MA in Population Studies – (M.A.)

Aims of the Course

* To provide an understanding of the processes of historical and contemporary population change, in developed and in developing countries.
* To provide an analytical skills base for the collection, management and use of population data.
* To provide the opportunity to apply the knowledge and techniques of population analysis in the study of a particular demographic problem.
* To provide training in a basic range of competences in population analysis as a platform for public and private sector employment.
* To provide training in a basic range of competences in population analysis and the social sciences generally as a platform for more specialist research in the field.

Relevance of the Course

The course will be attractive to those with an interest in population studies:

* Recent graduates seeking employment in directly related fields: many of the graduates of the programme have gone into employment in health service or data management posts, which require understanding of population processes and analysis. Others have taken the degree as career enhancement within their own organizations.
* Overseas students: the MA (Research Methodology) in Population Studies is ideal for European, North American and other overseas students wishing to study in the UK for a year.
* Intending PhD students should take the MA (Research Methodology) in Population Studies to ensure that they meet criteria for research training.

Course Structure

There are two pathways for the MA in Population Studies, either the MA or the MA in Research Methodology. Both pathways include core courses on population studies. The MA allows students to take further optional courses of relevance to a range of issues in population studies. The MA in Research Methodology includes further modules on research techniques and analysis. The MA in Research Methodology is recommended for students either wishing to pursue further postgraduate research or a career in research.