Social Research, MA

Course content

At the start of the programme you'll build your knowledge of research design, learning to connect abstract theoretical and methodological perspectives with practical research strategies. Sampling and selection, choosing the right data collection and analysis methods, the ethics and politics of research design and creating research proposals will all be among the topics you explore.

You'll also have the chance to deepen your subject knowledge with your optional module. You could focus on crime, social policy analysis or evaluative research as well as disability studies, care or social thought.

In semester two you'll begin intensive training in analysing quantitative and qualitative data. You'll learn to use statistical software, design surveys and questionnaires and record, code, organise and manage qualitative data. You'll evaluate different research methods, understanding the benefits, limitations, and ethical implications of each one and when to use them.

By the end of the programme in September, you'll submit a research project that puts the skills you've gained into practice - and perhaps lay the foundations of your future research.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Research Dissertation 60 credits
• Researching Culture and Society 30 credits
• Quantitative Research Methods 15 credits
• Qualitative Research Methods 15 credits
• Understanding Society and Culture 30 credits

Optional modules

• Contemporary Social Thought 30 credits
• 'Race', Identity and Culture in the Black Atlantic 15 credits
• Disability and Development 15 credits
• Social Policy, Politics and Disabled People 30 credits
• Contested Bodies 15 credits
• Que(e)rying Sexualities 15 credits
• Social Policy Analysis 15 credits
• Social Policy Debates 15 credits
• Policy and Programme Evaluation 15 credits
• Power, Critique & Global Transformations 15 credits
• Sociology of Media and Culture 30 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Social Research MA Full Time in the course catalogue

For more information on typical modules, read Social Research MA Part Time in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

We use a range of teaching and learning methods to develop the research skills and theoretical knowledge you need. These include seminars, tutorials, and presentations. You'll also attend practical sessions and workshops where you'll get to grips with data analysis. Independent study is also vital to this programme, allowing you to refine your skills and prepare for your taught sessions.

Assessment

You'll experience different assessment methods, including presentations, literature reviews, research proposals and essays. In data analysis modules, you'll be expected to analyse and engage with data within your essays. We offer plenty of support with aspects such as academic writing.

Applying, fees and funding

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in sociology, social policy or a related subject across the social and human sciences.

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information contact the School of Sociology and Social Policy admissions team.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

If English is not your first language, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course before you begin your studies. This can help if you:

• don't meet the English language requirements for your course or
• want to improve your understanding of academic language and practices in your area of study.

Our pre-sessional courses are designed with a progression route to the degree programme and are tailored to the subject area. For information and entry requirements, read Language for Communication and Society (6 weeks) and Language for Social Science and Arts: Communication and Society (10 weeks).

How to apply

There is no deadline for applications for this programme, but we advise you to apply before the end of July where possible.

• Apply (Full time)
• Apply (Part time)

This link takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.
 
If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Documents and information you need

• A completed application form
• A copy of your degree certificate or equivalent, as well as a transcript of your grades (or partial transcript if you're still studying)
• Two academic references
• Evidence of your English language qualifications, if English is not your first language.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

School of Sociology and Social Policy Taught Postgraduate Admissions Policy

Fees

UK/EU: £8,000 (total)

International: £18,500 (total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

Career opportunities

In the last decade there has been enormous growth in social research, leading to an increasing variety of career options. There are a number of different research environments, such as academic departments, third sector organisations, private research organisations and governmental agencies - all of which have distinctive research cultures.

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

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