Level 6 Social Researcher

Who is this course for?

This apprenticeship is for organisations that use evidence from social research activities to brief policymakers and customers, to provide informative and timely insights to inform decision making. It is for public, private and third sector organisations, from small to large employers, including central and local government, research organisations, charities, and academia.

This apprenticeship is aimed at employees who use a range of research and analysis methods, advise on research designs, assess the appropriateness of different methodologies, and evaluate the quality of evidence and apply structured thinking to critically assess problems, drawing on their social research expertise and knowledge to evaluate the strengths and limitations of different research approaches.

This course is for those who have no experience of working in social research roles as well as those who are already working in the field but are looking to upskill their expertise. They may be looking to join the programme straight from school, re-train from their existing career or to extend their existing skills further. An interest in becoming a social researcher is what is important.

Benefits of this course

The University of Kent is the recognised leader in the field of apprenticeship delivery and in the field of social research. We work with employers nationwide, of any size, to fill skills gaps in their businesses. You employ the apprentice, and we work with you to:

·   Provide an academic programme of study

·   Support you and your apprentice

We can also offer advice on funding, advertising, screening and recruitment.

Duration and Commitment

Our blended learning approach, combining online and face-to-face learning allows your apprentices to thrive in the workplace while gaining a degree. At least 6 hours per week of the apprentice’s normal working paid time should be spent on off-the-job learning away from their usual work tasks. Apprentices participate in the following off-the-job learning:

Online learning:

·       Live real-time online classes.

·       Online distance learning materials that will typically take 6 hours per week to complete.

Face-to-face learning:

·  Block residentials in Canterbury in September of Year 1, Year 2, Year 3 and Year 4.

·  1 day-long face-to-face teaching session per quarter in London (this may be repeated in other locations depending on employer demand).

Entry Requirements

The University of Kent welcomes applications from talented candidates of all backgrounds and ages. However, applicants will need to demonstrate that they can communicate effectively in English in an academic environment and can work at Level 2 in mathematics before the start of the course.

As a guide, applicants should normally hold at least five GCSE passes including mathematics at grade 4 or above and English at grade 4 or above, or the equivalent. Apprentices will normally have at least 96 UCAS points (three Cs at A level/T level core pass C) or an equivalent academic or professional qualification.

Apprentices do not always fit traditional academic or career paths. We consider this to be a positive aspect of diversity, not a hurdle. We are looking for students who have a wide range of experiences to share. If you are unsure of the suitability for our apprenticeship course for your employee, we are happy to give feedback before you make a formal application. We can also advise you on other entry requirements to set to fulfil your business needs.

Apprenticeship requirements

For all higher level apprenticeships in England, it is a requirement set by the Education and Skills Funding Agency that an apprentice holds or achieves an approved Level 2 qualification in mathematics and English before they complete the apprenticeship. Such evidence can include GCSE grade C/4 or higher.

Course content

Year 1

Literature reviews and research with documents

Introduction to qualitative methods

Survey design and data collection

Research, ethics and impact

Year 2

Working in a research team

Introduction to quantitative methods

Qualitative methods (advanced)

Reporting and communicating research

Writing a research proposal

Year 3

Quantitative methods (advanced)

Evidence-led policy making

Learning and development for the workplace

Commercial awareness

Leading and managing a research project

Year 4

Evaluation methods

End-point assessment

Assessment

Apprentices will engage with a broad range of assessments focused on problem-based learning and applied project work. Examples of these assessments are:

·       Individual and group projects,

·       Presentations,

·       Practical assessments,

·       Reflective portfolios.

The end-point assessment consists of:

1.  A written project report of 6,000 words with a presentation and questioning

2.  A professional discussion

Fees and Funding

The tuition fee is £24,000 and this is payable from the Apprenticeship Levy or by Government Co-investment funding.

Start Dates

This apprenticeship starts in September each year. The next start date is 2 September 2024 .

Professional Recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with The Market Research Society for Member Level.