MSc Social and Behavioural Research Methods

Heriot-Watt University

During the Master’s programme, you will develop advanced research skills and techniques within Social Sciences. You will understand the principles of research design and strategy and be able to formulate research questions which are amenable to empirical investigation. You will be able to understand and apply a broad range of research methods, including quantitative and qualitative, and will use appropriate software for their application. In semester 1, you will undertake research methods courses which provide you with a foundational understanding on how to do research in the Social Sciences, as well as introducing you to qualitative and quantitative research. In semester 2, you will have the opportunity to choose four optional courses from across the School of Social Sciences within the broad disciplines of Business Management, Accounting and Finance, and Psychology, as well as courses designed to cut across disciplines. Each of these courses will equip you with highly employable expertise and skills in research methods. We strongly encourage you to take an interdisciplinary approach in choosing your optional courses and develop your broad research skills, but you can also choose to follow a specific disciplinary pathway. This will allow you to customise your learning and develop your specific interests. Your dissertation in semester 3 will allow you to engage in an independent in-depth critical examination based on your core interest, whether it is an independent project in Business Management, Accounting and Finance, or Psychology. You will benefit from the industry relevance of the programme, which will set you up for life after graduation. Upon completion, you will be able to use a significant range of professional skills, techniques, and materials to understand the application of good ethical practice across the entire research process. You can go on to Doctoral study after graduation, work in research consultancies, government offices, or charities. The career opportunities are numerous!