Course summary
The urgent challenges that confront societies and the planet today cannot be solved by any discipline in isolation; complex questions and global problems need multi- and inter-disciplinary expertise and solutions. This uniquely flexible programme allows you to build your own portfolio of study and pursue a research question across disciplinary borders. Students will develop their understanding of working in an interdisciplinary environment and broaden their skills and knowledge via taught modules available at Birmingham and online learning resources. They will operate at the cutting edge of research and carry out a project supervised by specialists in different academic fields. The programme is aimed at students whose educational or professional experiences have highlighted an important research question that would benefit from an interdisciplinary approach. It is particularly suited to those looking to have a positive impact on complex, real-world problems. You will become part of a thriving department, including undergraduates and staff, all tackling interdisciplinary challenges at different stages. You will be able to attend cultural events and become a member of our LANS Lab, a place to engage with other academics undertaking interdisciplinary research. Our students are innovative thinkers, future research leaders in academia, policy, industry, and beyond. Many will go on to pursue a research career, for example with a PhD, with a role in a non-governmental or charitable organisation, or with a position in research and development in industry.
Modules
An MRes combines taught elements with research training and an individual research project. They are ideal for someone looking to foreground their own experience and existing knowledge while learning new applicable skills. On this programme you join a research project or undertake your own piece of research alongside three taught modules. The Research Projects The research project will result in a 20,000 word (or equivalent if carrying out practice-based research) thesis which is supervised by a maximum of two academics in specialist fields and an interdisciplinary tutor. You can browse the research tab above. If you already have your topic or none of the projects are quite right then you can propose your own. Submit your pre-application form to begin this path. The Taught Modules: The World of Interdisciplinary Research - A core module providing training in key aspects of interdisciplinary research, including funding, multi-disciplinary group work and grant writing. An innovative module (‘The Open Skills Box’) that will allow you to combine educational resources available at Birmingham with online material from outside the University (e.g. MOOCs, etc) to widen your portfolio of skills and knowledge in preparation for your research project. An open module that you can choose from the MA level modules available at Birmingham
Assessment method
This programme places the responsibility for your education in your hands. We will support you to develop the portfolio of skills you need to approach your interdisciplinary research project. In addition, we will provide you with training to further your development as an interdisciplinary researcher, helping you to identify and pursue the opportunities that the programme can open up. You will be assessed using a variety of methods depending on the specific modules you choose as part of this programme. You can expect assessment methods to include elements such as extended writing, oral interviews and reflective portfolios.
Entry requirements
At least a 2.1 or equivalent in a subject area relevant for the proposed independent research project. An appropriate level of professional experience would also be acceptable (please contact the Programme Lead, Dr Julia Myatt, for advice).
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
For more detailed information on available funding and fees for postgraduate courses please visit: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/fees-and-funding
Provider information
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT