The MRes in Social Science is a one-year postgraduate degree designed to equip you with advanced research skills in the social sciences. This program combines specialized and general methods training, offering transferable skills beneficial for employment in the public, private, and third sectors, as well as preparing you for doctoral studies. It is recognized under the Economic and Social Research Council’s (ESRC) Scottish Doctoral Training Programme, Sociology Pathway. The curriculum includes taught courses and a supervised research project, focusing on qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. You will gain practical experience by applying learned methods to topics of your choice, allowing you to tailor your training to your specific interests. The dissertation component further develops your practical, intellectual, and critical skills in a substantive area of interest.
The MRes program structure consists of taught courses followed by a dissertation. Students can study full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months. For part-time students, PD5006 must be taken in Year 1, and PI5904 or SO5909 in Year 2. The remaining compulsory courses can be taken in either year.
The MRes in Social Science equips you with transferable skills valuable for a range of employment opportunities in the public, private, and third sectors. The program also serves as a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue advanced doctoral studies.
Specific entry requirements may vary. Please check the program details for the most accurate information.
International tuition fees include an £8,000 Aberdeen Global Scholarship for self-funded students. For UK graduates, tuition is reduced to £7,000 per year, matching the SAAS tuition loan. These fees are for the 2026/27 academic year.
Recognised under the Economic and Social Research Council’s (ESRC) Scottish Doctoral Training Programme, Sociology Pathway.
For the 2026/27 academic year, international tuition fees are £23,000 per year. This includes an £8,000 Aberdeen Global Scholarship for self-funded students.
The MRes in Social Science can be completed in 12 months for full-time study or 24 months for part-time study.
Yes, self-funded international postgraduate Masters students are automatically awarded an £8,000 Aberdeen Global Scholarship, which is applied directly to the tuition fees.
Applicants need a degree qualification or its international equivalent. Specific subject requirements may vary depending on the chosen pathway.
You should apply through the University of Aberdeen's online postgraduate application portal. The process involves creating an account, completing the application form, and uploading supporting documents such as academic transcripts, degree certificates, a personal statement, and references.
Graduates are prepared for various roles in the public, private, and third sectors, including research, policy analysis, project management, and public sector positions. The program also serves as a strong foundation for doctoral studies.