to relevant vocational qualifications and Key Stage 3 humanities.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered via keynote lectures, subject lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and directed study days at the IOE, as well as time spent in placements. Assessment is by practical teaching, assignments and portfolio tasks.

Students will also record their progress in a Career Entry and Development Profile statement. This will form part of an ongoing portfolio charting the student's continuing professional development.

Careers

Graduates of this programme are currently working across a broad range of areas. Some are working as sociology and psychology teachers, while others have jobs as heads of department and heads of year. Graduates in this area can also be found working as senior leaders and teachers in charge of subject.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Sociology Teacher, Unspecified Secondary School
-Sociology and Psychology Teacher, Unspecified Secondary School
-Politics and History Teacher, Unspecified Secondary chool
-Psychology Teacher, Unspecified Academy
-Humanities Teacher, Unspecified Secondary School

Employability
A PGCE from the IOE carries considerable currency in schools which, alongside the quality of training you receive, puts you in a strong position in the employment market. Last year, all those students who sought employment in a school were successful. We expect 100% success rate in gaining a post in a school by the end of the year.

Why study this degree at UCL?

Tutors on the Social Science PGCE are skilled classroom practitioners with extensive experience in secondary schools and colleges, as well as in school leadership, inspection, educational research and consultancy.

Students participate in a range of lectures and seminars designed to enhance their development as a teacher. These highly interactive sessions will cover how children learn, assessment, lesson planning, behaviour management and subject-specific matters.

During their teaching practice placements, students benefit from our partnership with over 200 secondary schools and colleges in Greater London and beyond, which enables each of our students to become a skilled and confident teacher in their chosen subject specialism.

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Our PgDip / MSc in Social Science Research Methods aims to provide advanced training in research methods across the full range of the social sciences. 

You will be provided with a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies, of the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing social scientific data. You will also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated.

The course pathways have ESRC recognition and they each provide the appropriate training basis for proceeding to a PhD. These programmes provide extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study, the application of social research expertise for occupational career development, and the pursuit of substantive areas of interest at postgraduate level. 

Education pathway:

Research training in Education builds on the internationally recognised research carried out by our academic staff. You will benefit from this specialist expertise in education research, as well as from our interdisciplinary profile and the wider Cardiff University Research and Graduate School (RGS) in the Social Sciences, which acts as a focal point for students from social science departments throughout the University.

You will be encouraged to attend and participate in the activities of our many research groups. Education students are formally located into at least one of the following research groups:

Education Research Group
Labour Research Group
Childhood
Ethnography, Culture and Interpretive Analysis
Sexualities and Gender
Work, Employability and Labour Markets
Culture, Imagination & Practice

These groups hold regular programmes of meetings which provide opportunities for researchers to share ideas and discuss issues in the policy and practice of education-related research.

Structure

• PgDip

The course can be completed in one year with full-time study or in two years by part-time study.

You will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module.
In all modules, you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

Modules:

Developing Core Research Skills
Foundations of Social Science Research
Qualitative Research Methods
Quantitative Research Methods
Research Applications
Debates in Educational Research

• MSc

The course can be completed in one year with full-time study or in three years by part-time study.

You will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module. In all modules, you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words. The 60-credit dissertation component requires independent study. You will choose your dissertation topic in agreement with your supervisor.

Modules:

Same modules as PgDip PLUS Dissertation (compulsory).

Teaching

Your programme will be made up of scheduled learning activities (including lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions) and guided independent study.

You will be expected to actively engage in all the educational activities on your programme of study, to prepare for and attend all scheduled teaching activities, and continue your development as an independent and self-directed learner.

Assessment

You will have to successfully complete the taught component which comprises of 120 credits.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words (MSc only).

Career Prospects

This programme provides knowledge and expertise suitable for careers in research and development, business, market studies, public agencies at international, national and local levels, education, teaching and other public services work, and voluntary organisations.

It also provides appropriate training for proceeding to a PhD.

Read less

Our MSc in Social Science Research Methods aims to provide advanced training in research methods across the full range of the social sciences. 

You will be provided with a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies, of the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing social scientific data. You will also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated.

The course pathways have ESRC recognition and they each provide the appropriate training basis for proceeding to a PhD. These programmes provide extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study, the application of social research expertise for occupational career development, and the pursuit of substantive areas of interest at postgraduate level. 

Science and Technology Studies pathway:

The Science and Technology Studies pathway through the Social Science Research Methods MSc is suitable for all students with an interest in the social dimensions of science and technology. We have research expertise in a range of substantive and methodological approaches and can offer supervision and training for students interested in:

• Sociology of science and technology, including natural sciences, biotechnology, medicine and genomics
• Nature, distribution and classification of expertise
• Public understanding of, and engagement with, science and technology
• Use of scientific advice and other forms of expertise in decision-making

Structure

The course can be completed in one year with full-time study or in three years by part-time study.

You will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module. In all modules, you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words. The 60-credit dissertation component requires independent study. You will choose your dissertation topic in agreement with your supervisor.

Core modules:

Developing Core Research Skills
Foundations of Social Science Research
Qualitative Research Methods
Quantitative Research Methods
Research Applications
Introduction to Science, Technology and Society
Dissertation

Teaching

Your programme will be made up of scheduled learning activities (including lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions) and guided independent study.

You will be expected to actively engage in all the educational activities on your programme of study, to prepare for and attend all scheduled teaching activities, and continue your development as an independent and self-directed learner.

Assessment

You will have to successfully complete the taught component which comprises of 120 credits.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words

Career prospects

This programme provides knowledge and expertise suitable for careers in research and development, business, market studies, public agencies at international, national and local levels, education, teaching and other public services work, and voluntary organisations.

It also provides appropriate training for proceeding to a PhD.

Read less

OurPgDip/MSc in Social Science Research Methods aims to provide advanced training in research methods across the full range of the social sciences. 

You will be provided with a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies, of the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing social scientific data. You will also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated.

The course pathways have ESRC recognition and they each provide the appropriate training basis for proceeding to a PhD. These programmes provide extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study, the application of social research expertise for occupational career development, and the pursuit of substantive areas of interest at postgraduate level. 

Social Policy pathway:

Research training on the Social Policy pathway builds on our strong interdisciplinary social science research base. You will have the opportunity to engage with nationally and internationally recognised social policy research and work with academic colleagues with extensive experience of undertaking research with policy-makers, practitioners and stakeholders in a wide variety of settings.

You will be encouraged to attend and participate in the activities of our School's research groups. These groups hold regular meetings, providing you with the opportunity to engage with ongoing and recent research, and to participate in a community of researchers with shared interests.

Structure

• PgDip

The course can be completed in one year with full-time study or in two years by part-time study.

You will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module.
In all modules, you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

Modules:

Developing Core Research Skills
Foundations of Social Science Research
Qualitative Research Methods
Quantitative Research Methods
Research Applications
Citizenship and Social Policy

• MSc

The course can be completed in one year with full-time study or in three years by part-time study.

You will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module. In all modules, you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words. The 60-credit dissertation component requires independent study. You will choose your dissertation topic in agreement with your supervisor.

Modules:

Same modules as PgDip PLUS Dissertation

Teaching

Your programme will be made up of scheduled learning activities (including lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions) and guided independent study.

You will be expected to actively engage in all the educational activities on your programme of study, to prepare for and attend all scheduled teaching activities, and continue your development as an independent and self-directed learner.

Assessment

You will have to successfully complete the taught component which comprises of 120 credits.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words (MSc only).

Career prospects

This programme provides knowledge and expertise suitable for careers in research and development, business, market studies, public agencies at international, national and local levels, education, teaching and other public services work, and voluntary organisations.

It also provides appropriate training for proceeding to a PhD.

Read less

The MRes Social Science Research Methods degree offers an advanced programme of research training. The course is ideal for applicants who are considering going on to study for a PhD.

Your will study core Faculty modules that include generic social science research skills, broad based training in social science research methods, and advanced training in qualitative and quantitative methods.

You will also receive School-based research skills and subject-based training from which you will acquire specialist knowledge that will allow you to apply the basic principles of social science research and design to your own research projects.

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