The course introduces quantitative research methods commonly used in the Social Sciences. It will provide you with an opportunity to acquire skills in research design, data collection and data analysis. Those skills can then be applied to your specific degree subject. You will learn how to use a statistical programme for social scientists (SPSS).

A grounding in quantitative methods will allow you to understand a wider range of academic literature, better understand the social and political world, and provide an important transferable skill attractive to employers.

Specific topics will include: why quantitative research matters; research design and research questions; sampling and questionnaire design; introduction to statistical analysis; univariate statistics; relationships between variables; the mis-presentation of data; ethical issues.

*Course content subject to change