Postgraduate Prospectus

This course will familiarise you with the range of methods used by researchers in the social sciences, as well as understanding the theoretical and methodological underpinnings of these methods.

By the end of the programme, you will be able to make an informed choice about which methods are appropriate for answering particular questions and should be competent to design and carry out research using a range of different methods of data collection and analysis.

You will develop a clear grasp of the ethical and political issues which arise in research in the social sciences and be able to frame research in relation to the theoretical and conceptual issues which are relevant to your particular area of study.

You will study a series of core modules that concentrate on research skills and methodology, as well as subject specific modules – Policy Analysis Concepts and Theories and Public Policy Management and Governance.

These developments will be explored from a multidisciplinary perspective, including sociology, law, politics, public policy and relevant sciences.

• This MA is part of The University of Nottingham’s ESRC Doctoral Training Centre (DTC), established as part of the new Postgraduate Training Framework introduced by the ESRC from the start of the 2011/12 session, which created 21 DTCs across the UK. Nottingham is one of just 12 DTCs which has gained recognition in its own right, rather than as part of a consortium. The Nottingham DTC will therefore play a key role in a national network, training the next generation of social scientists who will have to confront the strategic challenges of an increasingly complex and uncertain world.

The courses and research opportunities listed on this website are subject to change. While we will do all we can to ensure the information on these pages is accurate and up-to-date, The University of Nottingham reserves the right to change the content, modules and titles of any courses and research opportunities listed here without prior warning.