Program Overview

MRes Social Science Research

Overview

We’ll develop you into a fully trained and competent social science researcher who is able to understand and use a range of research techniques. Our flexible programme allows you to pursue your intended subject or topic, preparing you for PhD or a career in research. Forms part of the ESRC South West Doctoral Training Partnership – a hub of world-class social sciences research. Our seminar series and highly successful annual postgraduate conference brings together researchers from across all humanities and social sciences disciplines.

Entry Requirements

We will consider applicants with a 2:2 Honours degree or above in a social science or humanities subject area (including Business and Management). While we normally only accept applicants who meet this criterion, if your first degree is in a different discipline, you are coming from a different academic background which is equivalent to degree level, or have relevant work experience, we would welcome your application.

• Accepted social science subjects include:
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Area and Development Studies
  • Criminology
  • Demography
  • Development Studies
  • Economics
  • Economic and Social History
  • Education
  • Environmental Planning
  • Human Geography
  • International Relations
  • Law
  • Linguistics
  • Management and Business Studies
  • Media and Communication Studies
  • Philosophy
  • Politics and International Studies
  • Psychology
  • Science and Technology Studies
  • Social Policy
  • Social Statistics, Methods, and Computing
  • Social Work
  • Socio Legal Studies
  • Sociology

Course Content

This degree will empower you with a comprehensive toolkit to navigate the complexities of social research. You will refine your analytical skills, gaining proficiency in qualitative, quantitative, and digital research methodologies. We provide you with a deep understanding of the ethical considerations inherent in social research, fostering a sense of responsibility in your scholarly pursuits. You'll engage with real-world applications, honing your ability to contribute valuable insights to social issues. Additionally, collaborative learning environments and exposure to diverse research projects will cultivate your adaptability and critical thinking.

Modules

• One-stage, one-year, 180 credits. 120 credits of core modules, 60 credits of optional modules.

Compulsory Modules

• You must pick ONE of the dissertation modules
• You are required to take either SSIM915 (the quantitative pathway) or POLM063 (the qualitative pathway). You can also take both modules (one will be taken as an option).

Optional Modules

Fees

2025/26 entry

UK fees per year:

• £12,500 full-time; £6,250 part-time

International fees per year:

• £25,300 full-time; £12,650 part-time

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships. For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.

University of Exeter Alumni Scholarship

We are pleased to offer University of Exeter alumni beginning a standalone taught Masters degree (eg MA, MSc, MRes, MFA, LLM, PGCert, PGDip) or research degree (eg MPhil, PhD) with us a scholarship towards the cost of their tuition fees. These scholarships are worth 20% of the first year tuition fee for students enrolling on a postgraduate taught or research programme of study in 2025/26. Full details can be found here.

Teaching and Research

Learning and Teaching

With the exception of the dissertation, each module on this programme is normally taught through academic lectures expanded through seminar discussion, presentations, group work, reading and essay assignments.

Students have the opportunity to engage in a serious piece of research into a topic of their choosing through the dissertation module. Work on formulating a dissertation topic begins early in the academic year and you will have an individual supervisor for your dissertation.

Research

Students can take advantage of our seminar series and its long-running and highly successful annual postgraduate conference which brings together researchers from across all humanities and social sciences disciplines.

Careers

Our MRes is designed to prepare you for a successful research career. You will develop research skills expertise by designing research projects, collecting and analysing data, and drawing meaningful conclusions, that are highly valued skills in various economic sectors, including academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.

The programme specifically emphasizes social research methods, providing you with a solid foundation in various research methodologies - employers often seek candidates with strong methodological skills, whether they are looking to conduct their research or evaluate existing research.

The diverse skills that are enhanced through this MRes – specifically though exposure to multiple different research methodologies - helps make graduates adaptable to various roles. This versatility is attractive to employers looking for candidates who can handle different tasks and challenges.

Specific skills that students will develop include, but are not limited to:

• Advanced independent thinking
• Opportunities to develop expertise in qualitative, quantitative, and digital methodologies
• The ability to construct a rigorous argument, and defend that argument citing relevant sources and analysis with qualitative, quantitative, and digital methodologies both written form and orally
• Managing and interpreting information
• Experience of working as an individual on challenging material
• The ability to reflect on learning, evaluate personal strengths and weakness, and map out a plan of personal development based on those reflections
• Experience of working as a participant and/or leader of a group, and of contributing effectively to the planning and achievement of that group’s objectives

Employment and Professional Development

Our excellent Career Zone provides invaluable support, advice and access to graduate employers. Visit the employment and professional development pages for more information, including podcasts and profiles, about the range of support available.