School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

MSc Social Research

Programme code 8201
Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location Plymouth
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Immerse yourself in the social sciences with this interdisciplinary programme, designed to spark curiosity and advance research. Gain hands-on experience in qualitative and quantitative methods, including the analysis and visualisation of ‘big data’. Collaborate with leading academics on real-world projects while developing original research. Whether you intend to use the programme for pursuing a PhD, or a career in social research, this programme equips you with the expertise to make an impact.

Careers with this subject
The onus on independent, supervised study will help to equip you with the knowledge and skills to pursue a career as a professional social researcher (which could involve further study through doctoral research). Research roles can be found in universities, across all tiers of government, and throughout the voluntary and private sectors.
In addition to developing skills associated with the collection, management, and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, you will also develop essential skills in communication, teamwork, and project management. The programme also develops competencies in both problem-solving and critical thinking.
You will recognise the role that technology can play in contemporary research, including the potential offered by Artificial Intelligence. You will also be able to develop and refine your coding skills and create strategies for promoting and disseminating your written work.

Key features
  • Pursue personal research under the supervision of expert, accessible and experienced academic members of staff.
  • Collaborate with staff on established ‘real-world’ research projects, for instance by assisting with data collection and analysis.
  • Personalise broader study and assessment in line with individual research interests.
  • Become immersed in an interdisciplinary learning experience that will enable you to work with students from a variety of subjects and backgrounds.
  • Confidently apply a wide range of skills and competencies, including those associated with the bidding and delivery of social research.

Course details

  • Programme overview

  • The programme begins by outlining the importance of social research, the type of matters that are increasingly being investigated, and the mechanisms through which research is funded and supported. After this, the modules in semester one begin to introduce the different theories, philosophies, and methodologies associated with social research. Exposure will be given to both quantitative and qualitative approaches, including the analysis of big data. Innovative practices concerning the collection and analysis of data will be showcased, drawing from the research and expertise of the School’s extensive team of researchers. You will gain practical experience in writing a research proposal, from the setting of questions and objectives, to reflecting on the merits of using different research tools. You will appreciate the importance of effective project and time management and will develop competencies surrounding the screening of risk. Key interventions for producing ethical research will also be reinforced. Semester one also provides opportunities for field work, for developing skills in using and programming research-related software and working with big and complex datasets. You will understand the importance of delivering impactful research, and develop skills to build your research network.
    Through semester two, you will be introduced to a selection of advanced research tools and methodologies. You will hear about how these have been practised to date and will be encouraged to reflect upon their relevance to your own research. You will undertake an applied, consultancy-style research project that will require you to work to a commercial brief in collaboration with staff. In doing so, you will understand the pre-conditions for project success, such as delivering the project to time and to budget. Offering this authentic, real-life experience will prove useful as you develop your own academic research, actioned primarily through the development and completion of a master’s dissertation project. This project will prove invaluable as you search for your ideal job, or in applications seeking doctoral research. The semester also develops skills in writing, publication planning, and in the dissemination of research activity, for instance, by requiring you to produce a podcast and delivering a conference style presentation.
    The programme uses a variety of teaching and learning methods to deliver a personable and engaging learning experience. Learning will be supported by using small group tutorial discussions, seminars, lectures, field and desk-based research activities, and project work.
    The programme meets the requirements of the Economic and Social Research Council with respect to Level 7 research training, providing appropriate foundations for those wishing to study at Level 8 (PhD). The programme can therefore be taken, in whole or in part, by students funded by the South West Doctoral Training Partnership.

    Core modules

    GEES520
    MSc Dissertation 60 credits

    This is your chance to take on independent, postgraduate-level research project. You get to choose a topic that excites you, work with expert advisors, and dive deep into cutting-edge methods and analysis. You'll challenge ideas, explore new perspectives, and develop real expertise. In the end, you’ll present your findings in a dissertation and showcase your research - proving just how far you’ve come.

    100% Coursework

    GEES536
    Environmental Knowledge: From Field to Stakeholder 20 credits

    This module reviews qualitative and quantitative research methods relevant to professional and academic investigations in the field of policy-making, planning, management and consultancy in the built and natural environments. It encompasses the complete lifecycle of research (design, planning, data collection, knowledge dissemination and application), including stakeholder engagement across these stages.

    100% Coursework

    GEES540
    Social Research: Philosophies and Design

    This module provides a thematic synopsis of social research design. This module provides an overview of research theories, philosophies and methodologies used in contemporary social research. It provides a paradigmatic outline of research in the social sciences, emphasising current thinking and debates.

    GEES541
    Applied Social Research

    This module offers the opportunity to develop and apply research skills in a practical context. It introduces key aspects of the research process and collaborative working. It provides training on the writing of research proposals. It also encourages students to work critically and reflexively in the context of an academic research project.

    GEES542
    Advanced Research Methods

    This module explores contemporary debates in social research methods and data analysis. It also provides opportunities for students to reflect upon the challenges and opportunities of different research techniques in relation to their own research interests.

    MATH517
    Big Data Visualisation and Analytics 20 credits

    Sophisticated techniques are needed to visualize and analyse increasing quantities of Big Data. This module introduces the modern data science techniques and professional software to handle large complex datasets, as well as experience of writing professionally documented code and data analysis reports. Data analysis pipelines, including data cleansing, are used to produce data visualizations and statistical analysis.

    100% Coursework

    PSYC761
    Advanced Research Practice and Data Analysis for Psychology 20 credits

    This module teaches students to communicate their research in a conference-style presentation setting, to work collaboratively and make an impact in their academic and professional life, and to analyse psychological data using best practices for reproducibility and transparency in psychological science.

    70% Coursework

    30% Practicals

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Entry requirements
An upper second class (2:1) honours degree in a relevant social science discipline or overseas equivalent.
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above.
International applicants will be required to provide evidence of their English language ability, for example by achieving an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent, see our English language requirements.

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026
Home N/A £10,700
International N/A £18,950
Part time (Home) N/A £590
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

How to apply

Apply online

When to apply

Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.

Before you apply

Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance.

Disability Inclusion Services

If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides .

International students

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application

Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply' icon on this page).

What happens after I apply?

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Admissions policy

More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.
 
 
 

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