This programme is a structured blend of graduate education in theory and methods, and supervised research. The taught elements of the programme draw on existing modules offered to postgraduate students in the Departments of Politics and Public Administration, and Sociology, in appropriate combinations to deliver broader research skills for research students. This combination of modules is supplemented, as appropriate, by external research methodology training and the development of generic skills. Modules from the two departments will be supplemented by external research teaching. The focus in the first year of the programme is on enhancing knowledge through taking relevant modules, in the last three years, research becomes the focus.<br>Provides a core taught programme in social science so that students can locate their research in the wider context of social science,<br>Provides a core programme that will give graduates skills to cope with changing social and economic demands for social science research,<br>Provides specialist disciplinary teaching for graduates so that they can teach and develop research to the best international standards,<br>Facilitates student research that is at the forefront of social science methodological developments and subject specific knowledge,<br>Generates student research work that will contribute to the redefinition of existing social science knowledge.