The MA in Geography (Research Methods) - or MARM - aims to give a broad training in social science research methodology as well as more specific training in the approaches and techniques used in human geography. There is a balance between theory and practical application. The course includes skills training and reflection on personal experience, and those who are going on to MPhil/PhD work are encouraged to relate what they learn to their future research. Most of the teaching is in small groups and emphasises student engagement and discussion.
The MARM is an ESRC recognised Masters training course and all modules are designed and delivered in line within the ESRC's requirements. All modules include formative and summative assessment. The teaching is delivered in Terms 1 and 2. From Easter onwards you will work on your dissertation with the support of an allocated supervisor.
Course Structure
The MARM is composed of six core (compulsory) modules and a choice from three optional modules. The core modules total 150 credits and, in addition, you will take 30 credits from the optional modules adding up to a total of 180 credits. The course is delivered by the Department of Geography, the Department of Anthropology, the Department of Psychology and the Department of Sociology.
Core modules:
Philosophy and Theory in Contemporary Human Geography
Interdisciplinary Perspectives and Practices across Social Research
Research Frontiers in Human Geography
Quantitative Methods and Analysis
Qualitative Methods and Analysis
Using Geographical Skills and Techniques
Dissertation.
Examples of optional modules:
Advanced Ethnographic Research
Multilevel Modelling
Simulating Data in R
Systematic Review
Advanced Statistics for Psychology and the Behavioural Sciences
The course is delivered jointly by the Department of Geography, the Department of Anthropology, the Department of Psychology and the Department of Sociology. Most of the teaching is in small groups and emphasises student engagement and discussion.
All modules include formative and summative assessment. You will also complete a dissertation with the support of an allocated supervisor.
Entry requirements
A Bachelors degree or higher in an arts or social science subject, of the required standard, to train in preparation for studying for the PhD.
This course is partly taught and partly research-based and, if University conditions are met, leads to graduation with an MA degree. It is an approved course of the UK's Economic and Social Research Council. Full-time students must study for one year.
The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).
Our graduates go on to a wide variety of jobs across a broad range of sectors. Our graduates are highly employable owing to the wide range of skills and experience that they develop during their degrees. Each term we invite our alumni to give talks to our students to help them explore different careers. If you want to make sure that you are employable, but also want to leave your options open, then Geography is a great choice.
The Department is notable for its balance of coverage across both human and physical geography, and for its emphasis on interdisciplinary working. We provide a high–quality research environment and excellent facilities. Laboratories for water and sediment analysis, geotechnical studies, geomorphology and palaeoenvironmental reconstruction contain cutting-edge research equipment.
Ranked Joint 1st Nationally based on GPA (REF 2021)
Facilities
Our departmental facilities include a suite of well-equipped laboratories, a workshop, an extensive field equipment store and a cartographic unit, all of which are overseen and supported by a team of dedicated technical staff.
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