Social Sciences with Quantitative Methods

The MSc Social Sciences with Quantitative Methods at University College London offers students a rigorous and comprehensive training in social science research techniques combined with advanced quantitative methods. This program is designed for individuals interested in understanding complex social phenomena through empirical analysis and statistical modeling. Students will develop a solid foundation in research design, data collection, and data analysis, equipping them with the skills necessary to interpret and contribute to scholarly debates across various social science disciplines such as sociology, political science, economics, and human geography. The curriculum integrates core modules in social theory and research methods with specialized courses focused on quantitative techniques, including statistical inference, multivariate analysis, and computational data analysis. Students will have the opportunity to learn how to apply these methods to real-world issues, making them well-prepared for careers in academia, policy analysis, data consultancy, and applied research. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to engage with the latest software tools and statistical packages, fostering technical competence and analytical precision. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations in research, and effective communication of findings. With access to UCL’s extensive research resources and a vibrant academic community, students will benefit from lectures, seminars, and workshops led by leading experts in the field. The program culminates in a dissertation, where students can explore a topic of their choice in depth, applying their quantitative skills to generate new insights. Graduates will leave the program with a robust set of analytical skills, advanced methodological knowledge, and a thorough understanding of social science theories, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to research and policy development in a variety of social contexts.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Year one provides a firm foundation in the core disciplines of sociology, economics, psychology. It also covers the principles and practice of social inquiry, and the basics of data analysis.

In all years you will choose optional modules from other social science subjects across UCL.

In years two and three you continue with advanced modules in quantitative data analysis, study subjects across the social sciences, and undertake a dissertation.

A levels

Grades

AAA-AAB

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade B. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

36-38

Subjects

A score of 17-18 points in three higher level subjects, with no score lower than 5.

The MSc in Social Sciences with Quantitative Methods at University College London offers a comprehensive financing package to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for home students are approximately £11,980 per year, while international students are charged around £24,030 per year. These fees cover access to state-of-the-art laboratories, extensive library resources, and various academic support services. UCL provides a range of scholarships, bursaries, and funding options for eligible students, including departmental scholarships, UCL postgraduate research scholarships, and external funding opportunities. Students are encouraged to explore the scholarships portal on the UCL website to identify awards for which they might qualify. Additionally, students can apply for government loans, such as the UK Student Loan, which offers repayment plans based on income levels after graduation. Many students also seek part-time employment through UCL's career services or on-campus roles, which help alleviate financial burdens and provide valuable professional experience. The university offers financial advice and assistance to help students plan their budgets and manage expenses efficiently. International students should consider additional costs such as health insurance, visa fees, and accommodation, which vary depending on individual circumstances. UCL actively promotes diversity and accessibility, aiming to make higher education affordable for students from various backgrounds. Moreover, some students may be eligible for region-specific grants or external scholarships offered by governmental or private organizations. Overall, the financing options at UCL are designed to facilitate access and support student success, minimizing financial stress and enabling learners to focus on their academic and research pursuits in social sciences with quantitative methods.

The Social Sciences with Quantitative Methods program at University College London (UCL) offers students an in-depth understanding of social science theories alongside advanced training in quantitative research techniques. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to equip students with the analytical skills necessary to interpret complex social phenomena through rigorous data collection, statistical analysis, and computational methods. The curriculum integrates core concepts from sociology, politics, economics, and other social sciences, emphasizing the development of quantitative literacy and methodological competence. Students engage with a variety of modules covering areas such as survey design, statistical modeling, data management, and the use of software like R, Stata, or SPSS.

The programme aims to prepare graduates for careers in research, policy analysis, data science, and consultancy, where quantitative skills are crucial. Throughout their studies, students have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and seminars led by leading academics and industry experts. UCL's strong links with external organizations and research institutions facilitate practical experience and networking possibilities. The course structure typically includes lectures, seminars, practical labs, and independent research components, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates the application of quantitative methods to a relevant social issue.

Given UCL's reputation as a leading research university in social sciences, the programme also provides access to extensive library resources, data repositories, and collaboration opportunities. The faculty members involved in this programme are often engaged in cutting-edge research, contributing to the development of new methodologies and insights in social sciences. Students graduating from this programme possess a robust skill set that combines critical social science knowledge with empirical and statistical expertise, enabling them to analyze social data effectively and contribute to evidence-based decision-making. The overall aim is to produce highly capable professionals who can operate both independently and collaboratively in various sectors where social data analysis is essential. This programme is suitable for students interested in pursuing careers in academia, government, international organizations, or private sector firms that rely heavily on quantitative social science research.