Social Research Methods

This MA provides research training with a specific focus on developing the skills needed to examine and analyse how societies, cultures, institutions and practices came into being, how they are organised today and how they continue to change. You’ll be part of a department at the forefront of research that supports social justice. We aim to give you a stimulating and supportive environment where you can explore what it means to be social, where society might be heading and how we can shape our shared futures. World-leading experts from across the social sciences teach our programmes, and a specialist in your chosen area will supervise your independent research project. You’ll gain advanced research and communication skills, along with the ability to think analytically. These are vital for a successful career across many sectors and also provide an excellent foundation for further postgraduate study. You’ll study the politics and practice of social research, looking at the role of the social scientist and the opportunities and challenges of different approaches. We’ll also introduce you to the debates that have shaped the relationship between method and knowledge, and how these continue to influence the social sciences today. This master’s has Economic and Social Research Council 1+3 recognition status and is designed for those intending to pursue professional or academic research in sociology, social policy or criminology. It will equip you to examine how societies, cultures and institutions came into being, how they are organised now and how they continue to change. This master’s is suitable for graduates in the Social Sciences or related areas. It is an excellent step for those who want to progress to postgraduate study at MPhil and PhD level, or pursue a career as an independent social researcher.

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0

International students: Full-time place, per year - £28,000; Part-time: £14,000

UK students: Full-time place, per year - £12,500; Part-time: £6,250

UK/Home: Full-time place, per year - £12,500; Part-time: £6,250

International: Full-time place, per year - £28,000; Part-time: £14,000

28 September 2026

Rolling admissions - apply early

• Liverpool, United Kingdom