Program Overview

MRes Education

Overview

The aim of the MRes in Education is to provide the methodological, analytical, and practical expertise required to become a competent educational researcher. This is an Economic and Social Research Council-recognised programme, and one of the research training pathways that make up the South West Doctoral Training Partnership.

This programme will appeal to those who are interested in developing a career in educational research, as well as professionals working in education institutions or organisations that require research knowledge and skills.

Key Information

• Programme duration: One year full-time; two or three years part-time.
• Start date: September 2025
• Application deadline: Overseas applicants: 25 July 2025; Home applicants: 8 August 2025
• Delivery method: On-Campus
• Location: Clifton
• Awards available: MRes

Programme Structure

You will work towards a master's qualification, through taught units and a dissertation, to cover the required preparatory training for a PhD application. The programme also provides research training for PhD candidates, who are required to take core units.

Entry Requirements

• You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in education or research.
• Applicants who do not have a research degree must have evidence of one unit in research methods.
• We will also consider your application if your subject is not listed above but you can evidence significant (minimum of one year full-time or part-time equivalent) paid work experience in a research role.
• If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.

Fees and Funding

• Home: full-time: £12,300 per year
• Home: part-time (three years): £4,100 per year
• Home: part-time (two years): £6,150 per year
• Overseas: full-time: £28,200 per year

Career Prospects

Our goal is to equip you with the tools to demonstrate impact, excellence, and distinctiveness in your chosen field.

• Teaching and educational leadership: Many work as teachers (if they hold Qualified Teacher Status or equivalent – additional qualifications) or progress into leadership roles such as curriculum coordinators, headteachers, or educational consultants.
• Education policy and administration: Opportunities exist within government bodies, local authorities, and education charities, influencing policy and practice.
• Higher education and academic research: Postgraduate students could choose to continue into PhD programmes or take on academic research roles within universities or independent education think tanks.
• EdTech and corporate training: Graduates may move into educational technology companies, instructional design, or corporate training and development.