Introduction to the MSc Social Science Research Programme

The MSc Social Science Research programme at Loughborough University is designed for students interested in a research career in academia or industry. Accredited by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), this prestigious programme is tailored to produce graduates with rigorous research and analytical skills.

Qualification(s) Available

The qualification available for this programme is an MSc in Social Science Research.

Fees

The fees for the programme are as follows:

• Dependent on start date. See below for specific details.

Scholarships Available

Scholarships are available for students on this programme.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the programme are:

• 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in Social Sciences and Humanities, and from other subject areas related to the pathways.

Full-time and Part-time Study Options

The programme is available for both full-time and part-time study:

• Full-time: 1 year
• Part-time: 2 years

Location

The programme is located at Loughborough.

Start Date

The start date for the programme is:

• October 2025 or October 2026

Department

The programme is offered by the Department of Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy, Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences.

Programme Structure

The programme has a strong focus on research, with all pathways sharing three core modules covering qualitative and quantitative research, research design, practice, and ethics in the context of social science research. Graduates from this programme will be fully equipped to independently undertake research, whether they intend to progress onto a PhD or a career in research.

Pathways

There are 10 pathways available:

• Communication and Media
• Sociology, Criminology and Social Policy
• Health and Wellbeing
• Sport and Exercise Science
• Human Geography
• Education
• Management and Business Studies
• Living in a Digital Society
• Cross-disciplinary Methodologies and Advanced Data Analysis
• Sustainable Development, Net Zero and Climate Resilience

Core Modules

The core modules for the programme are:

• Research Design and Research Practice (30 credits)
• Advanced Quantitative Research Methods in Social Science (15 credits)
• Dissertation in Social Science Research (60 credits)

Pathway-specific Modules

Each pathway has its own set of pathway-specific modules, taught by experts in the field. These modules are designed to complement the core modules and provide students with a deeper understanding of their chosen pathway.

Assessment

Students will be assessed through a variety of coursework, including essays and reports. The final assessment is a poster presentation and a dissertation, based on an original research project carried out with one-to-one guidance from a supervisor.

Study Methods

The programme is taught through a combination of:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Independent study
• Group work
• Workshops
• Practical sessions

Where You'll Study

The programme is based at Loughborough University, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

Entry Requirements for International Students

The entry requirements for international students vary depending on the country of origin. A list of country-specific requirements is provided, including:

• GPA requirements
• Degree classifications
• English language requirements

English Language Requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements, which are specified on the International website.

Fees and Funding

The fees for the programme are:

• £12,500 (UK fee) per annum for full-time study
• £25,500 (International fee) per annum for full-time study
• Fees for part-time study are calculated on a pro-rata basis.

Scholarships and Bursaries

There are scholarships and bursaries available to help with funding your study, including:

• 10% off tuition fees for Loughborough University Alumni
• Up to 20% off tuition fees for Excellence Scholarship recipients

Your Development

The programme is designed to help you develop the skills and attributes you need to progress successfully in your chosen career. On successful completion of the programme, you will be able to:

• Use the social science research skills you have gained from a school that is internationally renowned in this field.
• Communicate effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Plan, organise, and manage, with appropriate supervision, a significant self-directed research project.
• Work flexibly, creatively, and independently, displaying a high degree of self-direction and initiative.

Our Academics

The programme is taught by a team of experienced academics, including:

• Professor Dominic Malcolm
• Dr Michael Skey
• Professor Darren Smith
• Dr Ahmad Hassan Ahmad
• Dr Laura Valadez-Martinez
• Dr Marco Antonsich
• Dr Nicola Paine
• Professor Korbinian Moeller

Your Future Career

The programme is in full compliance with the Economic and Social Research Council’s requirements for an MSc in Social Science Research. On completion of the course, you will have met the training requirements for PhD funding from the ESRC, opening up the possibility of securing future doctoral funding from this research council. Graduates from this course have progressed to a range of roles, including:

• PhD Researcher
• Research Executive
• Media Executive
• Web and Communications Advisor
• Government Social Researcher

Related Master's Degrees

Related master's degrees include:

• Communication and Media PhD
• Media and Communication MA
• Media and Creative Industries PhD
• Sport Management, Politics and International Development MSc

Loughborough University

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Overview:

Loughborough University is a public research university located in Loughborough, Leicestershire, England. It is renowned for its strong academic programs, particularly in sports science, engineering, and business. The university boasts a vibrant campus life and a strong focus on research and innovation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Loughborough University offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and volunteering opportunities. The university has a strong sporting heritage and is home to world-class facilities. Students can also enjoy a vibrant social scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and events happening on campus.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class facilities:

Loughborough University boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated sports village, a modern library, and cutting-edge research labs.

Strong academic reputation:

The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK for its academic excellence.

Vibrant campus life:

Students can enjoy a lively and diverse campus community with numerous opportunities for social interaction and personal development.

Focus on research and innovation:

Loughborough University is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on tackling real-world challenges.

Excellent career prospects:

Graduates from Loughborough University are highly sought after by employers, with strong career prospects in various fields.

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Academic Programs:

Loughborough University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Engineering:

Aerospace, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and more.

Business and Economics:

Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, and more.

Sport Science:

Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, Sports Management, and more.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

Psychology, Sociology, History, and more.

Science and Technology:

Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, and more.

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Other:

Loughborough University has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The university is actively working towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions and promoting inclusivity and diversity within its community.