Social researcher

Social researchers collect and analyse information about developments, trends and attitudes in society. Their findings are used to help make social policy, comment on aspects of modern life, or market goods and services. They work in local and central government, independent research organisations, market research or higher education.

Work activities

Social researchers use different research methods to find out about developments, trends and attitudes in society. There are two main types of research. Quantitative research involves large samples (usually more than 100 people) and measurable data. Data is usually obtained by using questionnaires. Qualitative research uses smaller numbers of people and concentrates more deeply on their opinions and experiences. This can be done using focus groups. Focus groups are made up of a small number of selected people, who are encouraged to discuss a particular topic. Researchers also interview people on a one-to-one basis.

Researchers could have responsibility for one area of a research project or they could be involved with the whole thing. This depends on the type and size of the organisation they work for. Researchers use computers to analyse data and produce statistics, graphs and models.

At the end of a project, researchers write a report that sets out the research aims, results, conclusions and recommendations. The findings of a completed project are often given in a presentation to people who have an interest in the issues raised. Social researchers help to form and monitor social policy in central government departments. Knowledge of public attitudes on diet, drugs and alcohol (for example) helps the government to set health care targets and produce public information literature.

In local government, research tends to be very specific to policy. Researchers help local authorities by producing information on housing, education, social services and planning. For example, they find out people’s opinions about the state of housing, or the impact of a new road. The government and market research organisations are interested in consumer attitudes and behaviour. Researchers ask people about their decisions to save or borrow money, or about buying houses and cars. This helps the government to assess confidence in the economy, and businesses to identify new products and markets.

Personal qualities and skills

As a social researcher, you need:

An interest in social developments, trends and attitudes.
An investigative and analytical mind.
Familiarity with a number of research methods.
A thorough approach to your work.
The ability to plan and carry out surveys.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.
IT skills to produce statistics, graphs and models.
Good organisational skills.
The ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.
To be able to explain your findings clearly, both verbally and in written reports.

Pay and opportunities

Salaries for social researchers vary depending on the sector they work in. When qualified, social researchers earn in the range of £23,500 to £36,000. However, they may earn significantly less while undertaking their training, which can be lengthy.

Social researchers work a 37-40-hour week, Monday to Friday. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required, depending on the nature of the project and its deadlines. This may include conducting interviews and focus groups.

The largest single employer of social researchers is the Office for National Statistics (ONS), with bases in London, Newport (Wales) and Titchfield (Hampshire). A number of social researchers work in other government departments and agencies in a variety of subject and policy areas. Other employers include the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), local government, higher education, market research agencies, charities and voluntary organisations and independent research organisations like the Policy Studies Institute. Most independent research bodies are based in London. In higher education, there are a number of university research centres, such as the Social Policy Research Unit at York. Other opportunities occur for social researchers with employers in regional centres in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised in national newspapers, on job boards, on employers’ websites, and on the Government’s Find a Job and Find an Apprenticeship services.

Entry routes and training

Entry requirements vary according to the nature of the organisation. You may be able to go into a social research career straight after a degree. Relevant subjects include sociology, politics, social policy, economics, geography and mathematics.

However, further knowledge of social research methods is usually needed to get into this career. You could gain this knowledge from a postgraduate qualification, such as a master’s degree in a social science subject or social research methods, or a research degree such as an MPhil or PhD. Some universities provide sandwich courses with a year’s placement in industry. It’s also useful to seek vacation work in social research while at university. Some market research organisations recruit graduate trainees with the possibility of specialising in social research.

An apprenticeship in the role of social researcher has recently been launched. On this level 6 (degree) apprenticeship, you will work for a particular organisation and develop the skills and knowledge to carry out social research which is specific to your role.

Most employers will offer researchers relevant training once in a post.

With experience, it’s possible to progress to a senior research post or a role with supervisory or management responsibilities.

Qualifications

For a degree in sociology, the usual minimum requirement is:

Two to three A-levels.
GCSEs at grades 9-4 in two to three other subjects. Maths and English are usually preferred.

Other qualifications, such as an Edexcel (BTEC) Level 3 National qualification or the International Baccalaureate Diploma could also be considered. Entry requirements for degree courses vary; check prospectuses carefully.

For a degree apprenticeship, you will need two relevant A-levels, perhaps including sociology, as well as GCSEs in maths and English. Employers may specify other subject choices.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Entrants with relevant research skills and abilities have an advantage. You could gain valuable experience from previous work in a managerial or administrative role, or by working for a market research organisation.

If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course (e.g., Access to Social Sciences) could be the way in. No formal qualifications are usually required, but you should check individual course details. Part-time postgraduate diplomas and degrees in social research and related fields are available at numerous higher education institutions.

Related careers

Broadcasting researcher
Economist
Fast stream civil servant
Information scientist
Journalist
Market research analyst
Market research executive
Market research interviewer
Political researcher
Private investigator
Statistician