University of Derby

Overview

The Master of Research (MRes) in Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Derby is designed to cultivate advanced research and analytical skills. This structured programme culminates in a significant independent research project, allowing students to select a pathway that aligns with their interests and career aspirations. Pathways include Social Research, Criminal Psychology, Humanities, and Journalism.

What you'll study

The MRes programme is centered around rigorous research training and a supervised independent research project. Your chosen pathway will guide the subject-specific modules you undertake alongside essential research methods.

Core research training

• Research Methods
• Advanced Research Methods

Pathway modules (select according to your focus area)

• Social Research: Choose one module from options such as Politics and Power, Social Theory and Social Justice, or Politics and Society.
• Criminal Psychology: Engage with a specialized module tailored to this field.
• Humanities: Explore methodologies pertinent to humanities research.
• Journalism: Delve into communication theories and ethical considerations relevant to journalism practice.

Independent research project

• Conduct a comprehensive piece of independent research under the guidance of academic supervisors.
• Formulate a research question, employ suitable methods, and produce a final output that showcases your findings.

Additional learning opportunities

• Participate in masterclasses and research-oriented activities to enhance your advanced skills.
• Engage with a vibrant postgraduate community and collaborate on research initiatives where possible.

Entry requirements

To be eligible for the MRes programme, applicants typically need a good honours degree (2:1 or above) and demonstrate their capacity for research. Alternative entry routes may be available for candidates with relevant professional experience and a minimum of three years in practice. In certain cases, a skills needs analysis may be required to assess suitability for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MRes in Social Sciences and Humanities are well-equipped for a variety of career paths. The advanced research skills and critical thinking abilities developed throughout the programme can lead to opportunities in academia, social research, public policy, criminal justice, media, and other fields where analytical skills are paramount.