Social Research (Health) MSc

Program Overview

The Social Research (Health) MSc at De Montfort University equips students with advanced research skills in health-related fields. Emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical application, the program trains students in traditional and innovative research methods, preparing them for diverse research endeavors in academia, healthcare, and beyond.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This Master's program, offered by De Montfort University, equips students with advanced skills to conduct research in health-related fields.

The course emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application of research methods, ensuring graduates are ready to contribute to diverse research endeavors.

Key features and objectives:

• Taught by experienced academics and researchers who are experts in their respective fields.
• qualitative and quantitative approaches
• a deep understanding of research ethics
• philosophical debates surrounding research design and practice
• application of research skills
• PhD-level research

Outline:

The program is designed to offer a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum, focused on methodological training in various research methods and theoretical perspectives.

Modules

• Research Designs, Practice and Ethics: Introduces key concepts of research design, strategy, and quality assurance within health and social science research.
• Foundations in Qualitative Research: Equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to plan, conduct, analyze, and evaluate qualitative research using traditional and innovative methods.
• Fundamentals in Quantitative Research Methods: Teaches principles of data collection, analysis, and interpretation within health and social science research, focusing on quantitative research methods.
• Health and Wellbeing Through the Life Course: Provides insights into the latest concepts, subject knowledge, and key aspects of health, including theoretical traditions and research methods.
• Understanding Research Strategies and Approaches in the Social Sciences: Develops awareness of philosophical and theoretical assumptions underpinning different research approaches, with a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion within research design.
• MSc Social Research Dissertation: Requires students to undertake a significant research project in their chosen area of interest, typically involving data collection and analysis.

Structure

The program uses a blended learning approach with lectures, seminars, and workshops complemented by flexible online learning opportunities in specific modules. Students are also expected to engage in independent learning, particularly for the dissertation, with guidance provided through one-to-one supervision.

Assessment

Assessment focuses on coursework rather than formal examinations. Students are evaluated through various methods such as:

• Essays and reports
• Creating research proposals and interview protocols
• Demonstrating knowledge through written and spoken assignments

Dissertation

The MSc program culminates in a 15,000-word dissertation, accompanied by stakeholder engagement plans and strategies for disseminating research findings. Students can complete a Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) with 120 credits from taught modules or a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) with 60 credits.

Teaching:

The program is delivered by a team of expert academic staff from diverse disciplines, including recognized figures in research publication and leadership.

Areas of expertise

• Communication in healthcare
• Arts and humanities in health and healthcare
• Health policy and health service reform
• Cross-sector collaboration
• Health inequalities and ethnicity
• Parental mental health
• Mental health literacy and resilience
• Creative methodologies in health research
• Reproductive decision-making
• New family forms
• Gay and lesbian parenthood
• Cognitive processes and use of language

Additional features:

• Program benefits from De Montfort University's substantial investment in Health and Life Sciences facilities, offering students access to contemporary laboratories, simulation spaces, and cutting-edge equipment.
• Extensive library resources are available, both in physical and online formats, including a vast collection of print materials, e-books, databases, and journals.
• Learning support includes access to software and technologies for digital skills development, as well as academic writing, research strategies, and library guidance.

Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for versatile career paths in research, academia, and professional settings where research expertise and skills are highly valued.

Potential opportunities:

• Conducting research in health-related organizations or research institutions
• Pursuing a PhD and entering academic careers
• Securing research-oriented positions in government agencies
• Contributing research skills to non-profit or advocacy organizations
• Applying methodological expertise for research roles within healthcare and public health sectors
• Advancing professional careers by leveraging research expertise for promotions and leadership positions.

Other:

• ethical considerations and the ESRC Framework for Research Ethics
• This MSc offers a strong foundation for students aiming to further develop their research skills and knowledge through doctoral studies.
It highlights the program's strengths, teaching methodology, career prospects, and other significant details that potential students may find beneficial when evaluating their educational options.

2024/25 full-time tuition fees for UK students: £7,800 2024/25 full-time tuition fees for international students: £16,300