The Master’s by Research (MRes) is a flexible research training course designed to provide graduates with a foundation for a career in research, business, third-sector, government or academia. It is designed as a research-led programme that uniquely bridges the gap between taught Master’s qualifications and doctoral study (such as PhD or DBA).

You will benefit from high quality training in the methods and practice of research, focusing on methodological rigour, the development of independent research capabilities, and applied research experience, as well as gaining relevant transferable skills to take into your career in business and management.

What's covered in this course?
Through the course you will develop a keen understanding of advanced research methods. This will take you on the journey from an initial research idea and proposal, to embedding research philosophy and contemporary methodologies and analysis within your work. This is geared towards producing a piece of research that could be pursued further at doctoral level, for a publication, or to display the relevant skills to be competent within industry, or the public sector. There is also a focus on providing you with the skills to identify potential sources of funding, how to conduct enterprise activity, as well as project management and leadership.

This provides flexibility for you to maximise the specialisms of your work, your career opportunities, and how to operate as a reflective and evidence-based researcher following graduation.

Given that careers in research are growing, including in industry, this MRes will also prepare you to be able to disseminate complex research to a wide variety of audiences. You will gain an understanding of how this can be delivered through technology enhanced learning in order to bridge the gap between researchers and society when trying to ensure evidence-based research-informed practice occurs. This will prepare you to maximise the impact of research dissemination, while also fostering contemporary approaches to scholarship.

Employability
The course includes several targeted elements to enhance your employability:

Knowledge/Skills Audit: At the start of the programme, a knowledge/skills audit will help identify your strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring tailored support to build the skills that employers value.
Industry Engagement Opportunities: Through guest lectures, networking events, and hands-on projects, you can engage directly with industry professionals, building connections and insights relevant to the workplace.
Practical Training in Research Tools: The course includes training in essential tools like SPSS and NVivo, which are widely used in research and industry settings. Mastery of these tools provides a competitive edge in data analysis and project management roles.
Real-World Application of Research Skills: The course emphasises applying research to solve real-world business challenges, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills-all of which are highly valued by employers.
Reflective Practice: Embedded throughout the course, reflective practice encourages you to assess your progress, adapt your approaches, and demonstrate continuous improvement-skills that are essential for professional growth.