Master of Applied Social Research

Deakin's Master of Applied Social Research has been designed in response to the needs of government and industry for specialist researchers with the capability to engage meaningfully and effectively with the communities they serve. It provides relevant training relating to the demand for high quality information in changing environments, including social policy, community settings, consultancies and private organisations.

The focus of the program is on building a comprehensive suite of skills and knowledge that can be applied to the social research context. Course content covers the stages of conceptualising and planning research (including ethical, cultural and theoretical dimensions), as well as the requisite skills and techniques to carry out qualitative and quantitative research (data collection, manipulation, analysis and dissemination). Students will examine conceptual and theoretical frameworks informing the research environment as a means to operate effectively within it.

Along with offering a solid foundation in quantitative and qualitative social research techniques, the course allows you the unique option of specialising in your preferred research field, with pathways in health, gender, communication and public policy.

Elective units enable study in program planning and evaluation, policy analysis, needs assessment and strategic planning, health promotion and health program planning.

Your career

The Master of Applied Social Research is designed to equip graduates with practical and analytical skills in quantitative and qualitative research methods. It aims to develop holistic social researchers who are confident and competent in designing, conducting, interpreting and presenting research.

The Master of Applied Social Research qualification will give you the knowledge and skills to make a difference through practical training in devising, conducting, analysing and communicating research.

The Minor Thesis provides a pathway to doctoral studies on Australia and abroad.

Employment opportunities

This course provides training in applied social research for those seeking a current or future career role involving:

• undertaking 'hands-on' specialist researcher roles
• managing people or projects requiring broad research skills and knowledge
• influencing policy and decision-makers
• developing and evaluating programs
• obtaining support and funding for programs

It is designed for graduates seeking to develop a career path in organisations that undertake social research such as:

• Government (Federal, State, Local) departments and authorities
• Health services
• NGOs
• Research consulting

Teaching staff

Dr Karen Lane | Mr Neville Millen | Dr Kim Toffoletti

 

Why choose Deakin University?

Flexibility
We know that postgraduate study is a big commitment. Deakin's postgraduate courses are genuinely flexible, to help you fit your studies in with workplace and personal commitments. You can study from home, in your own time, using flexible online classrooms and mailed library resources. Regardless of where you live, resources can be posted to off-campus students, or accessed from the Library's comprehensive electronic collection.

Quality
Quality is evident in all aspects of our courses, from the standard of study materials to the teaching staff, who are leaders in their field. Ranked among the best in the world, the Deakin Library service has set a benchmark for Australian universities.

Technology
As a Deakin postgraduate student you will have access to the best new technologies. Email, chat groups, podcasts and the internet are widely used and Deakin's lecture streaming service gives you online access to recorded lectures for many units. The University has produced its own Software Essentials DVD to support online communication. All units offer a dedicated teaching and learning site Deakin Studies Online.