Applied Social Research Methods University of Salford

Overview

At heart, this Applied Social Research Methods program at University of Salford will build your capacity, expertise, and confidence in designing and undertaking research from inception to delivery. The course is underpinned by academic rigour twinned with a commitment to workplace readiness.

Using workshop and activity-based learning, you’ll explore how best to recruit participants and work with stakeholders; you’ll try out different methods to explore their pros and cons; you’ll be introduced to project management tools and supported to think critically about the ethical dimensions of research work.

• Develop advanced skills in designing, conducting, analysing, and reporting social research projects, using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Gain a deeper understanding of the philosophical and theoretical foundations of social research and how to appraise these.
• Gain a critical understanding of the ethical issues that underpin social research and the ability to reflect on your own positionality and practice as a researcher.
• Learn to critically evaluate existing research and evidence and to communicate your findings effectively to different audiences.
• Be exposed to diverse perspectives and approaches from different disciplines and cultures and encouraged to collaborate with other researchers and practitioners.

• Gain the knowledge and practice base necessary for further study at doctoral level.

Career

• Social researchers: Design and conduct social research to improve policy or to examine the effectiveness of existing policy. Social researchers work in research agencies, health organisations, charities, local governments, independent organisations, trade unions, and think tanks.
• Government social research officers: Provide high-quality social research, analysis, and advice, to inform the development, implementation, and evaluation of government policies and programmes. As part of the civil service, you can work for various government departments, such as education, health, justice, and transport.
• Policy analysts: Research and evaluate the impact of policies and programmes on society and the economy. Policy analysts can work in healthcare, think tanks, consultancy firms, and charitable and private sector bodies.
• Project managers: Are responsible for leading, planning, delivering, and evaluating organisational projects. Found in the private and public sectors, they work with stakeholders, lead teams, and coordinate partners to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Local government officers: Engaged in research, policy development, and service provision activities. Especially those involved in commissioning, monitoring, and evaluating service provision.
• Consultants: Providing expert advice and guidance to clients on specific issues or projects. Consultants can work in various fields, such as management, health, or education. They commonly undertake or commission research on behalf of clients.