Our MRes programme enables you to develop research skills shared across the social sciences while specialising in your own area through one of our focused courses. As a student on the programme, you study approaches and methods available to social science researchers, and explore their implications, limits and uses. The programme supports students from a wide range of disciplines including sociology, psychology, business, cultural studies, education, health, planning and the built environment. It offers • training in social science research methodologies and methods • a vocationally relevant qualification for research-oriented work • the opportunity to upgrade specific skills if you are already an established researcher Through designing and conducting research you gain technical competence in research and evaluation. You also develop theoretical knowledge and critical understanding of research epistemologies and methods, and the ethical issues involved in social research. As you accrue academic credits you are able to obtain a post graduate certificate and diploma in research methods. All routes include shared modules in qualitative research and quantitative research, together with modules specific to theory and research design in your area of interest. You can take individual modules as stand-alone courses, or combine them to gain a postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma. The full MRes includes a research-based dissertation in your chosen area, which may become a pilot study towards a PhD.

This programme is designed to equip you with the skills to carry out independent research. To do this you need to consider the research problem and associated ethical issues then select a suitable approach. The skills and knowledge you gain are in great demand by many organisations.