Education Master of Research (MRes)

This course is designed for professionals who work with children, young people, families and adults in a range of educational settings, such as children's centres, nurseries, schools, colleges and universities, as well as consultancies, advisory services, museums, prisons and hospitals. This programme is relevant to education professionals who are keen to develop advanced knowledge and understanding of research methods in education. Taught sessions will focus upon deepening your existing understanding of professional practice and critically examine the challenges within your sector allowing you to explore your role, setting, and interprofessional working as a research-informed practitioner. It helps you acquire the knowledge, confidence and attributes needed to: complete a research project focusing upon your specific area of interest; become a research-engaged self-improving education professional; undertake, facilitate and lead enquiry in an educational setting; progress towards studying for a doctoral degree.

The MRes has a strong focus on the interface of research, practice and professional learning in education-related fields of enquiry and offers an excellent foundation for the research-engaged professional. Through a carefully structured taught programme you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between practice-oriented knowledge, professional identity, institutional priorities and evidence based practice. You will develop your knowledge and skills of research methods in education and how to conduct research ethically. The ‘capstone' of the programme involves the undertaking of a research dissertation allowing you to put into practice your developed skills, knowledge and understanding of research. Throughout the programme, you will be encouraged to participate as part of a professional learning community; sharing experiences and ideas in order to contribute to research cultures within and beyond your professional setting.

Students need to have an honours degree and/or further qualifications relating to working with children, young people and families in a professional or interprofessional setting. Students will be able to demonstrate a commitment to professional learning in the fields of children's care or education. Students without these requirements may be invited to submit a portfolio for RPL assessment in order to demonstrate possible eligibility for entry.