Social media and other emerging communication technologies are becoming a key aspect of social research practice.

The data they generate contain insights into how entire populations communicate, behave, and interact with each other.

This course provides the practical research skills and conceptual foundations you need to conduct studies in this new field.

Assessment and feedback

Core modules will be assessed by a mixture of ‘open’ essays (where an assignment is prepared in your own time and handed in) and presentations.

Open assessments are released early in the term so you can select one or more essay titles to read around the topic and plan your chosen essay.

Towards the end of your studies, you'll complete a 15,000-word dissertation on an original piece of your own research.

Careers and skills

You'll develop skills employers need in many fields, and especially those requiring awareness of digital social research practice and theory.

Career opportunities

• Social media analyst
• Social media manager
• Social media and content strategist
• Digital marketing executive
• Digital communications officer
• Content editor