Master of Research

at Queen Margaret University

Research Methods (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 research skills and knowledge necessary to undertake an independent research project. (20 credits)

Communicating Research(20 credits): This module aims to provide the student with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead, manage and disseminate findings from research projects. (20 credits)

Proposing, designing and pre-registering Research - MRes Research Project Part 1 (60 credits):
 

• To enable students to learn how to produce an in-depth and comprehensive literature review and to draw a research question out of that.
• To use this as the basis for creating into a full, transparent research proposal suitable for use as a research pre-registration.    

Answering your research question - MRes Research Project Part 2 (60 credits):
 

• To enable students to develop and apply the skills of research and enquiry to produce original work which has the potential to make a contribution to a subject, field or profession, and
• To enable students to develop and demonstrate their skills in reporting and disseminating the outcomes of conducting research.    

Option module (20 credits): a 20 credit option from master's level modules at QMU

A first class or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject that includes a preliminary training in research methods, or equivalent. Extensive relevant experience in the subject you wish to research may be considered in lieu of a first class or upper second class honours degree.

International: You will be required to provide evidence of English language competence at no less than IELTS 6.5 and no individual component score below 6.0.

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:
 

1. Area of Research
2. Proposed Research Question
3. Research Aim/Research Question (including primary hypotheses, if appropriate)
4. Context (1-2 page literature review)
5. Proposed methodology, design, participants and analysis
6. Proposed supervisor and outline of contact to date (if any)

International    
£15,000

SCOT/UK/ROI    
£5,100    

The MRes may be the first stage in your academic career. The skills that you will gain are a sound basis to pursue doctoral studies for a PhD award or a career in undertaking research activities in other organisations, relevant to service users, industry or society.

This award may also give you an edge in the competitive job market for professional researchers. Companies, charities and governments are always looking for researchers who can produce work that solves problems and gets measurable results.