Social Research

The Master of Social Research at the Australian National University offers students a comprehensive education in the methodologies and practices essential for rigorous social inquiry. Designed for individuals seeking to develop advanced skills in social research, this program provides a strong foundation in theoretical concepts, research design, data collection, and analysis techniques applicable across a wide range of social sciences. Students will gain expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods, learning how to critically evaluate existing research and design their own studies to address complex social issues. The curriculum includes modules on statistical analysis, survey design, ethnography, interview techniques, and the ethical considerations involved in social research, equipping graduates with the versatile skills needed for careers in academia, government, policy analysis, market research, and non-governmental organizations. Through a combination of coursework, practical training, and a research thesis, students will develop the ability to independently carry out high-quality research projects and contribute valuable insights to their chosen fields. The program emphasizes critical thinking, methodological rigor, and ethical research practices, aligning with the ANU’s commitment to excellence and social impact. Students also benefit from the university’s strong connections with government agencies, research institutions, and industry partners, providing opportunities for collaboration and real-world application of their skills. Flexible study options are available, including part-time study, to accommodate working professionals and those with other commitments. Graduates of the Master of Social Research will be well-equipped to pursue careers in policy development, social research consultancy, academia, and various roles requiring expert analytical capabilities in social issues. The program fosters a vibrant learning community that encourages intellectual curiosity, inquiry, and lifelong learning, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society through evidence-based research and informed decision-making.

The Master of Social Research requires completion of 96 units, which must consist of:

12 units from completion of the following compulsory courses:

DEMO8082 Social Research Practice

SOCR8001 Statistics for Social Scientists

6 units from completion of a course from the following list:

SOCR8008 Qualitative Social Research

SOCR8009 Quantitative Social Research

A maximum of 18 units from completion of the following courses:

ANTH6009 Culture and Development

ANTH6025 Gender and Cross-Cultural Perspective

ANTH8028 Introduction to Social Impact Studies

CHMD8001 Directed Readings in Culture, Health and Medicine

CHMD8004 Qualitative Methodologies for Health Research

CHMD8014 Perspectives on Culture, Health and Medicine

HUMN8024 Digital Humanities: Theories and Projects

IDEC8003 Issues in Development Policy

IDEC8026 Quantitative Policy Impact Evaluation

MEDI8203 Introduction to Health Policy and Administration

NEWM6506 Digital Cultures

POGO8029 Health Policy in a Globalising World

POGO8084 Principles of Social Policy

POPH8100 Fundamentals of Epidemiology

SOCY8004 Interest Groups, Advocacy and Public Policy

STAT8002 Applied Time Series Analysis

A minimum of 36 units from the completion of:

Either:

24 units from completion of one of the following specialisations:

Demography

Social Research Methods

Social Science of the Internet

A minimum of 12 units from completion of courses from the following list:

DEMO8008 Principles of Population Analysis

DEMO8011 Demographic Analysis II

DEMO8024 Population and Society: Theory and Empirical Perspectives

DEMO8047 International Migration

DEMO8048 Gender and Population

DEMO8079 Health Demography

DEMO8088 Population, Climate Change and Sustainable Development

SOCR8002 Survey Data Analysis

SOCR8003 Qualitative Research Analysis

SOCR8004 Special Topic in Social Research

SOCR8005 Social Science of the Internet

SOCR8006 Online Research Methods

SOCR8007 Survey Data Analysis II

SOCR8008 Qualitative Social Research

SOCR8009 Quantitative Social Research

SOCY8014 Social Networks: Concepts, Analyses and Methods

Or:

 A minimum of 36 units from completion of the following courses:

DEMO8008 Principles of Population Analysis

DEMO8011 Demographic Analysis II

DEMO8020 Qualitative Research Analysis

DEMO8024 Population and Society: Theory and Empirical Perspectives

DEMO8047 International Migration

DEMO8048 Gender and Population

DEMO8079 Health Demography

DEMO8088 Population, Climate Change and Sustainable Development

SOCY8014 Social Networks: Concepts, Analyses and Methods

SOCR8002 Survey Data Analysis

SOCR8004 Special Topic in Social Research

SOCR8005 Social Science of the Internet

SOCR8006 Online Research Methods

SOCR8007 Survey Data Analysis II

SOCR8008 Qualitative Social Research

SOCR8009 Quantitative Social Research

24 units from completion of elective courses offered by ANU

A Bachelor degree or international equivalent with an average mark of at least 65 per cent

All applicants must meet the University's English Language Admission Requirements for Students

Applicants with a Bachelor Degree or Graduate Certificate in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 24 units (1 semester) of credit.

Applicants with a Graduate Diploma or Honours in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 48 units (1 year) of credit.

Cognate disciplines

Economics, Sociology, Political Science, Marketing, Psychology, Development Studies, Media and Communication, Law (social fields: family, migration, education, health), Geography, Social Policy, Anthropology.

ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.

Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are.  Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.

The Master of Social Research at the Australian National University is a postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced skills in social research methods and analysis. This program is ideal for individuals interested in understanding complex social issues, conducting empirical research, and applying quantitative and qualitative research techniques across various sectors such as government, non-profit organizations, academia, and private industry. The curriculum includes core courses in social theory, research design, data collection, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations in research. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as social policy, community development, or data analysis, aligning their studies with their professional interests and career goals.

The program emphasizes practical research skills, offering students hands-on experience through projects, internships, and collaborations with research institutes. Students are trained in using modern software tools for data analysis, such as SPSS, NVivo, and R, enabling them to handle large datasets and extract meaningful insights. The program also prepares students for doctoral studies or careers in policy analysis, social research consultancy, and data management roles. International students are welcomed, and the university provides support services to help with academic and career development during the course. The duration of the program is typically one to two years, depending on whether students enroll full-time or part-time.

Students benefit from the university’s strong focus on research excellence and are mentored by experienced academics who are active contributors to the field of social research. The ANU’s location in Canberra provides a strategic advantage for those interested in working with government agencies, research bodies, and policy organizations. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in various sectors, including government departments, research agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions, where they utilize their skills to contribute to evidence-based decision-making and social policy development. Overall, the Master of Social Research aims to develop analytical thinkers capable of addressing complex social issues using rigorous research methodologies and critical insights.