Master of Philosophy

Program Overview

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Master of Philosophy MPhil

Overview

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a research degree that allows students to explore their research interests in a specific area. The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct original research and make a significant contribution to their field.

Why us?

• Compared to a PhD, an MPhil requires fewer years of study – as few as two years compared to at least three years for a PhD
• You can often convert your MPhil into a PhD and continue your research
• An MPhil thesis is typically 20,000-40,000 words while a PhD thesis is up to 80,000 words, depending on the subject area
• You have an option to study this programme at our Sunderland campus or via distance learning

Entry Requirements

• The normal entry requirement for a research degree is a UK honours degree (first or upper second class) or a UK master's degree or a qualification which is regarded as equivalent
• We will consider candidates with other qualifications, looking at evidence of academic ability such as published work
• If English is not your first language, you will need a British Council International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component: reading, writing, listening and speaking (or equivalent)

Research Proposal

• You will be asked to write a 2-3 page research proposal that specifies the:
  • Aims of your research
  • Rationale for the research question(s)
  • Proposed methodology and techniques for analysis
  • Provisional time plan for the research

Fees and Finance

• We charge annual fees while you are studying and researching for your degree
• 2025/26 fees are:
  • If you are from the UK/Ireland/EU settled/pre-settled:
    • On-campus full-time: £4,700 per year
    • On-campus part-time: £3,681 per year
    • Distance learning full-time: £3,681 per year
    • Distance learning part-time: £3,681 per year
  • International candidates:
    • On-campus full-time: £14,500 per year
    • On-campus part-time: £8,500 per year
    • Distance learning full-time: £8,000 per year
    • Distance learning part-time: £8,000 per year

International Scholarship

• All full-time, on-campus international research candidates at postgraduate level are awarded a £900 scholarship per year of study
• You do not have to apply for this scholarship; it is automatically applied to reduce the annual fees specified above

Meet the Team

• Gary Husband, Professor of Professional Education

Related Courses

• PhD Doctor of Philosophy
• Higher Doctorate

Duration and Mode of Study

• 1.5/4 years
• Full/Part time
• On-campus or distance learning

Course Code

• CID1181

Next Start Date

• 1 Oct 25

Tuition Fees

• £4,700 (Current fee)
• £14,500 (International fee)

Program Outline

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Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

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Degree Overview:

The MPhil program at the University of Sunderland is designed to train students in rigorous research methodologies applicable to various career paths. The program emphasizes independent research and critical thinking, allowing students to delve deep into their chosen field of study.

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Objectives:

• Develop advanced research skills and methodologies.
• Contribute to the existing body of knowledge through original research.
• Cultivate critical thinking and analytical abilities.
• Enhance communication and presentation skills.
• Prepare graduates for diverse careers requiring research expertise.

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Program Description:

The MPhil is a research-intensive program typically lasting two years. It requires the completion of a significant research project culminating in a thesis of 20,000-40,000 words. Students receive individual supervision and guidance from experienced faculty members throughout their research journey.

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Outline:

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Content:

The MPhil program covers a broad range of subjects across various disciplines, including:

• Education
• Health and Wellbeing
• Business and Law
• Computing and Engineering
• Arts and Humanities
• Social Sciences

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Structure:

The program comprises two stages:

• Stage 1: Focuses on developing research skills and knowledge in the chosen field.
Students participate in seminars, workshops, and individual study.
• Stage 2: Dedicated to conducting independent research and writing the thesis.
Students receive ongoing support and supervision from their assigned faculty member.

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Course Schedule:

The specific course schedule varies depending on the chosen research area and individual student needs. However, students can expect to engage in a combination of:

• Research methods and design modules
• Subject-specific seminars and workshops
• Independent research and thesis writing

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Modules:

Specific modules offered within the MPhil program are not mentioned in the provided context.

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Assessment:

Assessment methods in the MPhil program vary depending on the specific research area and chosen modules. However, typical assessment methods include:

• Coursework: Essays, presentations, research proposals, and other written assignments.
• Examinations: Written or oral examinations testing knowledge and understanding of the research field.
• Thesis: The primary assessment component, where students present their original research findings and analysis in a comprehensive thesis document.

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Teaching:

The MPhil program utilizes diverse teaching methods to foster a stimulating learning environment. These methods include:

• Lectures: Delivered by faculty experts to introduce key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Interactive discussions allowing students to engage with research topics and exchange ideas.
• Workshops: Practical sessions providing hands-on training in research skills and methodologies.
• Individual supervision: Regular meetings with the faculty supervisor to discuss research progress and receive guidance.

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Faculty:

The MPhil program benefits from a team of experienced and research-active faculty members. These experts provide students with valuable mentorship and expertise within their respective fields.

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Careers:

The MPhil program prepares graduates for diverse research-oriented careers across various sectors, including:

• Academia
• Research and development
• Government and policy
• Consultancy
• Non-profit organizations
• Private industry

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Other:

• Students have the option to study the MPhil program on campus or via distance learning.
• The program offers a supportive learning environment with access to extensive library resources and research facilities.
• The MPhil program can provide a strong foundation for further academic pursuits, such as a PhD.
• The program also offers international scholarships for full-time, on-campus students.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• If you are from the UK/Ireland/EU settled/pre-settled:
On-campus full-time: £4,500 per year On-campus part-time: £3,681 per year Distance learning full-time: £3,681 per year Distance learning part-time: £3,681 per year
• International candidates:
On-campus full-time: £13,500 per year On-campus part-time: £8,500 per year Distance learning full-time: £8,000 per year Distance learning part-time: £8,000 per year
• Tier 1 £4,500 Home/£13,500 International per year.
This applies to the vast majority of research students who do not require specialist equipment.
• Tier 2 £5,000 Home/£14,000 International per year.
This applies to research students where there will be some additional expenses and the use of equipment.
• Tier 3 £6,000 Home/£16,000 International per year.
This applies to laboratory and clinical research students i.e. in sciences where there are consumables.
• International scholarship
All full-time, on-campus international research candidates at postgraduate level are awarded a £1,400 scholarship per year of study. You do not have to apply for this scholarship; it is automatically applied to reduce the annual fees specified above.