This recently re-structured MRes in Social Science Research Methods prepares students for a research-related career by providing a structured programme of training in a range of research skills and methodologies, to enable students to approach a research project in a systematic and professional way. Increasingly, students wishing to take doctoral programmes are required first to undertake a year’s research training (or equivalent), and this MRes programme will provide that preparation required to successfully complete a PhD in the normal period of three years. The general aims of the programme are as follows: to equip participants with a ‘toolkit’ for research design, consisting of a range of social science research methods and strategies; to explore in detail the philosophical assumptions underlying contemporary research in the social sciences; to develop the qualities needed to evaluate critically social science research; to provide practice in a range of transferable skills, improve existing skills and enhance employability, whether in an academic context or beyond; to apply more general methods and philosophies to the student’s own discipline and to gain an in-depth understanding of the current issues related to that discipline. Students will also achieve Pg cert and Pgdip awards during this course.