A Masters by Research degree allows you to carry out an independent supervised research project on an approved topic of your choice. At the end of your studies you will submit a thesis of up to 40,000 words. As with all research degrees examination is a two-part process: examination of the thesis followed by a viva examination.

Postgraduate researchers are assigned a supervisory team who have the expertise and experience to support them in their studies. Supervisors will help you to shape your research project, give feedback on work in progress and guide you to completion.

Who does it suit

For those coming to the end of their undergraduate studies, a Masters by Research can be an attractive alternative to a taught masters. If you have enjoyed researching your dissertation, you may want to take it further or perhaps take a year to develop additional skills before joining the job market.

For professionals, a Masters by Research allows you to develop a research outlook to explore and address projects, and bring about change in your professional practice or within your organisation.

Undertake a piece of research on a topic that interests you; Develop undergraduate dissertations; Use it to develop the skills and confidence to progress to a PhD; Develop research skills and outlook which you can take throughout your career; Learn how to use research to find solutions, fill gaps in knowledge and explore new products or ways of working.

Why do a Masters by Research

Gain specialist knowledge and research skills; To enhance and progress a professional career, especially if the research is an integral part of your daily work; Masters by Research is excellent preparation for PhD study; It's flexible - there are no fixed lectures to attend; Research can be worked around personal or work commitments; Distance route allows you to work in a location that best suits your requirements; Study on either a part-time or full-time basis.