Bournemouth University

What you'll study

The MPhil is a research-focused programme rather than a taught course of modules. You will develop and complete an original research project under the guidance of experienced supervisors from Bournemouth University Business School and the Faculty of Legal and Human Sciences. Typical research themes include strategy and entrepreneurship, marketing and consumer behaviour, organisational behaviour and human resource management, finance and accounting, digital business and innovation, corporate governance, public policy and regulation, and applied legal research.

Although the emphasis is on a supervised thesis, students normally take part in structured research training. This includes research methods workshops (qualitative and quantitative), academic writing and publication support, ethics and governance training, and seminars where you present work-in-progress. You will be expected to produce a substantial thesis that demonstrates critical understanding of the literature, an appropriate methodological approach, rigorous analysis, and conclusions with clear implications for theory and/or practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a relevant master’s degree with a strong research component, or in some cases a good honours degree plus evidence of research experience or published work. A clear and feasible research proposal that aligns with the Faculty’s research expertise is essential, and you should identify potential supervisors in advance.

Applications normally require an academic CV, two or more academic references, transcripts, and a research proposal outlining aims, context, methodology and a proposed timetable. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency via an approved test or equivalent qualification; specific language requirements are available from the university’s admissions guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates from the MPhil can pursue a range of careers. Common pathways include progression to a PhD, academic research and teaching roles, and research positions in think-tanks and public sector organisations. The skills developed — advanced research design, data analysis, critical evaluation and effective communication — are also highly valued in management consultancy, policy analysis, market research, corporate strategy, and specialist roles in legal practice or compliance.

Many students combine academic ambitions with industry engagement, using the degree to advance a professional career by producing applied research that informs organisational decision-making, regulatory practice or new product and service development.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers a research-rich environment with supervisors active in applied and interdisciplinary business and law scholarship. The Business School has strong links with regional, national and international organisations, providing opportunities for collaborative projects and knowledge exchange. The Doctoral College and faculty research support provide structured training, funding advice, and peer networks to support progression and publication.

Students benefit from a campus-focused experience with access to research facilities, databases, and workshops on research methods and academic publishing. The university’s emphasis on impactful, practice-informed research makes it well suited to candidates who want their work to inform professional practice, policy or further academic study.