Master of Science - Social Research - Health (B90083)

The Master of Science in Social Research (Health) at De Montfort University Leicester provides high‑quality methodological training for postgraduate students who wish to undertake research within their professional practice or progress to doctoral study. It is particularly suited to individuals working in the health and social care sectors and is delivered by a team of social scientists with extensive experience in teaching and health‑related research.

The programme enables students to gain a strong academic foundation in health research methodology, together with specific skills necessary for the transition into research practice. These include the ability to analyse qualitative data, such as interview transcripts, to manage and interpret statistical datasets, and to disseminate research findings effectively.

The curriculum encompasses both qualitative and quantitative methods, offering a comprehensive overview of the research process and the philosophical principles that underpin research design and practice. It provides students with the opportunity to engage with a wide range of methodological concepts, interdisciplinary approaches, and mixed‑methods research.

The course fosters an in‑depth understanding of ethical principles in research and encourages the integration of equality, diversity, and inclusion into research practice. It also promotes knowledge of various quality assurance techniques essential to robust research design.

Key features:

• Delivered by a diverse and experienced academic team recognised for their expertise. • Explores both traditional and innovative approaches to social research. • Develops a strong technical skill set alongside a philosophical appreciation of major scholarly debates. • Encourages application of methodological principles to students’ own professional or work‑based areas of interest. • Equips students to undertake work‑based research effectively and provides the methodological foundation required for doctoral study. • Offers the required methodological training for Economic and Social Research Council PhD scholarship holders and NIHR INSIGHT studentship recipients in the East Midlands.