MRes Advanced Quantitative Methods (AQM) in Social Sciences

at University of Exeter

This distinctive MRes aims to develop a systematic understanding and critical appreciation of alternative approaches, methodologies and paradigms of social science research. It will develop fully trained and competent social science researchers, who are able to understand and use research techniques appropriate to their subject area as well as being conversant with approaches used by other social scientists.
 

The programme has a substantial theoretical and quantitative core but also delivers complementary qualitative training. This will provide an essential foundation for any working researcher, whether they are going on to do a PhD or otherwise engaged in research. The training will enable students to think through how they can use their knowledge and skills of advanced quantitative methods in different contexts and apply them to a variety of problems; and, progressively, to identify their own needs for training.
 

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

Compulsory modules

• Research Design Methods and Skills for AQM
• Qualitative Methods in Social Research
• Mathematics and Programming Skills for Social Scientists
• Quantitative Dissertation
   

Normally a 1st or 2:1 Honours degree (or international equivalent) in an appropriate subject from a recognised university.
 

Students will be required to demonstrate that their undergraduate course contained a substantial quantitative element (nominally 60 credit points, 30 European Credit Transfers) and that their dissertation included the use of quantitative methods.
 

Please note, if we receive an application which we deem more suitable for one of our other data science programmes we may make an offer for that alternative programme.
 

English language requirements

• IELTS

  Overall score 6.5. No less than 6.0 in any section.
   

• TOEFL

  Overall score 90 with minimum scores of 21 for writing, 21 for listening, 22 for reading and 23 for speaking.

UK fees per year:
£9,000 full-time; £4,500 part-time
 

International fees per year:
£19,500 full-time

Career Paths
 

The MRes Advanced Quantitative Methods (AQM) in Social Sciences is a training programme designed to equip you with the research skills necessary to progress to a doctoral research degree, or to embark upon on a career as a political researcher.
 

Employer valued skills
 

You will develop a range of academic, knowledge-based and personal skills:

• Advanced independent thinking

• Experience of working as an individual on challenging material

• The ability to reflect on your learning, evaluate personal strengths and weakness, and map out a plan of personal development based on those reflections

• Experience of working as a participant and/or leader of a group, and of contributing effectively to the planning and achievement of that group’s objectives

• Experience of giving presentations to others in your field

• The ability to construct a rigorous argument, and defend that argument citing relevant sources, both in written form and orally