MSc in Social Science Research Methods
The MSc in Social Science Research Methods provides students with the opportunity to acquire the generic research skills required by all social science researchers; as well as the subject-specific requirements of the Psychology Subject Area Panel. It develops the capacity of students to engage with methodological approaches across the range of social science literatures and equips them to conduct theoretically-informed and empirically robust research within their own area of expertise. The MSc. programme is organised to maximise the opportunities for learning across disciplinary boundaries, whilst maintaining the strengths of disciplinary focus in specialist psychological research.
Enquiries and Further Information
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Katherine Shelton
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Course Content
Students undertake 12 modules. Nine of the modules are core courses which are designed to equip students with generic research skills and the research skills and knowledge specifically designated for researchers in psychology. These include: Research and Study Skills (10 credits); Research Design and Statistics I and II (20 credits); Qualitative Research I and II (20 credits); Seminars in Psychology and Psychological Research Methods I and II (20 credits); and Research in Practice: Quantitative Methods in Psychology I and II (20 credits).
The remaining modules are designed to address specialist research methods or the application of research methods in particular substantive areas. Students select up to three courses to tailor their Masters to their particular training needs. Courses include, but are not limited to: Research Foundations: Core skills, principles and issues involved in language and communication research; Structural and functional neuroimaging; Current debates in psychosocial studies and critical psychology; Evidence and evidence-based policy and practice; Video and conversation analysis, Interviews and interviewing.
The programme culminates in the Dissertation (60 credits), which is submitted in the September following enrolment, completing a full, 12-month programme.
Application Procedure
Applicants should normally have a 2:1 degree or above or an equivalent qualification. Alternatively, they may be considered for admission if they are able to demonstrate that they have held, for a minimum period of two years, a position of responsibility relevant to the programme, or, in exceptional circumstances, be able to demonstrate equivalent skills that are sufficient to meet the demands of the programme.
Where English is not the applicant’s first language, we require an IELTS score of 6:5 or above (or an equivalent English qualification).
Please note
Potential applicants must produce an initial outline description of their intended research topic (typically 500 words, 1 A4 Page) which will form the basis for assessing the application, together with the completed application form and references. The research proposal will also be the means by which applicants are paired with potential supervisors. It is important that your writing is clear and concise, and you use size 12 font.
This can be submitted with the application form or directly to the SSRM Office in 59 Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AT. Sample Research proposals are available from the SSRM Office.
Applications are considered on a rolling basis throughout the academic year but due the popularity of the course, places fill up quickly. Prospective students are advised to submit their application in the spring.
All applications must be approved by the pathway convenor before a student enrols on a specific pathway through the MSc/Diploma in Social Science Research Methods (SSRM).
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