MSc in Education (Research Design and Methodology)

at University of Oxford

The course covers a range of quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and data analysis, and introduces you to the challenges of carrying out social research in the field of education. 

Students will normally complete six taught modules:
 

• Foundations of Educational Research 1: Concepts and Design
• Foundations of Educational Research 2: Strategies and Methods
• Philosophy of Educational Research
• Introduction to Quantitative Research
• One of the following modules:
  • Intermediate Quantitative Research
  • Perspectives and Debates in Qualitative Research
• One elective module, which is normally either Intermediate Quantitative Research or Perspectives and Debates in Qualitative Research, but may include an alternative module (specific options depending upon annual course offerings across the MSc Education course in Hilary Term, and these options will be shared with students on the course at the beginning of Michaelmas Term).

The teaching methods include lectures, small group work, student presentations, seminars, workshops, one-to-one dissertation supervision, and individual research projects. You will participate in classes on research design, and on the quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis techniques used to yield research findings. Supervision sessions will support you in identifying research questions towards dissertation research, selecting areas for literature review, carrying out field work, and reviewing drafts of the dissertation. Supported ICT sessions on literature access skills (including electronic searches) will be provided by the department's library staff.

All students on this course may take part in an optional ‘internship’ in which they work with an academic/research team on an ongoing research project for a short period. During this time, they gain experience by working on the variety of activities that constitute an everyday part of doing educational research.

The MSc programme is offered on both a full time (one year) and part time (two year) basis (note: prospective students must apply specifically to either the full time course or the part time course). The degree and expectations for both modes of study are equally rigorous: part time students attend classes with full time students, but these are spread over two years to balance with work and personal circumstances. 

Proven and potential academic excellence

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:
 

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a relevant subject, preferably in the social sciences.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.6 out of 4.0.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience
 

• Publications are not expected.

English language proficiency

Minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level requirement

IELTS Academic

 7.5  

TOEFL iBT, including the 'Home Edition'

110

Home    
£15,270

Overseas  
£30,910

The most recent Oxford University Destination of Leavers from Higher Education Survey made contact with 182 MSc Education students who graduated from the Department of Education between 2012 and 2017. Over 71% of alumni were in work and 20% in further study with only 6% looking for work.

Many past students who successfully completed the MSc Education (Research Design & Methodology) course have gone on to doctoral study, and several have proceeded to take up academic posts in leading UK universities (including associate professorships in the Department of Education).