MSc Accounting and Finance
Cardiff University’s MSc in Accounting and Finance is designed to develop advance...
MSc Social Science Research Methods (Science and Technology Studies)
Cardiff
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Science and Technology Studies) at Cardiff University is designed for students who are interested in the intersection of science, technology, and society. This program focuses on providing students with advanced research skills while exploring the social dimensions of scientific and technological developments. By combining both social science research methods and insights into science and technology, the program prepares students to critically analyze the role of science and technology in shaping society, policy, and global issues. It is an ideal program for those who wish to pursue careers in research, policy analysis, or science communication, addressing the complexities of technological innovation and its societal impacts.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Science and Technology Studies) includes core modules on research methodologies, quantitative and qualitative research techniques, and data analysis. Students will explore a variety of topics such as the history and sociology of science, the ethics of technological advancements, and the role of technology in public life. Optional modules allow students to specialize in areas like science policy, technology and society, or environmental studies, giving them the flexibility to tailor their studies to their interests. The program culminates in a research dissertation, where students apply their acquired knowledge and skills to conduct an independent research project in a chosen area of science and technology studies.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MSc program is centered on the relationship between science, technology, and society, with a particular emphasis on understanding how these fields interact and influence one another. Students are encouraged to investigate pressing issues such as the social implications of new technologies, the ethics of scientific research, and the role of science in addressing global challenges like climate change, health crises, and economic development. The program also provides students with the skills to design and conduct rigorous research projects, enabling them to contribute valuable insights to the field of science and technology studies.
Industry Engagement: Cardiff University’s MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Science and Technology Studies) fosters strong links with the industry through partnerships with research organizations, government agencies, and technology companies. Students benefit from opportunities to engage with professionals in the field through guest lectures, workshops, and industry projects. These engagements allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, enhancing their understanding of how research in science and technology is conducted in professional settings. Additionally, Cardiff’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning facilitates connections with other areas, such as policy development, innovation management, and science communication.
Global Perspective: The MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Science and Technology Studies) offers a global perspective by encouraging students to explore science and technology in a worldwide context. The program examines how global scientific advancements affect social structures, policy, and governance, with a particular focus on how different regions and cultures experience and respond to technological change. Through case studies, international research collaborations, and a focus on global challenges such as sustainability and public health, students gain a comprehensive understanding of how science and technology shape both local and global societies.
Location
Cardiff
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 23200
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence.
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.
Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.
Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.
British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.
Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.
Graduates of the MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Science and Technology Studies) from Cardiff University are well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths in both the public and private sectors. The advanced research skills and specialized knowledge of science, technology, and society open up opportunities in several fields.
Science Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, advising governments, international organizations, or NGOs on the social implications of scientific and technological developments. They can contribute to the creation of policies related to technology regulation, science funding, and environmental sustainability.
Technology and Society Researcher: With their expertise in science and technology studies, graduates can work as researchers in think tanks, academic institutions, or research organizations. They will study the societal impacts of new technologies, evaluate the ethical considerations of scientific innovations, and conduct research on issues such as digital ethics, public health technology, and the social implications of AI.
Science Communication Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers in science communication, working as science writers, editors, or public relations specialists. In this role, they would be responsible for translating complex scientific concepts into accessible language for the general public, media, or policymakers.
Innovation Consultant: Those with a strong understanding of the intersections between science, technology, and business can pursue careers as innovation consultants. They would work with companies, government agencies, or international organizations to guide the development and integration of new technologies, ensuring that these advancements meet societal needs and ethical standards.
Technology Ethics Specialist: Graduates can work as ethics consultants, providing expertise on the ethical implications of technological advancements. They may work in fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, or cybersecurity, helping organizations navigate ethical dilemmas and establish responsible practices.
Environmental Policy Advisor: Graduates with an interest in environmental issues can work as advisors, helping organizations and governments to develop strategies for sustainable technological development and addressing global challenges such as climate change and resource management.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Specialist: With the growing importance of ethical practices, graduates can work in CSR roles within corporations, where they will ensure that technological innovations are developed and implemented in socially responsible ways. This includes evaluating the environmental, ethical, and societal impacts of corporate activities.
Academic Researcher or Lecturer: For those interested in academia, the MSc provides a pathway to pursue doctoral research and become a lecturer or researcher in universities or research institutes. Graduates can contribute to expanding knowledge on science and technology's role in society.
Public Health Researcher: Graduates can contribute to public health research by examining the role of science and technology in healthcare. They can work on projects related to health technologies, medical ethics, or the social implications of emerging healthcare technologies, such as genomics or digital health.
Technology Implementation Specialist: Graduates may also pursue roles in the private sector, helping businesses integrate new technologies while considering their societal impact. These roles may involve working with tech companies, healthcare firms, or government agencies to ensure that new technologies are successfully deployed in a socially responsible manner.
