Research Methodology (Sociology and Social Policy) University of Liverpool

This programme is designed to prepare students to successfully undertake postgraduate study at MPhil and PhD level, or to become independent/career social researchers.

It has Economic and Social Research Council 1+3 Recognition status and has been specifically constructed for students who intend to undertake professional and/or academic research in sociology, social policy and criminology. It provides an excellent broad-based practical grounding in research techniques. Students are introduced to the principles of research design and strategy, as well as qualitative and quantitative data-analysis and presentation. Practical skills are developed through task-based activity.

The programme consists of eight modules and a research dissertation. The programme delivers four modules which address generic areas of social science research techniques and methodology. Training in generic social science research techniques will be complemented by four modules which relate specifically to research in sociology, social policy and criminology. These modules together with the dissertation, have been designed to provide more advanced, discipline specific training, including both qualitative and quantitative analysis. See below for module list. The programme has formal ESRC recognition.

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Entry requirements

Students commencing the MA in Research Methodology will have either a first degree or a Masters degree in the Social Sciences or related areas. A good first degree (of 2:1 or first class) is normally required, although experience and/or strong supporting references may justify entry with a lower grade. Those with non-social science back grounds may also be considered if their experience and references suggest support for this. Applications from international students are welcome. International qualifications will be evaluated in line with the National Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) guidelines. International qualifications Applications from international students are welcome. International qualifications will be evaluated in line with the National Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) guidelines. English language qualifications All applicants must have reached a minimum required standard of English language, and are required to provide evidence of this. Qualifications accepted by the University include GCSE English; GCE O level English; AS Level English; A Level English Language; IELTS; TOEFL; Cambridge Proficiency etc. Please see www.liv.ac.uk/international/countries/index.htm for a full list. If you meet our other academic requirements but do not achieve the required level of English, it is possible to come and study at Liverpool on the University’s summer academic English programmes. If you need to increase your IELTS score by a grade of 0.5 (eg you need to improve from 6.0 to 6.5) you should attend the six week course. If you need to increase your IELTS score by a grade of 1.0 (eg you need to improve from 5.5 to 6.5) you should attend the ten week course. If you need to increase your IELTS score by a band of 1.5 (eg you need to improve from 4.5 to 6.0) you should attend the 19 week course. If you need to increase your IELTS score by a band of 2.0 (eg you need to improve from 4.5 to 6.5) you should attend the 29 week course. If you need to increase your IELTS score by a band of 2.0 or 2.5 (eg you need to improve from 4.0 to 6.0 or 4.0 to 6.5) you should attend the 40 week course. If you require additional English language training during your study, the University is able to provide tuition and arrange IELTS tests through its English Language Centre, details of which are available at www.liverpool.ac.uk/english-language-centre. IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each component) TOEFL iBT 88 or above with minimum scores in components as follows: Listening and Writing 21, Reading 22, Speaking 23. International Baccalaureate Standard Level (Grade 5) Hong Kong use of English AS level C INDIA Standard XII 70% or above from Central and Metro State Boards WAEC C4-6