Social Research Methods

Overview

Course Details

This Social Research Methods MSc course offered by the University of Southampton is for students who have gained funding for PhD research from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership (SCDTP). 

We’ll train you in a range of research methods to prepare you for PhD study. In addition you’ll gain subject-specific knowledge in one of the areas covered by the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership (a collaboration between the universities of Southampton, Brighton and Portsmouth). 

After graduating from this course you’ll be able to: 

• define your PhD research topic and defend your approach in a written proposal 
• carry out in-depth research in the social sciences 
• understand research methodologies, research design and the philosophy of social science 
• understand the key debates and issues in your PhD subject area 
• work in an interdisciplinary research environment 
• think and evaluate critically 

The pathway you’ll take on this master’s course depends on your area of PhD study and where you’ll be based for your PhD. All of the pathways are listed in the programme specification, which you can download on this page. The pathways are all based in Southampton, apart from where noted in the specification. 

You’ll only be eligible for this course if you have successfully applied for funding from the SCDTP on its 1+3 training pathway (masters and PhD). Visit southcoastdtp.ac.uk for more information.

Career Opportunities

After successfully graduating from this master’s course, you’ll move on to your PhD studies at your chosen institution.