Applied Social Research (Social Statistics and Social Research) MSc, Postgraduate Diploma

Modules
Core modules
ASRP002: Research Design and Process
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The module takes students through the process of designing a research project. It enables them to think up an interesting research idea, to carry out a literature review, identify appropriate theoretical frameworks, refine the research question and then work out which methods to use. It introduces students to some of the more common research strategies and methods. It invites reflection on the ethics and politics of the research process, and encourages students to think systematically about dissemination of findings, knowledge exchange and research impact. The assessment for the module reinforces what has been learned: it involves thinking up a research topic, refining it into some researchable questions and then writing a proposal for funding.
ASRP003 Introduction to IT and Library Services
No credits given
The module is designed to make you aware of resources concerning Information Technology and Library Services; make you comfortable in the application of certain core IT and Library skills and aware of how to go about extending your knowledge of and confidence in further IT applications and Library Services.
ASRP004: Quantitative Data Analysis
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The module introduces quantitative data analysis, covering a selection of those statistical techniques which are most commonly employed in social science research. It also covers practical training in the application of quantitative methods to social science data. The emphasis will be on the analysis of data collected in social surveys, particularly the secondary analysis of large scale surveys.
ASRP026 Advanced Quantitative Methods
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module provides training in the application of methods of quantitative data analysis that are relatively advanced in character. Themes covered include advanced issues in regression models; models for categorical outcomes; multilevel models; the analysis of longitudinal data; and the analysis of multi-process systems.
SSSR005 Advanced Data Management
SCQF level 11, 10 credits
This module aims to provide students who have completed the Diploma in Social Enterprise programme the opportunity to carry out a major research project. With supervision, students are encouraged to use and develop their accumulated skills and their knowledge in conducting their own research project. This may be an academic dissertation, in which students will produce a coherent, well-argued dissertation based on an original piece of social science research. Alternatively, it may be an applied research and design project within their own social enterprise, in which applied research is undertaken to investigate a development opportunity, initiative or problem.
SSSR007 Using Big Data in Social Research
SCQF level 11, 10 credits
This module concerns the use of big data as a social science methodology. Students will learn the differences between ‘big data’ and ‘big good data’ and learn to critically engage with the potential for data to provide robust evidence. Training will be provided in analysing social media data, particularly Twitter, through a range of software including R and NodeXL.
SSSR010 Dissertation SCQF level 11, 60 credits
This module aims to provide students who have completed the Diploma in Applied Social Research programme the opportunity to carry out a major social science research project. With supervision, students are encouraged to use and develop their accumulated research skills and their knowledge of theoretical and methodological work in conducting their own research project. By the end of the module, students will produce a coherent, well-argued dissertation based on their original piece of social science research.
Optional modules
ASRP006: Comparative Social Research
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module aims to introduce students to comparative social research methods and to enable students to develop a critical awareness of key methodological considerations throughout the research process.
SSSP001: Social Network Analysis
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module examines both the theory and methods of social network analysis (SNA). Students will explore social capital, the consequences of network positions and the increasing awareness of networks. A range of SNA methodologies are covered, including centrality measures, quadratic assignment procedure regression and E-I index. Students will learn various specialist software packages, including UCInet and Pajek.
ASRP001: The Nature of Social Enquiry
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module aims to introduce students to the theoretical foundations that underpin social scientific research and analysis. The module begins by examining the main themes and issues within the philosophy of science and social science and then investigates different classical and modern theoretical perspectives for exploring the social world.
ASRP005 Qualitative Data Analysis
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module introduces students to qualitative data analysis. It aims to provide them with understanding and experience of conducting the analysis of qualitative data (including visual data), as well as a critical awareness of the role of computer assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS). Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct secondary analysis on a qualitative dataset and a critical appreciation of the impact of analysing secondary as well as primary data.
ASRP007: Policy Analysis and Evaluation Research
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module explores the relationship between policy and research. It aims to equip students with the intellectual and practical tools needed to analyse policy developments, evaluate evidence of ‘what works’, and appreciate the different approaches to evaluation.
CRMP010: Criminological Perspectives
SCQF level 11, 20 credits
This module aims to introduce students to the theoretical foundations that underpin criminological research and analysis. As part of the student’s work in preparation for the criminology dissertation, the module begins by examining the epistemological contexts of the main theories within criminology and proceeds throughout the course to investigate through a broad range of classical and modern criminological texts, the historical context of the subject area as a whole.
CRMP020: Research Methods in Criminology and Socio-Legal Studies SCQF level 11, 20 credits
The module introduces students to the specific challenges involved in conducting research within the main criminal justice agencies, examines key data sources used in criminological and socio-legal research (including the use of law library resources) and provides an understanding of the various ways in which criminological research relates to the development of policy.
EDRP002: Data Collection and Analysis SCQF level 11, 20 credits
Drawing upon specific research projects and debates, this module will introduce students to the differing ways of conceptualising the purposes of education, and the theories informing knowledge claims in research. It will enable students to engage with the different traditions of ideas informing research into education, and their strengths and weaknesses. The module therefore involves a critical examination of different approaches to and traditions in educational research and their underlying assumptions.