Department of Geography | MA Geography (Research Methods)

MA Geography (Research Methods) at Durham University

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The MA is an ESRC-recognised course offering practical and theoretical research methods training for both social science and in human geography.

The MA in Geography (Research Methods) provides a thorough grounding in the practical and theoretical techniques used in both social sciences and the study of human geography.

Recognised by the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC), the course combines skills training with opportunities to reflect on relevant personal experience, which you will then be encouraged to draw on in further study. Learning takes place in small groups in a supportive environment and focuses on discussion and debate around current issues in the field. 

Core modules, developed and delivered by specialist academics in line with the ESRC's requirements, range from philosophy and theory in contemporary human geography to interdisciplinary perspectives and practices across social research. You also choose from a selection of optional modules in topics such as Advanced Ethnographic Research, Multilevel Modelling and Computational Social Sciences as well as completing a dissertation in an area of interest.

Facilities in the Department have benefitted from around £2m of investment in recent years. They include well-equipped laboratories, a workshop, an extensive field equipment store and a cartographic unit, all managed by a team of skilled technical staff.

The course is one of a suite of methods-based postgraduate degrees delivered by departments from across the University. It enables you to immerse yourself in a vibrant and enthusiastic postgraduate community which provides a social, as well as academic, experience.  We operate a ‘buddy system’ which brings together new postgraduate researchers with more experienced researchers who will be able to give you advice, information and support. 

Outside of scheduled learning time there are further opportunities to attend departmental events and talks and take part in the annual research conference.

Studying in a department with a global reputation for the quality of research, our postgraduates are well placed to continue research at a higher level or progress into a rewarding professional career.

Taught courses are designed to develop the transferable skills that are highly sought after by employers such as the ability to analyse and communicate information and make decisions, and our postgraduates are much valued in areas such as government, non-governmental organisations and the charity sector.

Other roles in which postgraduates make a real difference to people and communities include property and surveying, environmental consultancy and management, conservation, town planning, geopolitical risk, market research, development work, health, public policy, social research, logistics, youth and community work, education, energy, utilities, tourism, banking, law, PR, IT, publishing, journalism and the media.

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