MSc Applied Social Research

University of Stirling

There’s a growing demand for skilled social researchers who can understand human behaviour, tackle complex issues, and drive real change. The social sciences and humanities services market size is expected to grow to £87 billion ($116 billion) in 2029 (source: The Business Research Company Jan 2025). Our MSc in Applied Social Research at Stirling gives you the tools to meet that demand. You’ll learn to design and conduct high-quality social research that shapes policy and informs practice. Develop advanced social research skills On this Applied Social Research Masters you’ll: learn to collect, analyse and present qualitative and quantitative data ethically and effectively; use statistical and database software packages including Stata and NVivo; critically examine the theoretical foundations that underpin social scientific research; develop your understanding of the relationship between research and policymaking; gain the skills needed to design a research project; apply your learning to produce a dissertation on an area of personal interest. This could include criminology, migration, substance use, digital platforms and their implications, social networks and big data. A successful recent project, for example, assessed whether an 'inverse care law' applied to social care provision in Scotland, and reported upon a complicated picture of inequalities in experiences. Be part of an active social research community As an Applied Social Research Masters student, you’ll be taught by expert staff who are engaged in cutting edge social research projects. You'll be part of a research community with a strong track record of attracting major research funding from: Research Councils Government independent and charitable funders European Commission Further academic study opportunities This course is ideal if you're planning to pursue PhD research. It meets Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) training guidelines for a PhD in the social sciences and for interdisciplinary PhD projects or pathways.; Boost your research skills and expand your knowledge with in-depth postgraduate modules and a dissertation project. The MSc in Applied Social Research requires 120 credits in taught modules (usually by taking six 20-credit modules) and a dissertation (worth 60 credits). The Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Social Research requires 120 credits in taught modules.