University of Leicester

What you'll study

This research master's combines advanced training in research methods with a substantial independent research project. Core emphasis is placed on research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, and critical engagement with contemporary business and management literatures.

• Research methods and design: modules covering research philosophy, research ethics, research design, and the selection and justification of appropriate methodological approaches.
• Quantitative methods: statistical techniques for business research, including regression analysis, survey design, and data interpretation using common software packages.
• Qualitative methods: approaches such as case study, interviews, focus groups, discourse and thematic analysis, and techniques for ensuring rigour in qualitative research.
• Advanced topical seminars: these typically cover specialist areas such as strategic management, international business, entrepreneurship, organisational behaviour, leadership and HRM, marketing strategy, and operations management; offerings may vary to reflect staff expertise and research themes.
• Research project / dissertation: the central element is a substantial piece of supervised independent research that allows you to apply methods training to an original question in business and management. Students work with an academic supervisor and receive structured milestones for proposal, data collection/analysis and thesis submission.
• Professional and transferable skills: training in academic writing, presentation of research, project management, and preparing outputs for academic and practitioner audiences.

Study is delivered through online lectures, recorded seminars, virtual meetings with supervisors, discussion forums and digital learning resources. The programme is structured to support part-time study over an extended period, with flexible pacing to balance work and study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline at a 2:1 standard or an equivalent qualification. Candidates with a lower classification or with substantial professional experience in a relevant field may be considered on a case-by-case basis. A good honours degree in business, management, economics, social sciences or a related subject is typical.

• Applications usually require a CV, academic transcript(s), a personal statement outlining research interests and reasons for choosing an MRes, and at least one academic or professional reference.
• International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements; equivalent recognised English proficiency test scores are acceptable.
• Because the programme is research-focused, applicants may be asked to provide a brief outline of a potential research topic or questions as part of the admissions assessment.

Career prospects

The MRes Business and Management prepares graduates for a range of research-intensive careers and professional roles. Common progressions include:

• PhD study and academic careers – the MRes provides a direct route to doctoral research and an academic research profile suitable for applying to funded PhD programmes.
• Research roles in consultancy, think-tanks, government departments and industry – using skills in designing studies, analysing data and producing evidence-based recommendations.
• Senior analytical and management roles – roles such as business analyst, strategy advisor, policy analyst, market researcher or operations researcher that benefit from rigorous methods training and independent research experience.
• Knowledge exchange and leadership positions – working at the interface between academia and practice in innovation, organisational development, or corporate strategy.

Graduates often emphasise how the combination of methodical training and a substantial dissertation enhances employability for roles that require critical appraisal, complex problem solving and high-level written communication.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester has a strong research culture and a long history of supporting postgraduate research students. The Business and Management provision draws on active research groups and staff whose interests span strategy, organisations, international business, entrepreneurship, marketing and operations.

• Flexible distance-learning delivery designed for part-time study, enabling you to combine continuing employment with advanced study.
• Supervisory support from experienced academics and access to the University's online library resources, research training workshops and methodological expertise.
• Opportunities to progress to doctoral research within a research-intensive environment and to connect with peers and alumni across sectors.
• A focus on producing rigorous, publishable research and applied outputs that are relevant to both academic and practitioner audiences.

Overall, the MRes Business and Management at Leicester is suited to those seeking to deepen research skills, to launch into doctoral study, or to apply advanced research capability to leadership and advisory roles in business and public policy contexts.