Brandeis University

    SOC 82A: Applied Research Methods

    Instructor: Manning Zhang
    Prerequisites: May not be taken for credit by students who took SOC 182a in prior years.
    Course Description: This class offers a hands-on introduction to the power of quantitative data in understanding social issues. You will have the opportunity to explore how statistics shape sociological research, learning to formulate research questions, test hypotheses, and uncover patterns using real-world data. In the class, you will be introduced to Stata (available via Brandeis license), a robust software commonly used in quantitative data analysis. Moreover, you will gain practical skills in descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, causal analysis, and regression modeling. Engaging assignments include analyzing peer-reviewed studies, designing surveys, and working with datasets on education and inequality. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity, critical thinking, and a willingness to explore the stories data can tell.
    Session: Session I
    Day: T, W, Th
    Time: 8:30am - 11:00am
    Credit Hours: 4 Credits
    Course Format: Remote Learning Course for Summer 2025
    Brandeis Graduation Requirement Fulfilled: DL, QR, SS
    Enrollment Limit: 20 students
    Course Classification: Undergraduate Level Course
    Course Tuition: $3,700
    Course Fees: None
    Open to High School Students: No