MSc Social Science Research Methods (Management)

Program Overview

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MSc Social Science Research Methods (Management)

Overview

This programme provides comprehensive training in the process of research conceptualisation, design and operationalisation. It has been carefully formulated to reflect the training recommended by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). It is particularly suited for those seeking a career as a social science researcher or planning to go on to a PhD in Management.

The programme delivers a thorough theoretical and practical grounding in the variety of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods available to social scientists and in the principal methods of analysing data. The programme also covers the philosophies underpinning the research process, ethical considerations, and social theory. You will be encouraged to apply your methods training to your substantive research interests.

You will be taught by leading academics whose research tackles global societal issues across a range of social science and management-related disciplines.

Our research groups and centres are:

• Centre for Action Research and Critical Inquiry in Organisations (ARCIO)
• Sustainable Production, Inclusivity, Consumption and Economy
• Innovation and Digitalisation
• Public Services Governance and Management
• Global Political Economy
• Work Futures.

A high percentage of our business and management research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021), reflecting its impact on shaping policy and practice.

Key Information

Programme Duration

• One year full-time.

Start Date

• September 2025

Application Deadline

• Overseas applicants: 25 July 2025
• Home applicants: 8 August 2025

Delivery Method

• On-Campus

Location

• Clifton

Awards Available

• MSc

Programme Structure

This programme comprises six taught units followed by a dissertation. The dissertation presents you with an opportunity to pursue an independent, in-depth study of a topic relating to management and organisation, reflecting on the theoretical, empirical and/or methodological issues covered in the taught element of the programme.

Entry Requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in Sociology; Research Methods; Business; or Management degrees.

OR

An upper second-class undergraduate honours degree or international equivalent in Anthropology, Business Ethics, Communication Studies, Criminology, Education, Geography, History, International Development, International Studies, Law, Media Studies, Organisational Behaviour/Theory, Politics, or Public Health.

This must include a 2:1 or equivalent in at least 3 different management or work/organisation related units, including:

• Business Ethics/Corporate Social Responsibility
• Critical Perspectives on Work/Organisation
• Corporate/Organisational Culture
• Digital Business
• Grand Challenges
• Management (HRM/Strategy/Governance/Leadership)
• Management Consulting
• Marketing
• Operations Management
• Organisational Behaviour/Theory
• Organisational Studies
• Project Management
• Public Management
• Research Methods
• Sociology/societal concepts

If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.

We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.

We will also consider your application if your grades are slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if you have at least one of the following:

• Evidence of significant, relevant work experience (minimum six months paid or voluntary) in research, policy or management roles in sectors such as charitable organisations / third sector, social enterprises, think tanks, international development, healthcare, or social work (with subject and module requirements met).
• A postgraduate qualification.

If this is the case, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing details of your relevant work experience and/or qualifications. Specific module requirements would still apply and can be met in either undergraduate or postgraduate qualification.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level B.

Fees and Funding

Home: Full-time

• £15,100 per year

Overseas: Full-time

• £28,500 per year

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.

Alumni Discount

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.

Funding and Scholarships

The Business School is offering a range of scholarships for master’s students starting in 2025.

Scholarships for International Students

• Think Big Scholarships: 200 scholarships available
  • 100 scholarships at £13,000 each
  • 100 scholarships at £6,500 each
• Career Accelerator Scholarships: 200 scholarships at £3,000 each

Scholarships for Home (UK) Students

• Business School Advance Scholarship: £10,000 each

Career Prospects

Bristol has an excellent reputation with employers worldwide and our graduates are in demand.

The programme will provide you with a sound basis for further study at doctoral level or for your future career in a wide range of fields and organisations, including business, the public sector and third sector organisations.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

This MSc program in Social Science Research Methods (Management) provides comprehensive training in the process of research conceptualization, design, and operationalization. It has been carefully formulated to reflect the training recommended by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). It is particularly suited for those seeking a career as a social science researcher or planning to go on to a PhD in Management. The program delivers a thorough theoretical and practical grounding in the variety of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods available to social scientists and in the principal methods of analyzing data. The program also covers the philosophies underpinning the research process, ethical considerations, and social theory. Students are encouraged to apply their methods training to their substantive research interests.

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Outline:

The program comprises six 12-week taught units (20 credits each) followed by a dissertation (60 credits).

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Teaching:

Students will be taught by leading academics whose research tackles global societal issues across management-related disciplines.

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Careers:

The program provides a sound basis for further study at the doctoral level or for a future career in a wide range of fields, including business, the public sector, and third sector organizations.

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Other:

The program is one year full-time and starts in September 2024. The application deadline for home applicants is 9 August 2024. Places are limited and allocated on a continuous basis from October 2023 until all places are filled. Early applications are advised to avoid disappointment.

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UK: full-time£10,500 per year Overseas: full-time£22,800 per year For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year. More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.