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Sociology and Data Analytics - MSc

Gain the research and social and data science skills you need for a research career in the public, private, voluntary or academic sectors.

Key information

NFQ Level NFQ Level 9 Major
Duration One year or two years
Attendance Full-time or Part-time
Programme type Taught, Professional / Flexible
Delivery In-person
Start date September
Award Masters (MSc)

Are you interested in understanding society through data? 

This programme equips you with the skills to analyse social issues using advanced research methods and data analytics. 

Whether you’re aiming for a career in research, policy, or data driven decision-making, this MSc prepares you to work across the public, private, voluntary, and academic sectors. 

You’ll gain high-level training in sociological theory, research methods, data management, and data analytics. You will also be explore a range of topics in social science, including inequality, culture, health, or crime. 

Delivered full-time over one year or part-time over two years, this programme is ideal for graduates who want to make a difference through evidence-based research. 

During this programme, you will

  • Build advanced expertise in sociological theory, research methods, and data analytics. Develop cutting-edge research skills to investigate complex social issues using both qualitative and quantitative approaches.
  • Learn to design and conduct research projects, analyse large datasets, and interpret findings in ways that inform policy, practice, and public understanding.
  • Explore key themes such as inequality, social exclusion, crime, culture, health, gender, and urban sociology. Understand key ethical issues around data, methods and a broad foundation in contemporary sociological thought.
  • Gain hands-on experience of applying social theory to advanced data analysis through workshops, group discussions, and guided research, supported by regular feedback from faculty and peers.
  • Develop a dissertation proposal and complete an independent research project, showcasing your ability to use theory and methods to tackle real-world challenges.
  • Prepare for careers in research, policy analysis, data consultancy, and roles across the public, private, voluntary, and academic sectors. 

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