Build on your knowledge of data analysis in an applied context. Familiarise yourself with approaches to quantitative research and develop the ability to carry out a range of methods as appropriate. Quantitative research software is an established part of social research and the ability to apply it is a valuable skill. Methods for researching large scale, representative and ‘big’ data are skillsets intrinsic to social science and beyond. Completion of this module will broaden your research repertoire and help you to become a flexible social researcher. This module will be aligned with National Centre for Research Methods (NCRM) and Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) quantitative research training.

Engage with the latest approaches in social science research and data acquisition. This module has been constructed by utilising the expertise of teaching staff within the department. Your knowledge will help to frame how you approach the qualitative research frameworks around contemporary issues and debates. You'll strengthen your organisational and team working skills, ability to resource and evaluate information, and to critically analyse data and construct clear arguments.

This module is your opportunity to develop and undertake an original piece of research. You'll master relevant methods in social research, as well as deepening your understanding of a social scientific area of interest. The thesis can be either qualitative or quantitative research. The focus and nature of the thesis will be negotiated and agreed with a supervisor. Theses may be empirical, theoretical, hypothetical or a combination of these.

You'll be encouraged to consider a diversity of strategies and to be creative in your proposal for the written assignment. Your thesis may take the form of an essay or journal article or other agreed written output. Formative feedback is enabled through the constructive guidance. Supervising staff will provide feedback on areas such as:

• Planning and undertaking the project
• Research design
• Ethics
• Stakeholder involvement
• Data analysis
• Writing
• Outputs