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MSc Socio-Legal Studies

Different course options

Full time | University of Bristol | 1 year | 16-SEP-24

Study mode

Full time

Duration

1 year

Start date

16-SEP-24

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

MSc - Master of Science

Subject areas

Socio-Legal Studies Law / Legal Studies

Course type

Taught

Course Summary

Programme overview

The MSc in Social Legal Studies presents an exciting opportunity to explore the role of law in society at a critical time in history - and cultivate a deep understanding of interdisciplinary approaches to the study of law and legal phenomena.

On the programme you will develop rigorous research skills and the ability to engage in broader social understanding, providing a sound basis to progress to a PhD or a career in socio-legal research through the study of different research methodologies across the social sciences and law.

The MSc has an emphasis on practical research training, on the ability to plan, research and write a sophisticated dissertation - and to think in broad theoretical terms about law in society. In addition to presenting an ideal introduction to academic research, it also offers excellent preparation for working for NGOs and other organisations that works for legal or social change or within government.

On the MSc you will pursue independent, in-depth study of socio-legal topics, and engage in lively debates in a thriving research culture across social sciences and law. The range of units offered makes this master's programme suitable for graduates from any discipline who have an interest in the way law may work in society.

The programme is one of five South West Doctoral Training Partnership interdisciplinary pathways delivered by world-leading researchers from the University of Bristol, University of Bath, University of the West of England and University of Exeter.

Carrers

The MSc in Socio-Legal Studies offers useful preparation for a number of careers. Foremost, the MSc is the academic basis and preparation for students choosing the 1+3 PhD programme (with three years of doctoral training following completion of this interdisciplinary master's degree). This is achievable if a student is awarded ESRC funding. It also provides an ideal introduction to working for NGOs and other organisations that work for legal or social change or within government. Some students choose to enter the legal profession, carrying with them a broader understanding of the way law operates within society.

Modules

The unit offers graduate level grounding in the rationale, strengths and limitations of a selection of key research methods most commonly utilised in contemporary qualitative social research. The training covers topics that may include the reasons why qualitative research methods are adopted; a range of the most common methods used; the ethics and problems associated with conducting qualitative research; the use of observation, ethnography, interviews and focus groups as research methods; the use of archives and documents; visual research; techniques in e-research; research design; the use of covert and overt research; data protection; intellectual property rights; plus practical sessions on information retrieval, and the ethics and governance of data protection.

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£13,700

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£26,700

Entry requirements

An upper second class honours degree (or international equivalent) in law, social sciences or another relevant discipline. A background in law is not essential as training will be given during the programme. Recognised Prior Learning is not currently accepted. Previous or professional experience is not required.