MSc Social Research Methods and Statistics

University of Manchester

Course description

The MSc in Social Research Methods and Statistics is designed to be accessible to non-statisticians, yet is more focused than many other existing master's courses in social research methods.

You'll need a base level of knowledge in undergraduate research methods which you will build on throughout the course, to gain comprehensive statistical and analytical skills. A series of pre-sessional training materials are available prior to the MSc start date.

The MSc has a strong connection with the Cathie Marsh Institute for Social Research , reflecting our commitment to interdisciplinary, integrated research. Research activities within the discipline area are both methodological and substantive. We focus on a range of subject areas including social inequalities, population dynamics and survey methodology.

The course is recognised by both the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and the North West Doctoral Training Centre, where we receive a large number of Advanced Quantitative methods (AQM) and CASE awards each year.

We develop future social scientists who will have a thorough grounding in research, and are equipped with the tools for collecting and analysing statistical data.

Career opportunities

The University has its own dedicated Careers Service that you would have full access to as a student and for two years after you graduate. At Manchester you will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability .

There is an increasing need for well-trained social scientists who are able to apply advanced methods of analysis to complex data.

You will gain relevant marketable skills that will put you in a good position to obtain jobs in:

• the academic sector;
• central and local government;
• commercial consultancy;
• voluntary research sector.

We have excellent links with ONS and government departments, local authorities and many commercial organisations and we are well placed to assist you in finding jobs.

A number of our students already hold research positions (typically in local government or overseas) taking the MSc as part of a career development programme. The course is ideal preparation if you wish to pursue doctoral study, and is a formal component of our 1+3 PhD training model. You are offered support to apply for PhD funding.

Students can also exit with PGDip awards.