Social Researcher (Subject to approval)

The BSc (Hons) Applied Social Research is a work-related learning programme that integrates academic learning at degree level with on-the-job practical training to provide a holistic programme of education and training to meet the social research needs of employers now and in the future. The programme equips learners with essential research skills, theoretical knowledge, and practical experience, preparing them for successful careers in social research, policy analysis, and related fields. This apprenticeship suits those who have a background in social research, employees working in government departments, local authorities, charities, consultancies and companies that lead, manage, commission or conduct research.

The BSc (Hons) Applied Social Research degree apprenticeship is an innovative programme designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice. Combining academic learning with on-the-job training, learners gain in-depth knowledge and the practical skills required to make significant contributions to social research and evidence-based policy development. This degree programme adheres to the Level 6 Social Researcher (ST1341) apprenticeship standard.

The programme emphasises the development of critical thinking and key research skills, utilising quantitative statistics throughout the programme, to enable learners to design, conduct, and analyse social research projects that address pressing social issues. Learners will become competent in a range of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and gain expertise in applying these methods to evaluate social policies and influence social policy-making. Throughout the programme, the university and employer collaborate to ensure the learner has meaningful engagement with stakeholders, such as policymakers, community leaders and funders, ensuring that their research is relevant, timely, and capable of contributing to positive social change.

The learner must be in employment, or be sponsored by an employer, with workplace duties aligned to the Level 6 Social Researcher apprenticeship standard. Learners whose job role aligns to the Level 6 Social Researcher apprenticeship will study for a full Bachelor’s degree (Stage 1-3).

Apprenticeships allow employees to learn at the highest level, developing skills that benefit both them and their organisation, and allow them to progress into higher-skilled occupations.

Built with an employer group, this programme ensures that apprentices are productive at work as soon as possible, getting involved in activity at work to embed the knowledge, skills, experience and behaviours learned.

This course also offers bootcamps throughout Year 1 and Year 2, which are each two weeks long, one week in person and one week online. These will focus on survey skills, statistical techniques, data analysis and critical thinking. Learners will be supported to gain in-depth understanding of when and how to apply statistical methods.

Off-the-job learning accounts for each individual’s prior knowledge, skills, and experience and is delivered flexibly, blending block sessions, online courses, assignments, and project work. Northeastern University London’s expertise is in modular, stackable learning. This flexible approach is part of Northeastern University London’s programme design and delivery DNA.

Apprentices progress along a career path from day one, gaining professional skills, status, and accreditation as they go.
In addition to tailored on and off the job learning, Northeastern University London apprenticeships also focus on personal development. The curriculum extends beyond academic, technical and vocational learning, providing opportunities for apprentices to broaden their development, discover talents and interests, and further enhance their basic skills, including maths and English. The apprenticeships have a culture of safeguarding learners and preparing individuals for life in modern Britain.