The Internet has transformed the way we work, collaborate, engage in commerce, participate in the political process and interact socially.  Researchers and analysts in both the academy and industry are increasingly using Internet data for empirical research into social, economic and political behaviour.  By undertaking the “Social Science of the Internet” specialisation in the Master of Social Research, students gain a thorough understanding of the relevant theory and methods for conducting social science Internet research. 

Students will:

(1) gain an understanding of the fundamental changes to society, politics and the economy that have resulted from the introduction of new information and communication technologies such as the Web;

(2) learn how core social science concepts and methodological approaches can facilitate an understanding of life in the Internet Age;

(3) learn about relevant online research methods that can be used for collecting and analysing data from the Internet.  

The new specialisation emphasises empirical social science research and thus complements the existing specialisations in the Master of Social Research.

More information about the Master of Social Research (Social Science on the Internet)