Overview

This MA Social Research Methods at Durham University is a taught postgraduate degree that equips you with advanced practical and theoretical training in research methods used across the social sciences. The programme combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches, letting you learn how to design, conduct, analyse and interpret social research in real-world contexts. You can often tailor your focus (e.g., sociology, social policy or criminology) while learning core skills that are essential in academic, public policy, NGO and private sector research.

Why Social Research Methods at Durham University?

Durham University is renowned for its commitment to excellence in research and education, consistently ranking among the top universities in the UK. The university boasts strong partnerships with various organisations, enhancing the practical aspects of the curriculum. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and access to leading experts in the field, ensuring a rich learning environment.

The skills acquired in the MA in Social Research Methods are highly sought after across various sectors, including academia, government, and non-profit organisations. Graduates are well-prepared to address pressing social issues through research and analysis.

This programme does not guarantee work experience; however, it offers opportunities to engage with real-world research projects, enhancing practical skills and employability.

Careers with Social Research Methods

Graduates of the MA in Social Research Methods find themselves well-positioned for diverse career paths. Alumni have secured roles in health and welfare, local and central government, the Civil Service, and the private sector, working with notable organisations such as M&S, Accenture, and Unilever. The skills developed during the programme prepare students for impactful positions in sociology, research, and social policy analysis.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Criminology: Theory and Critical Issues
Social Policy and Society
Public Sociology: Theory and Practice

Social Work Context and Practice
Systematic Review

Analysing Causal Relations in Social Science Research
Health Informatics and Clinical Intelligence

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months
Part-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-27 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-07-31 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-08-31 00:00:00 , National

More details

Applicants needing a student visa must submit postgraduate applications by end July, while those not requiring a visa must apply by end August.

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Durham, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Sociology View 259 other Masters in Sociology in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Upper Second Class

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Normally a second class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent.

An undergraduate degree in social sciences is desirable but not compulsory and we welcome students with degrees in arts, humanities and science subjects. You should demonstrate clearly why you are interested in the MSc in your personal statement.

We are also keen to consider applications with a professional background in criminal justice.

Additional requirements

When submitting your online application, you will also need to provide:

Current Transcript and Certificate (if possible)

Two academic references (it is the applicant's responsibility to obtain their references from their referees).

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

27750 GBP / year

≈ 27750 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

11750 GBP / year

≈ 11750 GBP / year

Additional Details

Home (part-time): £6,500 per year
International (part-time): £15,300 per year

Living costs

Durham

United Kingdom

660 - 1140 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Social Research Methods.

Available Scholarships

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Social Research Methods

About

On this page

About

Overview

Why Social Research Methods at Durham University?

Careers with Social Research Methods

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Durham

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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