Course Description This programme offers an opportunity to develop analytical skills, an interdisciplinary knowledge base, and a practical understanding of research fields. The areas covered reflect the teaching and research expertise of the School. Pathways based in the School of Social Sciences Students may apply for one of six pathways through the MSc/PgDip in Social Science Research Methods that are based in the School of Social Sciences. These pathways are: * Criminology * Science and Technology Studies * Education * Social Policy * Social Work * Sociology Taught modules are divided into core modules (Research Design; Quantitative and Qualitative Methods; Contemporary Social Theory; Study Skills), and Specialist Modules (depending on the pathway - these include Evidence and Evidence-Based Policy and Practice; Critical Debates in Education; Strategies and Methods in Criminological Research; Theories and Issues about Globalisation; Strategies for Applied Research; Social Policy Analysis and Research), and a wide range of Optional Modules. On successful completion of the coursework component, students prepare a dissertation (of a maximum 20,000 words) to be submitted by mid-September. Pathways based in other Schools As part of the MSc/PgDip in Social Science Research Methods, students are able to opt for pathways from other academic Schools within the University. These additional pathways are: * Area and Development Studies (School of European Languages, Translation and Politics) * Economic and Social History (School of History and Geography) * Environmental Planning (School of Planning and Geography) * Management and Business Studies (Cardiff Business School) * Political Science and International Studies (School of European Languages, Translation and Politics) * Psychology (School of Psychology) * Socio-legal (Cardiff Law School) Students who wish to apply for one of the pathways run by Schools other than the School of Social Sciences should click here and select the pathway that they wish to apply for.

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