Course summary
In this flexible course that can be taken online, you’ll develop professional-standard research skills in the subject of your choice. An MRes can give you a competitive edge in the researcher job market, and is also a valuable stepping stone towards a PhD. You can study for a post-nominal award where the specific subject of your degree is named in its title. If you are thinking about a career in academic or professional research, our MRes is an internationally recognised research qualification that you can complete flexibly and without the commitment of a full PhD. This course is also ideal if you want to expand your research knowledge as part of your continuing professional development (CPD).
Modules
Introduction to Research Skills (20 credits): The aim of the module is to provide the student with an understanding of research principles, a range of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and appropriate analysis for these. This will enable the student to develop the foundation research skills and knowledge necessary to undertake an independent research project. Literature Enquiry and Synthesis (20 credits): The aim of this module is to build the skills for; systematically searching for research resources; critically reviewing research literature and synthesising the findings of such a review. The module involves the critical analysis of; research designs; literature review and evaluation tools; and the use and application of technology and software to review research literature. Foundations of Research Practice (20 credits)In this module, you will be supported to reflect on your research development needs, develop a critical understanding of the modern research environment, establish your philosophy as a researcher and consider ethical issues surrounding your research practice. Project Proposal: (20 credits): Based on these foundations, via working with your research supervisor you will then be supported to design and propose a research project in your area of interest. Advanced Research Methods (20 credits) In this module, you will receive mentoring and coaching to support the development of your expertise relating to the research methods within your research project. You will be supported to ask critical questions and seek out information and guidance from multiple sources. The aim is to gain the advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills to undertake and justify your proposed research paradigm, methods and analysis procedures. Delivering and disseminating your research project (80 credits): In this module, you will undertake your research project as an opportunity to carry out an extensive piece of research. You will be guided to develop a written thesis (or other relevant output/piece) and engage in research dissemination activities to specific audiences relevant to the student’s future career; a culmination and celebration of the research endeavours which have been undertaken during your masters.
Assessment method
Taught modules are delivered via a blend of interactive online learning sessions and activities. For research project modules, there will be some taught sessions and you will receive support from the module co-ordinator and your research supervisor to facilitate your self-development and independent learning as a researcher. The course has a variety of assessments including; practical research tasks, written assignments, verbal presentations, self-development portfolios, culminating in a written thesis and dissemination activities featuring the results of your research project.
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
Entry requirements
A 1st Class or 2.1 Honours degree in a relevant subject that includes a preliminary training in research methods, or equivalent. Due to the heavy focus on the Research Project, students will need to produce an outline protocol of their intended research project, including a named supervisor who has the expertise to supervise the project, as part of the application process. Applicants must produce a short research proposal and be prepared to discuss this with the Programme Team and potential supervisors. Applicants are strongly encouraged to use the staff profile pages on the QMU website to identify potential supervisors and make contact with them in advance of application. Projects will not be accepted without a suitable supervisor. Applicants are asked to submit a research proposal that includes the following: Area of Research Proposed Research Question Research Aim/Research Question (including primary hypotheses, if appropriate) Context (1-2 page literature review) Proposed methodology, design, participants and analysis Proposed supervisor and outline of contact to date (if any)
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £7310 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £7310 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £7310 | Whole course |
| Wales | £7310 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £7310 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £7310 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Individual modules by distance learning cost £815
The additional project cost £2,435 each (£4,870 total)
Provider information
Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
Queen Margaret University Drive
Musselburgh
Edinburgh
EH21 6UU