8 Social Science Research Careers in Canada

There are many different types of qualitative and social science research careers in Canada, but to better understand the types of jobs in this field, you have to understand what qualitative research is. 

Qualitative research involves analyzing and gathering non-numerical data to better understand social reality, including concepts, attitudes, opinions, beliefs, and more. Researchers collect this qualitative data through focus groups, interviews, observations, and surveys. Qualitative researchers seek to interpret the meaning behind these data to better understand social life.

Qualitative research is the opposite of quantitative research, which collects and interprets numerical data. Qualitative research is used in social science, humanities, history, sociology, anthropology, and more.

So, what are some qualitative research careers, and what different levels of social science degrees are there?

Social Science Research Careers in Canada

Qualitative research jobs involve analyzing and understanding how people and society think, act, and make decisions. People in qualitative research careers help companies, governments, people, and clients solve problems related to social sciences. This research plays a big role in business decision-making, policy-making, and more. 

A Bachelor’s Degree in sociology, anthropology, psychology, or a related field is often required for entry-level positions in qualitative research. There are different levels of social science degrees, including a Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, and Ph.D. The type of degree will determine the type of qualitative research career you will attain in the future. Read on to learn more about what you can do with these degrees.

What Do I Do With a Degree in Social Sciences?

A degree in social sciences can lead to qualitative research careers. These careers involve performing research to help businesses or clients overcome a challenge. This research includes focus groups, observation, and self-reporting through surveys, email, online forums, etc. Researchers present their findings, meet with clients to discuss the findings, and make recommendations that aim to improve the business or overcome an obstacle or challenge.

Qualitative researchers work in government, healthcare, financial services, media, technology, consumer goods, B2B, and more. Learn more about social qualitative research careers in Canada below.

1. Market Research

Market research is the action of gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data about target customers or a target market. The data typically relates to a product or service and analyzes the past, present, and future customers of the specific product or service. 

Market researchers help companies better understand their target customers’ preferences and needs and help businesses make informed decisions about developing, marketing, and distributing their products. This type of research can include interviews, observations, focus groups, surveys, and more. It also helps businesses connect with their audience, identify areas for growth, make data-driven decisions, and limit business risks.

2. Project Manager

A project manager is responsible for the planning and execution of an entire research project. They are responsible for every aspect of the project, including managing the team, resources, scope, and more. They must handle the day-to-day management of the project and are responsible for ensuring that the project is delivered both on time and on budget.

When it comes to research, they ensure that all standards for recruitment are in line with the company’s policies and processes.

 3. Policy Research

A policy researcher conducts research and analysis to help develop and implement public policies. They provide policymakers with recommendations on how to alleviate a problem and how certain policies and practices may influence the population. They work in many different settings, including government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations. 

Policy research expands over a variety of issues and industries, including education, government, healthcare, criminal justice, and much more. They use research gathered from statistical analysis, reviews, interviews, and case studies to gather and analyze data. Once they gather the data, they provide policymakers with their findings and help them make informed decisions that will benefit society. They also use the data to better understand how policies affect certain members of society.

4. Sociologist  

Sociologists use qualitative research methods to study human behavior and social interactions, including how certain social, economic, political, and religious groups behave. Sociologists study matters related to law, crime, wealth, poverty, and prejudice. They focus on studying societal issues that can help create positive change.

Sociologists perform research to test theories related to social issues, collect and analyze data, and study the growth of different groups and their interactions with one another in society. They help lawmakers, social workers, and educators solve social problems. They also help formulate public policy.

5. Anthropologist

Anthropologists use qualitative research methods to study human cultures, societies, and languages. They study human behavior and culture through a variety of methods, including archaeology and linguistic analysis. Their findings help them better understand the cultural diversity of humans and how we interact with one another. They also study how different cultures change and how society is organized.

Anthropologists study the beliefs and practices of different cultures, biological characteristics of human populations, past human cultures, and the role language plays in society and culture. They typically work in government, universities, forensic science, museums, and more.

6. Economist 

An economist studies theories based on economics. They research the relationship between resources and a society’s production of them. This involves studying the production of goods, services, and resources.

Using this data, economists can draw conclusions about why consumers make certain decisions. They also interpret and forecast market trends and advise businesses and governments while recommending solutions to economic problems.

7. Political Scientist

A political scientist studies politics and government. They use various research methods to study political systems, policies, and behavior. Their research involves studying how societies are governed and how political power is exercised. They also study how policies are made and implemented and how society and groups interact with politics. Political scientists also consult on political issues and aid in the development and evaluation of public policy.

8. Historical Societies

Historical societies preserve and promote a community or region’s history. This often involves displaying and preserving historical items, artifacts, and documents in museums or other facilities. These societies also conduct research and publish articles and books on the history of a certain geographic area. They work to interpret and preserve a region’s history and educate the public about a region’s heritage, history, and identity.

In Summary

The above qualitative research careers are just a few examples of the many types of jobs that involve qualitative research. The requirements for each job vary depending on the level of education required, the field, and the employer. 

If you’re a qualitative researcher or are searching for qualitative analysis software to help you code qualitative data with ease, explore what LiGRE has to offer. Sign up for your free trial today! 

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