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:
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
Why choose a Master of Research (MRes) degree?
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.
Find out more about why an MRes might be right for you.
South West Doctoral Training Partnership
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.
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.
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.
.Read more about other funding that you may be eligible for.
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.
Social and environmental justice
Explore key contemporary research, theories and empirical examples of the social and economic dynamics and practices surrounding social and environmental justice. Study mainstream and alternative theories and approaches to social and environmental justice, such as: