MA in Social Research

What you'll study Core Modules Module title Credits. Modelling Social Data I Modelling Social Data I 30 credits * only open as an option to MA Social Research students and MRES Sociology students This module provides advanced level training in theoretically informed quantitative social research, proving skills in using contemporary software programmes (SPSS) and enabling the exploratory secondary analysis of large data sets The module introduces the methods and procedures of quantitative social research, including the formulation of research questions, use of previous research findings, the role of models and model building, operationalisation of concepts and study design. The module covers both analytic (causal inference) and inferential statistics confidence intervals and significance tests) and these are applied in social survey data analysis of, for example, the Understanding Society Survey. In construction and reading of contingency tables, the focus is on comparing percentages, use of the odds ratio, choice and interpretation of measures of association and the chi square test. These analytical themes are then extended to multivariate crosstabulations, criteria of causal inference, the elaboration paradigm and finally logistic regression analysis. The learning objectives of this course are delivered through a combination of lectures, class workshop exercises and lab sessions on SPSS. A virtual leaning site offers access to many learning resources directly or via web linksand opportunities for participation in an interactive forum for feedback and advice. Module convenor: Aidan Kelly 30 credits. Modelling Social Data II* Modelling Social Data II* 30 credits This module offers students the opportunity to develop advanced knowledge and skills in quantitative data analysis using widely available software (SPSS). Multiple regression analysis is initially coveredwith use of SPSS graphics and then proceeds to detailed assumption testing and path analysis. These and other techniques are taught via a simulation of the process of constructing a formula for the allocation of health resources in London and South East England (a sub-set of the 1992 York data). This involves various data reduction strategies including weighted multiple indicator scales, cluster analysis and factor analysis. Students may use other data sources such as World Bank data for their assessment report. The learning objectives of this module are delivered through a combination of lectures, class workshop exercises and lab sessions on SPSS. The virtual learning site provides access of many learning resources directly or via web links andopportunities for participation in a FAQ forum. Module convenor: Aidan Kelly *only open as an option to MA Social Research students and MRES Sociology students 30 credits. Theory, Concepts and Methods of Social Research I* Theory, Concepts and Methods of Social Research I* 30 credits This module provides an advanced understanding in the relationships between theory, concept and methods in social research. It does this by situating the methods taught and practised in the course in relation to relevant debates in epistemology and ontology and providing the sociological contexts and issues in which theory and methods are presented by specialist researchers. With a focus on research design, it provides advanced training in identifying and combining appropriate research strategies for specific social contexts and in the formulation of research aims. This course will equip you to evaluate current social research and sociological scholarship and to formulate social research for yourself. The advanced training provided by this course is exemplified by:
 Practical training in research design and practice. Workshop exercises to evaluate current social research and sociological scholarship. Methods of assessment based on demonstrated capacity to apply research skills. Throughout this course, we teach and reward students' work which shows the ability to apply a range of skills in defining a research problem, choosing an appropriate methodology and responding to critical theoretical, ethical and political issues. Module convenor: Michaela Benson *This module is open as an option to MA students from all programmes convened by the Department of Sociology 30 credits. Theory, Concepts and Methods of Social Research II* Theory, Concepts and Methods of Social Research II* 30 credits Theory, Concepts and Methods of Social Research I is a prerequisite for this module. Those wishing to take this module without first taking Theory, Concepts and Methods of Social Research I should consult the module convenor. This module provides general training in the practice of social research and advanced understanding to the sociological issues and debates focussed on the practice of social research. Building on the knowledge and experience developed in Theory, Concepts and Methods of Social Research I it provides a practical, workshop-based training in the use of a range of qualitative research methods, and in the handling and analysis of the data they generate. This course will equip you to conduct and analyse social research for yourself. The advanced training provided by this course is exemplified by:
 Practical training in research design and practice. Workshop exercises to evaluate current social research and sociological scholarship. Methods of assessment based on demonstrated capacity to apply research skills. Throughout this course, we teach and reward students' work which shows the ability to apply a range of skills in defining a research problem, choosing an appropriate methodology and responding to critical theoretical, ethical and political issues. Module convenor: Les Back *This module is open as an option module to MA students from all programmes convened by the Department of Sociology. 30 credits. Dissertation Dissertation 60 credits Our dissertation programme of individual supervision by an experienced member of staff and dissertation workshops will guide you as you undertake a substantive piece of research on a topic of your choice. 60 credits. Assessment Assessment consists of coursework, extended essays, reports, presentations, practice based projects or essays/logs, group projects, reflective essays, and seen and unseen written examinations. Download the programme specification for the 2018-19 intake. If you would like an earlier version of the programme specification, please contact the Quality Office. Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.