The Master of Research Studies is a qualifying programme as 'front-on' for research degrees for graduates from any discipline who do not have the appropriate research experience to undertake higher research degrees. It is designed for applicants who need additional skills in research in order to progress onto their PhD, Masters by Research, and MPHIL programmes. The applicants will learn about diverse research philosophies, theories, methodologies, research designs and ethics as they plan and conduct a research study that can lead onto higher degrees. The course will also provide the required knowledge, skills and confidence to interpret, evaluate and carry out research in any social setting.
Entry Criteria
General Entry Criteria:
A related Bachelor’s DegreeOR
A related Graduate Diploma at Level 8
Alternative Entry Criteria
25 years old, completion of a related Level 5 qualification, and 7 years of relevant experience (of which 3.5 years of experience is obtained after completion of a Level 5 qualification), and completion of an MQA approved Pre-Master’s Programme. OR
25 years old, completion of a related Level 6 qualification, and 6 years of relevant experience (of which 3 years of experience is obtained after completion of a Level 6 qualification), and completion of an MQA approved Pre-Master’s Programme.
Upon successful completion of this programme, students will be able to:
Read educational and social research with an understanding of a range of research methodologies;
Define an issue in their discipline as an investigable research project;
Design a research project demonstrating understanding of the range of research methodologies available, and their relevance to the project;
Undertake a significant research project in their respective discipline;
Write up the results of the research project to demonstrate the capacity to adhere to the conventions of research;
Critically review impact of social research on professional policies and practices;
Confidently engage in academic and professional presentation and communication with others about the new ideas from the research findings;
Evaluate the relevance of research in advancing the discipline/field;
Take independent and self-critical responsibility for own work, guiding the learning of others and managing their own requirements for continuing professional development;
Demonstrate understanding of a range of ontological and epistemological issues in relation to social research; and
Demonstrate understanding of ethical standards of conduct in the collection and evaluation of data in social research.
Core Modules
Semester 1
Introduction to Research Methods
Reading and Writing for Research
Introduction to Research Theory
Eligible for Award Postgraduate Certificate in Research Studies
Semester 2
Advance Research Methods
Route 1
Thesis (Minor)
Exit Award Postgraduate Diploma in Research Studies
Semester 3, 4 (year-long module)
Route 2
Thesis (Major)
Master of Research Studies
Additional Information
Students exiting with Masters award will start Thesis (Major) module in semester 2 and continue throughout semesters 3 and 4
Route 1: Thesis (Minor) is offered only for those exiting the programme with Postgraduate Diploma in Research Studies
Students who complete the full Masters programme should take route 2
First year = MVR 4,499 per month x 12 months
Second year = MVR 3,750 per month x 8 months