Introduction to the Social Science Research Methods PG Dip

The Social Science Research Methods Postgraduate Diploma is an intensive, accelerated course that runs over two terms, providing training in social science research methods. This program offers a pathway to doctoral study, including MPhil/PhD courses and, for suitable candidates, to year two of the EdD course. It is aimed at professionals working in various disciplines who are interested in developing research skills in social science.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
• English language requirements: The English language level for this course is Level 2.
• UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are available for international students to develop their academic English and skills required to succeed at the postgraduate level.

Course Overview

About this Degree

Students on this course develop an understanding of research in the social sciences and acquire skills and understanding that will give them the confidence to progress to doctoral study or apply research skills in their professional contexts. Students learn how to:

• Develop and critically evaluate research questions
• Gain an understanding of social science research methodologies and their links to research questions
• Select appropriate social science research methods to explore identified research questions
• Enhance their knowledge of different forms of research proposals and the complexities of funding applications
• Assess their own suitability for further research degree studies

Who this Course is For

The course is suitable for those working in a wide range of professional contexts or with relevant work experience. Mature students are particularly welcome to apply. It is aimed primarily at those in work who wish to develop social science research skills and/or develop the confidence to apply for doctoral study. The course is full-time and intensive, delivered in evening sessions, allowing many students to complete it while working.

What this Course Will Give You

This course offers a unique opportunity to gain social science research methods training in an accelerated two-term program. It facilitates progression to the MPhil/PhD at IOE, UCL's Faculty of Education and Society, or other institutions. Successful students will be allowed to commence year two of the EdD on completion of just one taught year one module: Foundations of Professionalism. The course also enables students to develop skills to apply social science research skills in their professional contexts. Research experiences offer opportunities to engage with real-world research projects, and guidance is provided on how to write a research proposal.

Careers and Employability

Students will gain the skills to progress to postgraduate research, potentially leading to careers in academia or as researchers working in the public or private sectors. The program has been undertaken by students from a wide range of professions, including school teachers and leaders, professionals in further and higher education, those in the charity sector, and individuals working in medicine and health. The aims of the program are to familiarize students with social science research, enhance the prospects of those wishing to go on to doctoral study, and allow others to further their careers by developing their capacity to apply research skills within their professional contexts.

Networking Opportunities

There are networking opportunities within this course, including a session from academics in charge of the EdD to discuss transferring from the PG Dip to an EdD. Students also have access to talks, seminars, and dissemination events on a wide range of UCL research.

Teaching and Learning

The program will be delivered through a series of online lectures, student-led discussion groups, pre-recorded lectures, and asynchronous online discussion groups. There will be an opportunity to take part in UCL research and develop a research project. The program is delivered through a combination of face-to-face seminars and synchronous (virtual real-time classroom) and asynchronous sessions. Students learn about the practicalities of social science research through engagement in a research project. Discussion with peers and study informed by adult learning theory are particular forms of learning on this program. Assessment is through the equivalent of a 5,000-word assignment for each module.

Modules

• Full-time students will undertake four compulsory modules:
  • Developing a Research Proposal
  • Developing Research Questions
  • Methods of Investigation
  • Designing a Research Study
• Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative, and module content and availability are subject to change.

Fieldwork and Placement

• For module three, students undertake a small-scale research project which may involve fieldwork or analyzing policy documents and systematic reviews.
• Students take part in a mini piece of guided research for module two of the program, under the supervision of academics within the department.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services team.

Fees and Funding

• Fees for this course:
  • UK students: ｣5,600 (2026/27)
  • International students: ｣13,100 (2026/27)
• The program is 10 months in duration.
• Additional costs: It is unlikely that there will be costs for this aspect of the course, as students will undertake fieldwork in their place of work or within the locale of UCL or their home.
• Participants intending to conduct empirical research in schools or other settings involving children and young people may need to arrange for DBS clearance before gaining access to such institutions. The DBS application cost will be covered by UCL, but offer holders will incur a charge for ID verification at a Post Office.

Funding Your Studies

For a comprehensive list of funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please refer to the Scholarships and Funding website. Scholarships relevant to this department are displayed, including:

• IOE Centenary Master's Scholarships
• IOE Clarke Scholarships

Next Steps

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding, particularly overseas applicants, should take note of application deadlines. There is an application processing fee for this course. When assessing applications, the admissions team would like to learn about the applicant's reasons for studying Social Science Research Methods at graduate level, why they want to study at UCL, and how their academic and professional background meets the demands of this challenging course.

UCL is a top-ranked university with life-changing research and a_x000D_ progressive approach to academia, making it different from the rest. At UCL,_x000D_ postgraduate students learn by doing—shaping the world around them with a_x000D_ hands-on approach.

Services

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