What is a research degree?

Cooperating Universities with Europedia, offer research opportunities in a wide variety of areas. Undertaking a research degree gives you the opportunity to determine your own field of study and opportunities exist in all areas to undertake supervised research for a Masters degree via the following Schemes: Master by Research (MRes), Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

The aim of a research degree is to provide in-depth training in a particular subject area through original investigation and experiment which culminates in the presentation of a thesis presenting your research and its conclusions. When undertaking such a degree students will be trained in research methods and will undertake a high level study of a subject or problem. Although tutors at the university will provide you with support and guidance, the study may be very challenging in terms of both time and intellect and a significant commitment is required on the part of the student.

Students undertaking research normally register initially for an MRes (Master by Research) or an MPhil (Master of Philosophy) with registration transferred to a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) after a year if appropriate progress is being made. Opportunities also exist to transfer from a Master degree to MPhil or PhD providing that progress on the work demonstrates that development to this level can be achieved.

Research degrees may be gained by full or part-time study or a combination of the two. Many part time students choose to follow a programme of study in collaboration with their employer, with supervision being provided both by the university and the place of work. All students undertaking research degrees are provided with specialist supervision from experts in the subject area. Your supervisor will meet with you on a regular basis to consider the direction of your thesis, progress with the research, drafts of material that may constitute papers and draft chapters.

You determine your area of study and programme of work with your supervisor and you will be provided with appropriate research training to enable you to complete your programme of research. Your programme of research will culminate in the preparation of a thesis which is submitted for assessment by internal and external examiners, together with an oral examination. Undertaking a research degree will present you with a considerable challenge both intellectually and organisationally. You will be required to work independently and you will acquire valuable skills, whatever your subsequent career direction.