Find out more about studying MRes Master of Research in Health and Social Care at University of Hertfordshire? We've gathered all the key details, entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
MRes - Master of Research
College Lane - Campus
Part Time
Sep 2027
2 Year
About the course The MRes Health and Social Care offers an excellent foundation in health and social care research, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to critically evaluate and apply research evidence in practice and policy contexts. Through formal training in research methods and practical, hands-on experience in managing and delivering research projects, you will gain insight into contemporary research needs and priorities in health and social care. The course has been developed in response to NIHR funding and national research priorities, specifically addressing the shortage of non-medical professional researchers. It places a strong emphasis on patient and public involvement (PPI) and equity in research, aligning closely with current sector-specific demands and ensuring that you are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of the health and social care research landscape. How to apply To apply for a Master of Research (MRes) in Health and Social Care at the University of Hertfordshire, please submit a personal statement of up to 500 words. In your statement, explain why you are interested in pursuing an MRes in Health and Social Care and provide examples of any prior research experience that demonstrate your suitability for a research career. You may include relevant achievements such as: Publications in peer-reviewed journals Presentations or posters at conferences Participation in audits and dissemination of findings Involvement in journal clubs Any other professional activities or accomplishments relevant to health and social care research If you would like an informal discussion about the programme, please feel free to reach out to the Programme Lead, Dr. Anthony Herbland.
This module covers key aspects of evidence synthesis in health and social care, including developing comprehensive search strategies, critical appraisal of research, and evidence synthesis methodologies. Students will explore the potential of AI tools to support these activities. Practical workshops and peer-review sessions will enable students to apply these skills and produce evidence-based conclusions to inform practice and policy.
This module covers the principles, philosophies and methodologies of research design and management in health and social care. Students will learn how to develop robust proposals, manage projects effectively, and ensure the quality and integrity of research and evaluation processes. The module will explore the differences between research, quality improvement and service evaluation and the challenges in each. Ethical considerations and regulatory requirements will also be addressed.
This module covers the foundations of qualitative research methods in health and social care. It includes critical appraisal of qualitative research, design and implementation of qualitative studies, data collection techniques (e.g., interviews, focus groups), data analysis methods, strategies to promote rigour, ethical considerations, and the presentation and communication of research findings.
This module invites you to explore what researchers mean by 'inclusive research' in health and social care, and how you can embed inclusive research principles and practices in your own research. The module encompasses the impact of personal and public involvement (PPI) on research; strategies for promoting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI); designing inclusive research studies; ethical considerations; and engaging with diverse populations. There will also be opportunities to engage with experts by experience to develop understanding of the realities of inclusive research.
This module explores quantitative research methodologies within health and social care. Students will learn to design research, formulate hypotheses, and select appropriate study designs and sampling strategies. Key topics include primary data collection methods (randomised control trials, cohort studies, case control studies, surveys). The module covers descriptive and inferential statistics, regression analysis, and factor analysis, with practical training in statistical software (e.g., SPSS) for data analysis and presentation. Students will develop skills to critically appraise, undertake high-level statistical data analysis and effectively communicate and report research findings.
The content will be dependent upon the needs of the individual student and, as far as possible, they will be placed within a team that corresponds to their professional and research priorities and interests.
Students will have the opportunity to engage in a piece of independent research/quality improvement/service evaluation in health and/or social care. This module supports the development of expertise in study design, data collection and analysis, and the ethical conduct of research/quality improvement/service evaluation. The dissertation will culminate in a comprehensive written dissertation that demonstrates the student's ability to undertake substantial independent investigative work and present findings coherently.
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