Master of Science in Politics with Quantitative Research Methods

at University of Bristol - Clifton Campus United Kingdom

This degree develops analytical and quantitative skills applicable to a wide range of careers in economics and beyond.

We teach economics in a technically rigorous way. Econometrics - the application of statistical methods to data to estimate economic models - is a central component of the course.

In your first two years, mandatory units in macro and micro-economics, mathematics, statistics and econometrics provide you with a strong foundation. You will complement this with optional modules from a wide range of choices both within the Schools of Economics, Finance and Management and from other parts of the University. The number of options increases as you progress through the degree, so you have the flexibility to select units from the areas of economics that most interest you.

In the final year most students choose an applied economics dissertation. You will also also select from a wide range of optional units; in recent years these have included Behavioural Economics, Corporate Finance, Development Economics, Environmental Economics, Industrial Economics, International Economics and Operations Management.

The Study Abroad in a Modern Language course allows you to extend your degree to four years, spending your third year studying economics at a university in Europe or farther afield before returning to Bristol for your final year. You will study in the language of your host country and take language courses in your first and second years in preparation.

This course combines the challenging, broad academic content of our economics degree with an overseas dimension that reflects the international nature of the economy.

Criminology is the scientific study of criminal behaviour, laws and justice. It is a multidisciplinary subject comprising elements of sociology, law, social and public policy, history, psychology and philosophy.

BSc Criminology at the University of Bristol is an exciting course that provides an opportunity to study criminology within a broader framework of policy studies.

By drawing on social harm perspectives, our courses examine conventionally defined crimes along with other problem activities or behaviours that may not be criminalised but still cause extensive harm to individuals and society. This provides you with a critical and informed understanding of crime and the criminal justice system, as well as wider social and economic questions.

In your first and second years you will take a range of mandatory units that provide a solid foundation in the subject and you will undertake training to develop your problem solving and research skills. You will also choose from a selection of optional units, including a work placement unit.

In your final year you can demonstrate what you have learned in a dissertation on a topic of your choice with the support of an academic supervisor.

The MSci is ideal if you have ambitions to continue in biological research and want a competitive edge in applying for a PhD or research jobs.

Studying biology at Bristol exposes you to the breadth of biological sciences, from enzymes to ecosystems. During your study with us you will gain knowledge of the diversity, evolution, function and interactions between animals, microbes and plants. Our programme reflects the interdisciplinary nature of modern biology, taking into account the past, present and future of life on Earth.

Our biology degree starts broadly and then introduces more choice in years two and three, allowing you to specialise or maintain breadth in your studies depending on your interests.

The additional fourth year of the MSci contains advanced skills training and a substantial research project, which is especially valuable for those aiming for a career in biological sciences.

This course is ideal for students interested in learning more about how to use numbers and data within geography. It provides training in practical and analytical skills, which will enhance your career prospects and provide you with a strong platform for postgraduate study. No prior knowledge of statistical techniques is required.

About two thirds of your studies will follow the single honours BSc Geography course, where you will acquire core knowledge in your subject. You will develop a wide range of geographical and scientific skills, gaining an advanced overview of both human and physical geography in year one, and choosing from a wide range of specialist units in years two and three.

The remaining third of your course will provide interdisciplinary training in quantitative methods. In year one of the quantitative pathway we discuss how numbers and data are used to tell convincing stories in the media and social research. We consider what is meant by segregation and how it can be mapped and measured. Year two offers practical classes in social statistics and applied data analysis, which will develop your skills in numeracy and analysis and enable you to undertake your own individual research project in an area of quantitative social science in year three.

This course takes advantage of the expertise of our staff in the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies. You will study a range of theoretical and practical problems that affect the social world.

You will study the politics of and relationships between countries, communities and individuals, becoming familiar with different views and methods of analysis and how to apply and evaluate them.

Sociology provides expertise in the study of the social world including actions, structures, beliefs, power and representation. By focusing on theoretical ideas and research skills you will be uniquely placed to understand the fast-moving changes of social life.

In year three you can choose to write a research dissertation in either discipline.

Our school encourages synergy between new research and teaching, resulting in a vibrant learning environment. This course combination offers an enriching experience with exciting intellectual challenges.

This course enables you to pursue a career in the accounting profession with the benefit of a year in industry. It provides access to subjects accredited by professional accountancy bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

Alternatively, you may pursue a career in finance or investment banking through our finance-oriented courses.

This is a four-year course underpinned by theory and practice. It aims to foster collaboration and creative thinking in the use of case studies. 

During your placement year you will undertake a paid placement within the accounting function of a large organisation or within an accountancy firm. Previously, students have secured roles at PwC, Grant Thornton, Hazlewoods, and Milsted Langdon. 

Places on the course are allocated on merit depending on first-year examination results and an offer of employment for your placement from a qualifying employer. You can work towards your professional accreditation with ICAEW during your placement year. 

You can also benefit from a range of specialist employability services from the faculty’s Professional Liaison Network.