Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year
MRes Social Science Research
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | MRes Social Science Research | Programme code | PTR1HPSHPS15 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Academic year | 2025/6 | |
| Campus(es) | Streatham (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 7 (Masters) |
2. Description of the Programme
The MRes Social Science Research provides necessary background and research training to go on to doctoral research or to pursue a career as a professional researcher across the social science disciplines or in applied social research outside the academia. The MRes can be pursued on its own, or as the first year of the Four-Year (“1+3”) PhD. The dissertation can serve as a marketable piece of professional research output for those intending to directly pursue a research career and can serve as a springboard doctoral level study for those pursuing a PhD.
On completion of the programme you will be able to demonstrate a detailed and comprehensive understanding of current issues in social science fields and related disciplines, including understanding social science research and its methodological underpinnings.
The MRes offers the methods training required for your future research. The key feature of this program is that it offers a structured pre-doctoral training path that gives you opportunities to take relevant substantive coursework for your intended subject and topic, gain exposure and develop skills across different methodological techniques (that align with SWDTP training directives), and give you an opportunity to complete a master’s dissertation in an appropriate department.
The core organizing principles of a program that spans multiple disciplines are as follows:
1) providing a coherent framework for delivery of methods andsubstantive content,
2) introducing you to the variety of methodological approaches in the social sciences,
3) allowing you to take substantive modules in your discipline, as well as the methodological training.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
The chief aim of the MRes Social Science Research for Doctoral Study is to provide you with the requisite methodological and substantive preparation for success in doctoral study. The programme will therefore produce graduates who are suited to excelling in research across a wide array of ESRC-funded fields, including Politics and International Relations, Sociology, Anthropology, Human Geography, History, Area Studies, Law and Legal Studies, and other fields.
As a program that will prepare students for doctoral level work, research methods training holds a paramount position. The ability to design, execute, and analyse research effectively is crucial for contributing meaningfully to one's field of study. This program, in line with ESRC requirements, offers training in qualitative, quantitative, and digital methodologies.
The programme can also be taken on its own, without continuing with doctoral training, and provides a solid methodological foundation for applied social research undertaken outside the academia.
Quantitative research methods involve the systematic collection and analysis of numerical data. Researchers need a strong foundation in quantitative methodologies to conduct experiments, surveys, and statistical analyses. Statistical techniques allow for the identification of patterns, trends, and relationships within data. Researchers proficient in quantitative methods contribute valuable insights to evidence-based decision-making processes in various disciplines.
Qualitative research focuses on exploring and understanding complex phenomena through non-numeric data, such as interviews, observations, and textual analysis. Researchers trained in qualitative methodologies develop a deep understanding of the context and subjective experiences of their subjects. Qualitative research offers rich narratives and nuanced perspectives that might be missed with other approaches. A comprehensive research methods training program equips doctoral students with the skills to design and conduct qualitative studies that contribute to the depth of knowledge within their respective fields.
The digital era has transformed the research landscape, introducing new methodologies that leverage technology for not only data collection, analysis, and dissemination but also as a rich data source itself. Researchers adept in digital methodologies will be able to better navigate the evolving research ecosystem effectively. Digital methodologies not only enhance the efficiency of research processes but also open avenues for interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative approaches.
The programme is organised around three equally important foundations – methods training, substantive coursework, and independent research.
4. Programme Structure
5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.
https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/studyinformation/modules/?prog=spspa
The MRes in Social Science Research is a 1-year full-time programme of study at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 7 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). This programme is comprised of 1 stage. A stage is normally equivalent to an academic year.
Detailed description of programme structure:
Methods modules (60 credits total)
Students will take 60 credits of core methods modules. SOCM019 provides an introduction to social science research methods familarising students with the principles of research design and quantitative and qualitative approaches to social research. SPAM003 and SPAM004 provide training in digital and data skills. Students then must choose either SSIM915 (for advanced quantitative training) or POLM063 (for advanced qualitative training). All together, these modules satisfy the ESRC requirements for postgraduate methods training in the social sciences.
Dissertation (60 credits)
Students will select a 60-credit dissertation module from an appropriate academic department (typically the department of their intended doctoral supervisor). (Other dissertation modules can be used with the permission of the relevant department.) See note ‘a’ above.
Optional modules (60 credits)
Students will complete an additional 60 credits of modules as is appropriate for their educational journey, based on available options at the time.
Note: The modules listed above are indicative modules that can fulfill the optional modules credits. Departments may impose specific eligibility requirements. Available options will vary year to year, being listed here does not guarantee that they will be available to students. For an up-to-date list of available modules, consult https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/studyinformation/ for the appropriate academic year.
Stage 1
One-stage, one-year, 180 credits. 120 credits of core modules, 60 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory Modules
a – You must pick ONE of the dissertation modules
b – You are required to take either SSIM915 (the quantitative pathway) or POLM063 (the qualitative pathway). You can also take both modules (one will be taken as an option).
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOCM019 | Research Methods in the Social Sciences | 15 | Yes |
| SPAM003 | Computational Social Science 1 | 15 | Yes |
| SPAM004 | Computational Social Science 2 | 15 | Yes |
| SSIM915 | Statistical Modelling b | 15 | Yes |
| POLM063 | Qualitative Methods in Social Research b | 15 | Yes |
| POLM886 | Dissertation a | 60 | Yes |
| PHLM009 | Dissertation a | 60 | Yes |
| ANTM904 | Dissertation a | 60 | Yes |
| SOCM904 | Dissertation a | 60 | Yes |
| LAWM640 | Dissertation a | 60 | Yes |
| HISM400 | Dissertation in History a | 60 | Yes |
| GEOM107 | Dissertation a | 60 | Yes |
| SSIM907 | Policy Analytics: Dissertation or Research Consultancy Project a | 60 | Yes |
Optional Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| MRes Social Science Research Options modules 2025-6 | |||
HISM016 Advanced Historical Research Skills recommended for students on the ESRC Economic and Social History pathway LAWM686 Approaches to Research in Law recommended for students on the ESRC Socio-Legal Studies pathway GEOM312 Just Futures recommended for students on the ESRC Human Geography pathway |
|||
| HISM016 | Advanced Historical Research Skills | 30 | No |
| LAWM686 | Approaches to Research in Law (ESRC) | 15 | No |
| GEOM312 | Just Futures | 15 | No |
| POLM809 | Applied Quantitative Data Analysis | 15 | No |
| POLM897 | Surveys and Experiments: Design, Implementation and Analysis | 15 | No |
| SOCM002A | Philosophy of the Social Sciences 1 | 15 | No |
| SOCM002B | Philosophy of the Social Sciences | 30 | No |
| SOCM033 | Data Governance and Ethics | 15 | No |
| PHLM010 | Introduction to Philosophical Methods | 30 | No |
| SSIM912 | Introduction to Social Network Analysis | 15 | No |
| SSI3021 | Mapping the Social World: Introduction to Spatial Analysis in the Social Sciences | 15 | No |
| SSIM916 | Machine learning for social data science | 15 | No |
| SSIM918 | Data Visualisation | 15 | No |
| SOCM023 | Social Theory | 15 | No |
| SOCM027 | Social Theory | 30 | No |
| SOCM046 | Meaning, Making Consuming | 30 | No |
| POLM156 | The Transformation of Politics in the Global Age | 30 | No |
| POLM158 | Digital Politics and Policy | 30 | No |
| POLM167 | Global Governance: Institutions and Challenges | 30 | No |
| POLM173 | Theories of International Development | 30 | No |
| POLM239 | International Organisation | 30 | No |
| POLM502 | International Relations: Power and Institutions | 30 | No |
| GEOM145 | Theory for Sustainable Transitions | 15 | No |
| SPAM002 | Security, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies | 30 | No |
| SPAM007 | Which Policies Work? Causal Methods for Policy Evaluation | 15 | No |
| SSIM907 | Policy Analytics: Dissertation or Research Consultancy Project | 60 | No |
| POLM084 | Conflict, Security and Development in World Politics | 30 | No |
| POLM168 | From Oppression to Resistance: Exploring the Intersections of Race, Class and Gender | 30 | No |
| POLM174 | Tools, Policy and Practice of International Development | 30 | No |
| POLM343 | Gender, War and Militarism | 30 | No |
| POLM503 | Foreign Policy Decision-Making | 30 | No |
| POLM651 | State and Society in the Middle East | 30 | No |
| POLM220M | Management and Governance: Comparing Public Administration around the World | 30 | No |
| POLM222M | The Politics, Policy and Practice of Sustainable Development | 30 | No |
| POLM228M | Leadership, Equality and Diversity | 30 | No |
| POLM237M | Collaborative and Participatory Governance | 30 | No |
| POLM342M | Public Accountability and Governance | 30 | No |
| POLM803 | Sources in Modernity and Post-Modernity | 30 | No |
| POLM887 | Public Policy Process | 30 | No |
| POLM231 | State Crime | 30 | No |
| POLM246 | The Politics of the Future | 30 | No |
| SOCM021 | Food Systems, Alternative Food Networks and Ethical Consumption | 30 | No |
| SOCM054 | Food Systems, Alternative Food Networks and Ethical Consumption | 15 | No |
| SOCM045 | Food and Sustainability: Economy, Society and Environment | 30 | No |
| SOCM044 | Food and Sustainability: Economy, Society and Environment | 15 | No |
| PHLM017 | Philosophy of Science | 30 | No |
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. Integrate concepts and analyses in ones relevant disciplinary/subject matter coursework | 1-5 are developed through seminar discussion and assignments across all modules, including the dissertation. 2, 4 and 5 are developed through the seminar discussion, practical exercises, and essay assignments in methods course work. 1 and 3, are developed specifically in topically appropriate optional modules. | Acquisition of these skills is assessed through written assignments and the dissertation. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
6. Demonstrate comprehension of the relationships between theory and practice in political and social science | 6-7 are developed primarily through seminar discussion and assignments across all modules, including the dissertation. 8-12 are acquired through methods coursework. 12 is a requirement of all modules. 13 and 14 through all coursework, and especially the dissertation. | All these skills are assessed informally through seminar preparation for both compulsory and optional modules, and formally through assessed assignments and the dissertation. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
15. Think independently at an advanced level | 15 to 17 are requirements of all modules, and especially the dissertation. 18 and 19 are core requirements of all modules, and especially the dissertation. 20 to 22 are developed through seminar work on the taught modules. 23 is developed through coursework, especially methods-oriented modules, and is applied on the dissertation. | 15 to 17 are assessed by essay work, other assignments, and by the dissertation. 18 and 19 are assessed through essays, methods coursework, and in the dissertation. 20 to 22 are reflected in seminar work and presentations. 23 is assessed through essays and other coursework. |
7. Programme Regulations
Classification
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
It is University policy that all Faculties should have in place a system of academic and personal tutors. The role of academic tutors is to support you on individual modules; the role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff.
As a postgraduate taught student you will be allocated a Personal Tutor at the commencement of your studies. In normal circumstances your Personal Tutor will remain your tutor throughout your study programme. You should make contact with your Personal Tutor three or four times a year and these meetings may typically commence soon after registration. Each student will in addition receive formative feedback from various discussion forums and exercises (administered by teaching staff) throughout the delivery of modules and therefore receive essentially continuous feedback during the taught component of the programme. Your dissertation supervisor will provide academic and tutorial support once students move on to the research component of the course. Student progess will be monitored and students can receive up-to-date records of the assessment, achievements and progress at any stage.
You should feel that you are able to approach your Personal Tutor for advice, pastoral support or academic support in a wider sense.
Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students and staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision. For those learning in distance mode, nominations to the PGT SSLC will be undertaken democratically online. Where appropriate SSLCs will make use of telephone conferencing facilities to ensure those on the distance learning programme are included.
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.
10. Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.
The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.
14. Awarding Institution
University of Exeter
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS)
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
Not applicable to this programme.
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
0
18. Final Award
MRes Social Science Research
19. UCAS Code
Not applicable to this programme.
20. NQF Level of Final Award
7 (Masters)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 180 |
ECTS credits | 90 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
23. Dates
| Origin Date | 02/11/2023 |
Date of last revision | 28/02/2025 |
|---|
