Masters in Social Science Research (MSSR)

Structure (total = 180 credits)

Core Modules (4 x 20 credits)	80 credits
Dissertation	60 credits
Subject specific or advanced modules	40 credits

Broadly speaking, every instance of the MSSR will contain all of the following four core modules. However, for pathways where some core competencies will have been met prior to entry (e.g. quantitative methods in Economics), the relevant core module will be substituted for Advanced Training.

• SOCI4074 Philosophy of Social Science Research (20 credits)
• POLI4126 Research Design, Practice and Ethics (20 credits)
• EDU4313 Fundamentals in Quantitative Research Methods (20 credits)
• SOCI4073 Foundations in Qualitative Research (20 credits)

All students will take at least 20 credits of subject-spefic modules. Depending on which pathway you are studying in, students will either take a further 20 credits of subject-specific training, or 20 credits of Advanced Training from a range of modules offered across the partnership. More details about Advanced Training options are provided here. 

All MSSR students will have to complete a masters-level dissertation before progressing onto the PhD element of the studentship. 

The following serves in principle, as a part-time structure for the MSSR. If a student requires a different structure, they should contact Professor Howard Stevenson, Head of Training, for approval, and make sure they have made their home School aware.

Year 1: 80 credits

Autumn	Spring
Philosophy of Research (20 credits)	Foundations in Qualitative Methods (20 credits)
Research Design, Practise and Ethics (20 credits)
Either semester: 20 credits of advanced or subject specific modules (depending on pathway)
40-60 credits	20-40 credits

 

Year 2: 100 credits including dissertation

Autumn	Spring	Summer
Fundamentals in Quantitative Research Methods (20 credits)		Dissertation (60 credits)
Either semester: 20 credits of advanced or subject specific modules (depending on pathway)
20-40 credits	0-20 credits	60 credits