Master of Research

at Glasgow School of Art

The scope of this Programme is the design, undertaking, and communication of a discrete research project. This is a 180-credit Programme. There are research-related Formative Outputs at each Phase, which collectively go towards a Summative Portfolio, which makes up the assessment regime for the programme. Should the candidate wish to apply to convert to Year 2 of PhD study at the end of the Programme, this portfolio can also constitute evidence for candidates to align with the existing Progression process (at the end of Year 1 of the PhD). The underpinning dimensions of the Programme include: a stress on independent research activity from the outset, location of that activity both within GSA and out with GSA (in communities, businesses, government, public sector etc.), and outputs from the activity that are reflective of the needs of research as it is currently emerging (recognising the importance of research-in-practice, knowledge exchange, and knowledge mobilisation as core researcher activities). Although primarily designed as a self-contained programme responding to demand (see below) successful students can apply to convert their research to PhD at Year 2(FT) level in a ‘1+2’ model. On reaching the end of the Master of Research, students, having completed Research Training (as identified in Phase 1), and together with a Portfolio of work, either submit to be awarded a Master of Research by Viva, or apply for conversion to Year 2 of a PhD. There is no double counting of research, e.g. students are awarded one or progress with the other.

2:1 degree – with a dissertation or equivalent component (within three years of graduation, thereafter an equivalent will be considered based on candidate’s experience).

All students will have to provide evidence of English language proficiency when applying.

International Students Students who require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK must meet one of the following requirements in order to gain entry:

• IELTS for UKVI Academic with an overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.5 in all components;
• complete an acceptable Pre-sessional English Language Programme taught from within the UK with an outcome that equates to the IELTS scores as stated above. Students who have a degree from an English speaking country, or are a national of an English speaking country as listed in the UKVI Guidance, may use this as proof of English language ability.

Research Degrees - £18,360 per year. Fee will remain the same in all years of study