Social Science Research Methods MSc
Improving Health and Society SPS5022
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Social and Political Sciences
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This course provides students with the essential skills to design programmes and policies that make meaningful improvements in people's health and social outcomes. Students will learn how to apply theory and evidence to create solutions to real world issues. They will also develop a critical understanding of how different evaluation designs can provide robust evidence of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness to inform programme and policy implementation. The expertise students will gain is highly sought after across diverse sectors, including government and non-governmental organisations, health and social care, education services, and academia.
Timetable
1-hour online lecture and 90-minute seminar per week over 10 weeks.
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
Summative assessment will be through coursework, which will include an individual recorded presentation (5 minutes - 30%) and a project proposal incorporating a portfolio of course work (3,000 words - 70%)
Course Aims
This course aims to provide students with the tools to systematically develop and evaluate evidence-based initiatives that can achieve meaningful change in their own area of interest. By developing a clear programme theory, students will gain a critical understanding of how to create effective interventions and rigorously assess their impact. Ideal for those looking to enhance their skills in programme and policy design and evaluation, this course provides the analytical tools required for informed, strategic decision-making. Upon completion of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and techniques needed to deliver impactful programmes and policies that can make lasting improvements in health and social outcomes.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
• Apply the key steps required to develop health and social programmes and policy in a theoretically- and evidence-based way to maximise their potential effectiveness;
• Critically evaluate the utility of different research designs and methods in programme and policy evaluation;
• Identify and apply mechanisms that facilitate the translation of new health and social interventions into widespread practice;
• Develop a research proposal to design an intervention to improve health or social outcomes in their own area of interest;
• Communicate ideas clearly and persuasively, both in writing and presentations;
• Work effectively independently and in groups
• Develop effective time management and organisational skills.