Build research skills in sensor design, sensing networks and data analysis, with applications in healthcare and sustainability. This standalone MRes combines science and engineering; progression to a PhD requires a separate application.
Research Master’s Degrees in the UK.
Research Master’s routes develop the methods and experience needed for independent investigation. An MRes, MPhil or another research degree can combine training with a substantial project. Degree names alone do not explain the structure: read the programme’s project, taught elements, duration and assessment.
Current Opportunities
Learn computational genomics and data-science methods, then use them in a research project. Although the qualification is an MRes, Cambridge classifies this course as taught. Progression to a PhD is not automatic.
Prepare for doctoral research in management through Cambridge Judge’s MRes/PhD route. Admission is highly selective. The School describes conditional scholarship support for admitted applicants who accept their offer within the stated period.
Explore photonic and electronic systems through taught modules and two individual research mini-projects. One project takes place at UCL. The programme balances teaching and research; check travel arrangements and costs before applying.
Develop an independent thesis on literature, culture or film within the department’s research areas. This route is designed for applicants who already know their intended research field and have experience of sustained independent writing.
Pursue a thesis in linguistics or language sciences, supported by research-methods training. The department’s work includes computational approaches, behavioural experiments and speech research. Applicants should discuss their topic with a potential supervisor before applying.
Study advanced economic theory and methods while beginning to develop a research direction. This MPhil includes substantial coursework and prepares students for doctoral applications; completing it does not guarantee admission to a PhD. Cambridge classifies this course as taught; included for doctoral research preparation.
Undertake a research thesis in Middle Eastern studies. The route combines a defined research topic with the language knowledge needed to work with relevant material, offering preparation for further independent scholarship.
Develop a research project with a psychiatry group whose work aligns with your interests. The project is shaped during application discussions, with training in conducting and communicating research in the department’s scientific environment.
Investigate cognition and brain function through experimental psychology, neuropsychology, computational modelling or neuroimaging. Projects can involve new experiments or analysis of existing datasets, with emphasis on research design and clear communication.
Build research skills through methods training, a proposal and a management research project. The programme combines structured study with preparation for independent investigation in business and management.
Develop biomedical research experience through a structured Master’s programme with specialist study and project work. Compare the available specialisms with your scientific background and intended research direction.
Develop an independent research project in English language or literature within a structured Master’s programme. The route can support doctoral preparation or a sustained project connected to professional interests.
Undertake a supervised biomedical research project. The MSc research route lasts one year full-time or two part-time.
Develop an independent materials research project over one full-time year or two part-time years.
What is the difference between an MRes and an MPhil?
An MRes commonly combines research-methods training with a substantial project. An MPhil is often centred on a supervised research project, although structures vary by university. Compare each programme’s published curriculum, supervision and assessment rather than relying on the title.
Are research Master’s degrees funded?
Some scholarships support research Master’s study, while other routes require applicants to arrange their own funding. Check tuition, living costs, scholarship eligibility and separate application deadlines. A course offer does not establish an award.
Does a research Master’s guarantee progression to a PhD?
No. A PhD may require a separate application, funding competition and supervisor agreement. Where a programme advertises a combined training route, read its progression conditions and whether the later stage is guaranteed or competitive.
Plan Your Application
Our research guide explains the decisions and links to official university and government guidance. Applications and funding decisions are handled by the offering institution.
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