Bangor University Social Sciences Postgraduate Prospectus 2016-18 by Bangor University

SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE S POSTGRADUATE PR O SPECTUS 2016 - 2018

bangor.ac.uk/so

www.bangor.ac.uk/so

Picture: ÂŠIwan Williams

SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2DG UK Tel: +44(0)1248 382085 Email: socialsciences.pg@bangor.ac.uk

Design: viewcreative.co.uk

3 WELCOME TO BANGOR UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

Dr Martina Feilzer Head of School

WELCOME Bangor University’s School of Social Sciences has provided teaching and research opportunities for 50 years. All our degree schemes offer training in the core principles of social science and in the practice of social research. We offer a portfolio of Masters programmes in Criminology, Health and Social Care, Social Work, Social Policy and Sociology, reflecting the School’s wide-ranging expertise and commitment to high level postgraduate teaching.

Our research degrees (Masters by Research, MPhil, PhD) build on a thorough social science training including training in quantitative and qualitative research methods and analysis as well as training in specialised subject areas – e.g. systematic reviews – that are relevant to the research process. The training provides the context and the skills for the student to undertake an original investigation, culminating in the preparation of a thesis which represents an independent and original contribution to knowledge and scholarship. We have a reputation for research of national and international excellence and the products of this research are continually fed into our courses. Many publications and articles by staff gain international recognition in their particular fields. This means that you will be taught by tutors who are actively researching and publishing in the areas you will study. The applied nature of our programmes prepares students for careers in social sciences and help to promote the career development of professionals.

SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

bangor.ac.uk/so

FREE

in the UK for accommodation (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2015)

the cost of joining our societies & sports clubs

in the UK for student satisfaction (NSS 2015)

Welsh university to establish a campus in London

student satisfaction rating (NSS 2015)

Research at the School of Social Sciences is ranked in the UK's

(REF 2014)

in the UK for student experience (THE Student Experience Survey 2015)

No.

in the UK for clubs & societies (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2015)

the number of nationalities who attend Bangor University

CONTENTS

6 Location 8 MA Comparative Criminology & Criminal Justice 10 MA Criminology & Law 12 MA Criminology & Sociology 14 MA Language Policy & Planning 16 MA Sociology 18 MA Social Policy 20 MA Social Work 22 Research Degrees 24 Preparing a Research Project Proposal 28 Entry Requirements and Application 29 Financial Information 30 International Students

bangor.ac.uk/so

6 THE MENAI SUSPENSION BRIDGE

LOCATION Bangor University is situated in one of the most beautiful and scenic parts of the country. Our location has been described as “the best university setting in the UK” (The Independent’s A-Z of Universities and Higher Education Colleges).

The A55 expressway, which stretches along the North Wales coastline, provides fast and easy access to and from the main UK motorway network and makes some of the UK’s major cities easily accessible. bangor.ac.uk/so

DISTANCE FROM… Manchester

2 hours

Manchester International Airport

1.5 hour

London

3.5 hours

Liverpool

1.5 hour

Chester

1 hour

Dublin

3 hours

THE ‘PONTIO’ ARTS AND INNOVATION CENTRE AT BANGOR UNIVERSITY

A brand new social hub for students as well as an internationally significant centre for learning, innovation and the performing arts, which opened at the end of 2015. In addition to being a new home for our Students’ Union, it includes a theatre, studio theatre, cinema, lecture theatres, exhibition spaces, bar and cafés. www.pontio.co.uk bangor.ac.uk/so

8 MA COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE

MA COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Compulsory Modules • Applied Social Research • The Research Process • C omparative and International Criminal Justice • Transnational Crime • Dissertation

APPLIED SOCIAL RESEARCH

This module delivers specialist training in social research, especially criminological and criminal justice research. It draws upon generic social science research skills and knowledge and applies them to a joint group project. In the group project, students will select the topic in which they will develop their skills as empirical researchers.

THE RESEARCH PROCESS

This module introduces the main varieties of both quantitative and qualitative research in the social sciences. Principles of research design and issues of data collection and analysis are studied.

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While Criminology and Criminal Justice forms one of the most popular social science subjects, the comparative method elicits additional insight. Students have the advantage of a flexible programme, enabling them to develop an international perspective on crime and justice through cross-national approaches and case studies of other societies, and/or ‘cutting edge’ issues in contemporary criminology and criminal justice. The comparative perspective also includes the urban-rural dimension.

MA DISSERTATION

9 MA COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE

COMPARATIVE AND INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE

This module studies criminal justice agencies and institutions comparatively and reflects on research in this area. The focus is on national, comparative, and international research on the police, the criminal courts and the penal system.

TRANSNATIONAL CRIME

Various types of crime are committed transgressing national borders. The module â&#x20AC;&#x153;Transnational Crimeâ&#x20AC;? turns to study their development. Some of those crimes involve highly structured organisations. Covered are topics like international e-crime, people trafficking, and the drugs trade.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Graduates will find employment in a range of organisations dealing with aspects of law enforcement from community crime prevention partnerships, to the police, prison and probation service. The voluntary sector also employs criminologists. Further studies form another avenue, including PhD and subsequent jobs in teaching and research, or qualifying for a career as lawyer. Apart from this, a social science qualification can lead to working in politics and the media, or for business and social enterprises.

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10 MA CRIMINOLOGY & LAW

MA CRIMINOLOGY & LAW Run in conjunction with Bangor Law School, the MA Criminology and Law builds on criminological and legal skills and knowledge so as to provide specialist training in criminological, criminal justice and legal research. The programme enables students to develop an international perspective on crime, justice and law through national and cross-national approaches and case studies of other societies, and/or ‘cutting edge’ issues in contemporary criminology and law.

Compulsory Modules • Transnational Crime • Applied Research in Criminology • Comparative and International Criminal Justice Optional Modules • Children’s Rights and the Law • International Human Rights Law • International Criminal Law • Forensic Linguistics in Court • International Law of Armed Conflict Plus a Dissertation on a topic related to Criminology

Half of the compulsory modules will be delivered by Bangor Law School with the other half delivered by the School of Social Sciences, giving a total of 60 credits for Law and 60 for Criminology.

This programme is also available as an LLM in Law and Criminology. The LLM option will follow a similar structure as above and will require students to submit their Dissertation on a topic related to Law. For information about the LLM in Law and Criminology go to: www.bangor.ac.uk/law/postgraduates bangor.ac.uk/so

11 MA CRIMINOLOGY & LAW

FORENSIC LINGUISTICS IN COURT

This module focuses on established principles and theories of linguistics as they apply to discourse which occurs in the court room; the use of forensic linguistics as an expertise; and the analysis of the different types of language found in the court room. The aim is to make law and criminology students aware of what is happening at the linguistic level.

INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL LAW

This module will provide students with a balanced and thorough understanding of the fundamentals of international criminal law. It will take students through the evolution of modern international criminal law, the underlying policy and philosophical underpinnings, substantive international criminal law and substantive international criminal procedure.

INTERNATIONAL LAW OF ARMED CONFLICT

This module aims to advance critical understanding of the principles of international law applicable to armed conflicts. The focus of the module will be on the highly developed body of rules regulating the conduct of hostilities and the law governing the protection of the human person in armed conflict.

APPLIED RESEARCH IN CRIMINOLOGY

This module delivers specialist training in criminological research. It introduces generic social science research skills and knowledge and applies them to a joint group project. In the group project, students will select the topic in which they will develop their skills as empirical researchers.

COMPARATIVE AND INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE

TRANSNATIONAL CRIME

CHILDREN’S RIGHTS AND THE LAW

You will critically examine the effectiveness of the international and domestic legal provisions protecting children’s rights.

INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS LAW

This module will provide you with a thorough understanding of the international and regional systems for the protection of human rights, such as the United Nations.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Graduates will find employment in a range of organisations dealing with aspects of law and crime from community crime prevention partnerships, to the police, prison and probation service. Further studies form another avenue, including PhD and subsequent jobs in teaching and research, or qualifying for a career as lawyer. Apart from this, the qualification can lead to working in politics, or for business and social enterprises. bangor.ac.uk/so

12 MA CRIMINOLOGY & SOCIOLOGY

MA CRIMINOLOGY & SOCIOLOGY

Compulsory Modules • The Research Process • Applied Social Research Optional Modules • C omparative and International Criminal Justice • T ransnational Crime • Sociology of Everyday Life • Culture, Race and Civilisation • Nationalism and Minorities Plus a Dissertation

THE RESEARCH PROCESS

This module introduces the main varieties of both quantitative and qualitative research in the social sciences. Principles of research design and issues of data collection and analysis are studied.

APPLIED SOCIAL RESEARCH

This module delivers specialist training in social research, especially in sociological and criminological research. It draws upon generic social science research skills and knowledge and applies them to a joint group project. In the group project,

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This course combines the School of Social Sciences’ expertise in criminology and sociology and explores the sociological context of issues in criminology. A wide range of criminology and sociology subjects are studied in order to develop knowledge and understanding of a broad spectrum of topics within this field including crime; organisations and administrations in the field of criminal justice; the social causes and consequences of crime; social change and social structures; culture and identity; and related issues. The broad yet specialised nature of this degree allows students to develop advanced and specialised knowledge and skills in criminological and sociological research. students will select the topic in which they will develop their skills as empirical researchers.

COMPARATIVE AND INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE

13 MA CRIMINOLOGY & SOCIOLOGY

TRANSNATIONAL CRIME

Various types of crime are committed transgressing national borders. The module “Transnational Crime” turns to study their development. Some of those crimes involve highly structured organizations. Covered are topics like international e-crime, people trafficking, and the drugs trade.

SOCIOLOGY OF EVERYDAY LIFE

The Module deals with theories of everyday life, for example those focusing on face-toface communication. Through examination of the works of Goffman, Garfinkel, Sacks and others we attend to various aspects of the ‘interaction order’.

CULTURE, RACE AND CIVILISATION

The module explores normative and descriptive concepts of culture, the dichotomy of culture and civilisation, and the dialectical tension between all of these. Culture appears in a number of different contexts: for example as promise of Enlightenment, or as social reality of the everyday. The relation between “multiculturalism” and ideas of “nation” and “race” will be part of the discussion.

NATIONALISM AND MINORITIES

This module will examine key issues and debates concerning the growing claims by ethnic and national minorities and indigenous peoples for distinct language, territorial and other minority rights and recognition within nation-states and beyond. The relationships between nationalism, citizenship and minority rights will be considered with reference to empirical examples.

MA DISSERTATION

The dissertation is undertaken on completion of the taught modules. It is valued at 60 credits (one-third of the MA degree) and will be around 20,000 words in length. Under guidance of a dissertation tutor, students will work independently on a topic of their choice. This may be a piece of empirical research including primary or secondary data analysis or a theoretical dissertation.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Graduates will find employment in a range of organisations dealing with aspects of law enforcement from community crime prevention partnerships, to the police, prison and probation service. Further studies form another avenue, including PhD and subsequent jobs in teaching and research. Apart from this, a social science qualification can lead to working in media and politics, or for business and social enterprises.

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14 MA LANGUAGE POLICY & PLANNING

MA LANGUAGE POLICY & PLANNING Compulsory Modules • The Research Process • Language Planning Optional Modules (choose 3) • H awliau Ieithyddol (Welsh medium module) • P ublic Sector Management • W ork Based Learning • Current Issues in Bilingualism • Nationalism and Minorities • H anes y Gymraeg (Welsh medium module) • A gweddau ar Ddwyieithrwydd (Welsh medium module) • A pplied Social Research Plus a Dissertation

HAWLIAU IEITHYDDOL

(only available through the medium of Welsh)

This module examines the field of language rights. It will explore the debate surrounding language rights in relation to the historic policy framework and the wider context of minority rights.

CURRENT ISSUES IN BILINGUALISM

This module introduces bilingualism in both children and adults. It explores the controversies surrounding models of bilingual acquisition and adult language use and gives students an opportunity to conduct their own research projects either individually or as part of a team. bangor.ac.uk/so

The number of bilingual and multilingual communities and workplaces is on the rise, and language planning is a field of growing importance. For this reason, there is an increased demand for individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to put in place strategies and systems that promote linguistic equality. Language is becoming a priority for many fields, such as development, planning, education, health, IT and marketing. As this continues to grow, it will be necessary for staff in a wide variety of professions to develop knowledge and skills in the field of language planning.

HANES Y GYMRAEG

(only available through the medium of Welsh)

This module investigates the history of the Welsh language and is suitable for those who have no previous knowledge of the topic.

AGWEDDAU AR DDWYIEITHRWYDD

(only available through the medium of Welsh)

This module explores theoretical attitudes to bilingualism and multilingualism in relation to a range of situations, including that in Wales. The module will focus on the linguistic perspective, but will also consider ethnographic, educational, language planning and psycholinguistic attitudes towards bilingualism.

15 MA LANGUAGE POLICY & PLANNING

LANGUAGE PLANNING

This module will place language planning in its international context, by examining various examples of language planning in different countries.

NATIONALISM AND MINORITIES

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGEMENT

This module will explore the complex and challenging world of public sector management.

WORK BASED LEARNING

The aim of this module is personal and professional development, using workbased problems to develop knowledge and skills appropriate to language planning in the workplace.

THE RESEARCH PROCESS

This module introduces the main varieties of both quantitative and qualitative research in the social sciences. Principles of research design and issues of data collection and analysis are studied.

APPLIED SOCIAL RESEARCH

This module aims to provide training in social science research with a focus on the specialist degree studied. It draws upon generic social science research skills and knowledge and applies them to an empirical group project. Further information about the MA Language Policy and Planning is available in a bilingual leaflet. To request a copy, please email: socialsciences.pg@bangor.ac.uk

MA DISSERTATION

The dissertation is normally around 20,000 words in length for MA degrees. Students will receive full support of lecturing staff throughout the process, from the planning stage through to the final stages of writing up the final version. Every student is allocated a supervisor who will oversee and provide advice and guidance on research design, methodology, results, drafting and final dissertation submission. Previous MA dissertation topics have included: • Young People’s Use of Welsh on Interactive Websites • Language Practices in the Workplace: the Criminal Justice System • Language Use within Mixed-Language Families in Wales and Brittany • ‘Attitude to Clients’ Welsh language choice issues in Dementia Care’ • Contradicting the Census: Exploring Residents’ Perspectives on the Welsh Language in Clynnog • An Evaluation of Gwynedd Education Policy • North Wales Police: A Case Study in increasing Bilingual Practices • Language Transmission in Wales: A Case Study of the TWF project

CAREER PROSPECTS

Graduates will find employment in a range of sectors valuing critical linguistic, policy, theoretical, analytical and methods skills. Further studies are another possible option including PhD and subsequent jobs in teaching, research and policy evaluation. An MA in Language Policy and Planning can lead to working in various fields such as local and national government, public, private or third sector organisations in Wales and beyond. bangor.ac.uk/so

16 MA SOCIOLOGY

MA SOCIOLOGY This degree is intended for students with a general interest in sociology who wish to update, extend and deepen their knowledge and understand current developments in the field. The programme aims to provide students with opportunities to expand their knowledge of the discipline by engaging with contemporary research and by undertaking historical and comparative study.

THE RESEARCH PROCESS

This module introduces the main varieties of both quantitative and qualitative research in the social sciences. Principles of research design and issues of data collection and analysis are studied.

APPLIED SOCIAL RESEARCH

This module delivers specialist training in sociological research. It draws upon generic social science research skills and knowledge and applies them to a joint group project. In the group project, students will select the topic in which they will develop their skills as empirical researchers.

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Compulsory Modules • The Research Process • Applied Social Research Optional Modules • Researching Community • Nationalism and Minorities • Sociology of Everyday Life • Culture, Race and Civilisation Plus a Dissertation

RESEARCHING COMMUNITY

This module examines the developments in the field of community research and related theoretical and policy debates surrounding the application of ideas of ‘community’ to current economic and social changes. The module focuses on four main themes: • Conceptual issues • Empirical applications • Policy issues • Community methodology

NATIONALISM AND MINORITIES

17 MA SOCIOLOGY

SOCIOLOGY OF EVERYDAY LIFE

The module deals with theories of everyday life, for example those focusing on face-toface communication. Through examination of the works of Goffman, Garfinkel, Sacks and others we attend to various aspects of the ‘interaction order’.

CULTURE, RACE AND CIVILISATION

MA DISSERTATION

The dissertation is undertaken on completion of the taught modules. It is valued at 60 credits (one-third of the MA degree) and will be around 20,000 words in length. Part-time students in employment may choose a topic related to their profession and an area in which they wish to develop further expertise and specialisation. Under guidance of a dissertation tutor, students will undertake their MA dissertation work independently on a topic of their choice. This may be a piece of empirical research including primary or secondary data analysis or a theoretical dissertation.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Graduates will find employment in a range of sectors valuing critical theoretical, analytical and methods skills. Further studies form another avenue, including PhD and subsequent jobs in teaching and research. An MA in Sociology can lead to working in politics and the media, or for business and social enterprises.

bangor.ac.uk/so

18 MA SOCIAL POLICY

Social policies are ever changing. This degree programme takes stock of the developments and relates them to social, economic and political factors. Theoretical perspectives and methodological implications are introduced. A range of contemporary social policy issues will be discussed. Policies and practices within and across societies are compared. Ethical dimensions of social policy will be pointed out and specialist research training provided.

©Iwan Williams

MA SOCIAL POLICY

Compulsory Modules • The Research Process • Key Issues in Social Policy • Health Policies Optional Modules • Researching Community • Nationalism and Minorities • Policy Research and Evaluation • Key Issues in International Social Work • Applied Social Research Plus a Dissertation

THE RESEARCH PROCESS

This module introduces the main varieties of both quantitative and qualitative research in the social sciences. Principles of research design and issues of data collection and analysis are studied.

KEY ISSUES IN SOCIAL POLICY

This module extends and deepens knowledge and understanding of key issues in contemporary social policy. Links between theoretical analysis in welfare and empirical enquiry in social policy are made, and key issues, debates and concepts in social policy analysis and evaluation are explored. bangor.ac.uk/so

HEALTH POLICIES

This module adopts a comparative approach to the study of health policies in Britain and internationally. Students will consider the politics of health and will develop an understanding of the dynamics of power between professionals, administrators and patients.

RESEARCHING COMMUNITY

19 MA SOCIAL POLICY

NATIONALISM AND MINORITIES

POLICY RESEARCH AND EVALUATION

Monitoring and evaluation of policy initiatives has become increasingly important. This module aims to develop full complement of skills required to successfully undertake specialist research and robust evaluation that will inform future policy.

KEY ISSUES IN INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL WORK

The purpose of the International Social Work module is to widen students’ understanding of the differing models, traditions and welfare contexts of social work.

APPLIED SOCIAL RESEARCH

This module delivers specialist training in social policy research. It draws upon generic social science research skills and knowledge and applies them to a joint group project. In the group project, students will select the social policyrelated topic in which they will develop their skills as empirical researchers.

MA DISSERTATION

The dissertation is normally around 20,000 words in length for MA degrees. Students will receive full support from lecturing staff throughout the process, from the planning stage through to the final stages of writing up the final version. Every student is allocated a supervisor who will oversee and provide advice and guidance on research design, methodology, results, drafting and final dissertation submission. Recent MA dissertation topics have included: • Graduate unemployment in Nigeria • Maternal mortality in Malawi • Food poverty in the UK

CAREER PROSPECTS

The welfare and health sectors form the primary field of employment for graduates. Other areas of the public service also attract social policy graduates. A PhD can lead to a career in teaching and research. Apart from this, a social science qualification opens up a multitude of job opportunities related to politics and the media, or for business and social enterprises.

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20 MA SOCIAL WORK

MA SOCIAL WORK Compulsory Modules • The Life Course • V alues and Ethics for Social Work Practice • S ocial Policy for Social Work Practice • T he Research Process • K nowledge and Skills Base for Social Work • L aw for Social Work (1) • S ocial Work with Children, Young People & Families • C ommunity Care • L aw for Social Work (2) • R eflections on Research Plus a Dissertation Placements Students will also be required to complete two placements in Year 1 (20 day placement and 80 day placement) and one placement in Year 2 (100 day placement).

The fundamental intention of the programme is to equip students to take up positions within the professionally qualified social work workforce. The overall objective is to provide a programme which satisfies the requirements of the Care Council’s ‘Framework for the Degree in Social Work in Wales’ (2012). To achieve this, the programme of study includes a suite of core academic modules and a requirement of at least 200 days on placement over the two years. The programme will have a Welsh and English route. Students will be able to pursue their studies entirely through the medium of Welsh or English. All the modules will be delivered in Welsh and English. All assessments can be presented in either Welsh or English.

Further information about the MA Social Work is available in a bilingual leaflet. To request a copy, please email: socialwork@bangor.ac.uk

THE LIFE COURSE

This module presents a life course approach which is grounded in sociological, psychological and social perspectives. It enables an understanding of the factors which render a person vulnerable and those factors and circumstances which promote positive development and resilience in a person.

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VALUES AND ETHICS FOR SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE

This module will provide students with an understanding of how social work values play a core role in their own practice, and in social work decision-making more broadly, in a diverse society. The module will introduce students to the challenges posed by dilemmas and conflicts within social work practice. Ethical principles and the Care Council of Wales Code of Professional Practice will be used to explore issues raised.

21 MA SOCIAL WORK

SOCIAL POLICY FOR SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE

The module deals with the context of social policy and considers why the subject is relevant to social work. A number of key themes and considerations in the field will be dealt with, such as the rights and responsibilities of citizens, social inequalities, and poverty and social exclusion.

THE RESEARCH PROCESS

This module aims to provide postgraduate level training in the main varieties of both quantitative and qualitative research in the context of social work. It is intended to work towards preparing students for their social work dissertation during the second year.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS BASE FOR SOCIAL WORK

This module covers the major areas of social work theory, evidence-based practice, service user and carersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; knowledge and messages from research. It will explore social work theories such as task-centred and crisis work, as well as other theories identified within the following typologies: Payne (2005), Howe (2009), Becket (2006) and Gray & Webb (2009).

LAW FOR SOCIAL WORK (1)

This module aims to achieve three basic objectives, namely to provide a grounding in social work law, to introduce students to the methodology and implications of legal intervention, and to develop an ability to apply the law in relation to both adult and child safeguarding.

SOCIAL WORK WITH CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE & FAMILIES

This module offers a broad foundation in the key aspects of work with children, young people and families, and will address some aspects of practice in more depth. It builds on learning gained in other modules about child policy in Wales; the impact of poverty on children; development over the life course; and use of research to inform practice.

COMMUNITY CARE

This module will focus on the knowledge, legislation and policy context that shape community care and social work services. It will critically evaluate the range of epistemological models that inform the knowledge base of practice in the areas of disabilities, mental health and older people.

LAW FOR SOCIAL WORK (2)

This module aims to build on the 1st Year Module, and increase knowledge, understanding an application of the law to social work practice.

REFLECTIONS ON RESEARCH

To provide postgraduate level training in empirical and literature based research in the context of social work. This module runs in parallel with and supports the second year Social Work Dissertation module.

SOCIAL WORK DISSERTATION

This module provides students with an opportunity to conduct a small-scale yet significant piece of individual research supervised by a research supervisor. Students identify a research question, collect and analyse data that bears on the research question, utilising an appropriate analytical framework. They then address the research question in the light of their findings. The research undertaken is presented in the format of a 20,000 (max) word dissertation employing the usual conventions. bangor.ac.uk/so

22 RESEARCH DEGREES

RESEARCH DEGREES PhD, MPhil, MASTERS BY RESEARCH The Masters by Research, MPhil and PhD are higher degrees awarded on successful completion of advanced training and research leading to a thesis. The aim of a research degree is to provide broadly-based social science training as well as specific training in specialised subject areas that are relevant to the research project. Overall, the training provides the context and the skills for the student to undertake an original investigation, culminating in the preparation of a thesis which represents an independent and original contribution to knowledge.

RESEARCH TRAINING

The pattern of a student’s research training at postgraduate level depends on several factors: • The extent to which areas of formal training (e.g. in quantitative methods) have already been successfully undertaken • The need for subject-specific training at an appropriate level bangor.ac.uk/so

The Masters by Research (MARes) is a one year programme, at the end of which students will be expected to present a piece of work of 40,00050,000 words in length. The MPhil is 2 years full time (3 years part time), the awarding of which is based on submission of a thesis of 60,000 words and satisfactory performance in a viva voce examination. The PhD is 3 years full time (6 years part time), the awarding of which is based on submission of a thesis of between 80,000 and 100,000 words and satisfactory performance in a viva voce examination.

• T he extent to which personal skills development has already taken place (e.g. through previous work in a professional context) Examples of current PhD students’ research topics include: • The impact of cultural, structural and socio-environment influences on the process of military socialisation for recruits in the British Army

23 RESEARCH DEGREES

• M onopoly capitalism and Wales • Becoming the citizen of the world - sociological study of biographical narratives of new cosmopolitans • Female suicide in conservative Kurdish families • Trends of youth homelessness • From prison to community – restorative justice and rehabilitation

RESEARCH THEMES

Research in the School of Social Sciences has 4 main themes: • Communities and Social Networks • Minority Languages and Cultures • Policy Evaluation Research • Crime and Civic Society Our staff have a wide array of research interests and may not work solely in any one of these areas. You can view details by staff member on our website: www.bangor.ac.uk/so

COMMUNITIES AND SOCIAL NETWORKS

Work in this area includes research into: • Community and locality • Activism and citizenship in rural areas • Lifestyles and environment • Civil society in Wales • Environment and sustainability • Food and farming cultures • Later life, generations and the life course • The shaping of European identities

POLICY EVALUATION RESEARCH

Work in this area includes research into: • Carer and patient careers • Pathways and social support networks • User involvement • Homelessness • Social exclusion in rural contexts • Inequalities • Voluntary sector networks • Evaluation of social care policies

CRIME AND CIVIC SOCIETY

Work in this area includes research into: • Support for the police • Political violence and terrorism • Media and public opinion • Begging in North Africa and South Asia • Popular legal culture • Violence in intimate relationships • Rural criminology • Postcolonial societies, crime and deviance • Theoretical criminology • Criminal justice systems • Lay participation in the administration of justice

MINORITY LANGUAGES AND CULTURES

Work in this area includes research into: • Language • Migration • Identity and belonging

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24 PREPARING A RESEARCH PROJECT PROPOSAL

PREPARING A RESEARCH PROJECT PROPOSAL The purpose of your proposal is to show that you have a relevant theme, a viable project and the competence to carry it out. The information is vital when we evaluate your proposed study and decide if we have the right staff expertise to supervise you.

TITLE

This should be concise and descriptive.

BACKGROUND

You should explain the context for your research, the issues it is concerned with, and the reasons why the research is important and original. You may need to describe how it builds on your previous academic work or professional experience. You must include references to the existing research and scholarly literature in your field of research.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM OR RESEARCH QUESTIONS

Clearly formulate the problem you propose to research. This should be expressed as an answerable question, or set of questions. The problem should be substantial but manageable within the timescale of a research degree and it should have originality. bangor.ac.uk/so

THE FORMAT AND LENGTH OF THE PROPOSAL IS LIKELY TO VARY ACCORDING TO THE TYPE OF PROJECT. TYPICALLY A PROPOSAL IS NO LESS THAN 1,500 WORDS (3-4 PAGES) LONG AND WILL COVER THE POINTS DETAILED BELOW. DESIGN OF THE PROJECT

Describe how the project will be structured and where it will take place. Key design decisions (say between experimental, comparative, longitudinal or case study approaches) should be justified according to the way in which you have defined the research problem. If your project will be testing hypotheses you should state them here.

METHODOLOGY

In this section describe your approach to collecting and analysing data. A proposal may plan to use existing data, gather primary data or do both. Explain the procedures and techniques you plan to use: the nature of the data; the methods of data sampling and collection; sources of information. Here you will demonstrate your knowledge of alternative social scientific methods and make the case that your approach is the most suitable for your research question. Consider questions of access to data sources and the skills that you will need to carry out the research.

25 PREPARING A RESEARCH PROJECT PROPOSAL

RESOURCES AND ETHICAL CLEARANCE

Will your research comply with the agreed international standards for good practice in social research? Using published ethical guidelines shows that you are aware of the specific documents and clearances you will need.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

You should map out a schedule for your project, from the start date onwards, showing when you expect to conduct periods of fieldwork (if applicable) and the time required for data analysis and writing up your results.

REFERENCES

You should include a list of the references cited in your proposal, using Harvard notation. This will be useful for potential supervisors to evaluate your knowledge of the research topic.

IMPORTANT NOTE

When you have prepared a draft of your proposal show it to a teacher or researcher and ask for advice on how to improve it. You can also ask staff in the School of Social Sciences with interests in the same research area as your own for their feedback.

bangor.ac.uk/so

26 PREPARING A RESEARCH PROJECT PROPOSAL

THE RESEARCH EXPERIENCE: INITIAL STAGES

To start out as a research student is to embark on an exciting and challenging journey. In graduate education in the UK, a candidate for a research degree is treated as a junior colleague who will grow quickly out of a pupil-teacher relationship into a professional who can make an independent contribution within the research community. Bangor University and the School of Social Sciences offer an induction programme for new research students at the beginning of the academic session. This is a vital opportunity to meet not just with your supervisor but with other members of staff and current research students (if you start at any other time of the year you will have induction meetings with key people as well as your supervisor).

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

New research students are expected to have already acquired the essential skills to begin their research, usually through a specialised Masters course. However, your training needs will be assessed and it is expected that you will complete additional courses alongside your research. The courses will help you to develop the skills and competencies that you need to become accepted as a professionally trained researcher in your subject. It is important for research students to participate in the wider research community. You will have contact with other students through shared working spaces, courses and networking with researchers who have similar interests.

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The School of Social Sciences also provides a series of open research seminars for all staff and postgraduate students. The School of Social Sciences is well connected to the Wales ESRC Doctoral Training Centre and to national and international research networks such as the Wales Institute of Social & Economic Research, Data & Methods (WISERD), based at Bangor University.

RESEARCH SUPERVISORS

Every research student is allocated a supervisor before they register and they will both meet regularly. The responsibility of the supervisor is to offer expert guidance and support for their research students. The style of supervision can vary but the early meetings are crucial for establishing an effective working relationship. Interaction in the first few months will be around the definition of the project, advice on literature and sources, development of research skills and research planning. You will need to follow a timetable of work agreed with your supervisor and take the initiative in raising questions and making suitable arrangements for contact. At about six months from the start, and at sixmonth intervals after that, the School will arrange a supervisory committee of several members of staff to monitor and provide feedback on your project.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;My advice to anyone thinking of pursuing a Research degree is to choose a topic that can sustain your interests and one that you feel has unanswered questions that maybe you can answer. Match this topic with your supervisors, as a good supervisor is worth their weight in gold!â&#x20AC;? TERESA CREW, PHD IN SOCIOLOGY

Situated between the Snowdonia Mountains and the Menai Strait, Bangor University is undoubtedly one of the most attractive places to study in Britain.

SUNDAY TIMES UNIVERSITY GUIDE

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28 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS & APPLICATION

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS & APPLICATION For entry to all taught postgraduate programmes applicants should have a good undergraduate degree in the discipline or a related subject. An upper second class (or equivalent) is desirable, but applications from candidates with a lower second class degree and professional qualifications and/or appropriate experience will also be considered.

FULL-TIME & PART-TIME STUDY

For UK and EU students all our programmes are offered on a full-time or part-time basis (with the exception of MA Social Work, which is a full-time, two-year programme). A full-time taught Masters will last one year, while a part-time MA will take two years to complete. For international students only full-time study is available.

Applicants for entry onto the Masters by Research should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in the discipline or a related subject. Applicants for entry to MPhil programmes should hold a first class or upper second class in the discipline or a closely related subject. Applicants for entry to PhD programmes must hold a Masters degree in a relevant discipline.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

To apply, complete the online application form at: www.bangor.ac.uk/courses/postgrad/ application The taught postgraduate degree programmes (including MARes degrees) start in late September. Applications can be submitted at any time during the preceding twelve months, but it is best to apply early. We reserve the right to close to new applications when our courses become full. Applications for the MARes, MPhil and PhD degrees can be submitted at any time during the calendar year. Applicants should enclose a short summary (about 1,500-2,000 words) outlining your intended research.

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29 FINANCIAL INFORMATION

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

TUITION FEES

UK / EU Fee (per annum)

International Fee (per annum)

MA degrees

£5,000

£12,250

MA Social Work (2 year degree)

£5,250p.a.

N/A

MPhil / PhD degrees

£4,052p.a.

£12,000p.a.

*The above tuition fees were correct at the time of going to print (January 2016). For current information on tuition fees: www.bangor.ac.uk/fees

SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS

The School offers a number of scholarships for UK/EU postgraduate students, ranging from £1,000 up to the full amount of UK/ EU fees. Scholarships are allocated on a competitive basis and all UK/EU students are eligible to apply. For details on how to apply for a scholarship, please see: www.bangor.ac.uk.so/postgraduate/funding

INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Each successful international applicant will be automatically considered for a Scholarship of £2,500 or higher. Applicants are NOT required to complete a separate scholarship application form. Scholarship awards will be clearly stated on the offer/ admission letter. bangor.ac.uk/so

30 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS We welcome applications from students from all over the world and are proud to have a multinational student body. We are aware of the challenges that face international students in moving away from home to study. The Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dedicated International Student Welfare Office offers support prior to your arrival and throughout your time at Bangor.

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Students from countries worldwide choose to study at Bangor every year, and make up 10% of the student population. The lower cost of living and safety of Bangor makes it a popular choice for both students and their families. The UK is an ideal destination for Masters degree study as you can complete your degree in one year and either continue with your studies or start working and earning money sooner.

31 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

AIRPORT PICK-UP

In order to take some stress away from students arriving into a new country for the first time, Bangor University offers an airport pick-up service from Manchester International Airport for students arriving at our ‘peak times’. For more information, please see: www.bangor.ac.uk/ international/support/airportpickup

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES

International students are generally required to provide evidence of English language proficiency. We normally require IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for MA degrees, while for research degrees (MARes, MPhil, PhD), we ask for a score of 6.5. If you have not yet achieved the level required by the University, you can undertake English Language and Study Skills courses at the University’s English Language Centre for Overseas Students (ELCOS) before starting your academic programme. To reach IELTS 6.0 level (with no individual score lower than 5.5) by September, you may undertake the following courses. Choose your existing IELTS score from the table below to find the right course for you: LEVEL

DURATION

START DATE(s)

PRICE

IELTS 4.5

42 weeks

September

£9,500

IELTS 5.0

30 weeks

January/September

£7,500

IELTS 5.5

20 weeks

January/April/June

£4,750

IELTS 6.0

12 weeks

July/September

£3,100

IELTS 6.0

8 weeks

July

£2,100

At the end of the course, you are not required to undertake a further external English test. Our highly experienced and qualified staff will conduct a test and provide an official report for the University. Further details of English language courses can be obtained from: ELCOS (English Language Centre for Overseas Students) T: +44 (0)1248 382252 E: elcos@bangor.ac.uk elcos.bangor.ac.uk

*All information within this brochure was correct at time of going to press (January 2016). Minor changes may occur to reflect recent developments.

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SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2DG Tel: +44 (0) 1248 382085 Email: socialsciences.pg@bangor.ac.uk  facebook.com/bangorsocsci  @BangorSocSci bangor.ac.uk/so