Course modules
This course offers rigorous multi-disciplinary training in traditional and innovative research methods and enables you to develop an advanced critical appreciation of key methodological debates and acquire practical skills of undertaking research. Students are assessed through coursework and there are no exams.
Research Designs, Practice and Ethics - The module provides an overview of the main approaches in health research and research in the social sciences more broadly, introducing students to key concepts and enabling students to understand the principles of research design and strategy and quality assurance. The module emphasises the centrality of ethics, providing a critical introduction to the role of ethics in research and to the ESRC Framework for Research Ethics
Foundations in Qualitative Research – The module provides an overview of what is involved in planning, carrying out, writing up and evaluating qualitative research. Through a review of traditional and novel research methods (interviews, focus groups, observation, visual methods, ethnography, netnography, documentary analysis, etc.), the module enables students to make informed decisions about methods of qualitative data collection and analysis, including through the use of relevant software. Students learn how to design a data collection tool and how to conduct qualitative data analysis.
Fundamentals in Quantitative Research Methods – This module centres on concepts, application and interpretation of quantitative research methods used in health and the social sciences. Students are taught principles underpinning data collection and the creation of a quantitative dataset as well as tools of statistical analysis and interpretation.
Health and Wellbeing Through the Life Course - The module enables students to be well-informed of the latest thinking and ideas in the field of health, including subject knowledge, key concepts, theoretical traditions and research methods. It enables students to investigate social justice aspects of health, including health inequalities.
Understanding Research Strategies and Approaches in the Social Sciences – This module aims to develop students’ awareness and understanding of the philosophical and theoretical assumptions, including ontological and epistemological commitments, underpinning different approaches to health and social research. It enables students to consider the equality, diversity and inclusion implications of research approach and research design
MSc Social Research Dissertation – This module requires students to undertake a health and wellbeing related research project which typically entails the collection and analysis of data. Students can typically choose their own topic area. In addition to the dissertation of 15,000 words, students create stakeholder engagement plans and ways of disseminating their research findings.
Note: All modules are indicative and based on the current academic session. Course information is correct at the time of publication and is subject to review. Exact modules may, therefore, vary for your intake in order to keep content current. If there are changes to your course we will, where reasonable, take steps to inform you as appropriate.