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Posted on 6 May '21
MRes vs MPhil: What’s the Difference?
They might both be research focused Masters, but the MRes and MPhil are actually quite different degrees. But how are they different?
In this blog we’re going to compare the main similarities and differences between these two degrees. After covering factors like course length, tuition fees and purpose, hopefully you will have a better understanding of what the MRes and MPhil are.
Purpose of the degree
So, the thing that distinguishes both the MRes and the MPhil from other Master degrees is that they’re both research focused. This means that for both degrees you will be predominantly working on your own research project with the help of a supervisor. Taught content will be limited and potentially not included at all.
However, that’s about as far as their similarities between these two qualifications go. Their overall purposes are quite different, impacting their structure and entry requirements.
In general terms, an MRes is designed to train you in research. You might want to consider this degree if you’re planning to apply for a PhD, but don’t have much research experience in that field. An MRes can also be useful for graduates planning to work in research heavy industries.
If you decide to complete an MRes, you will probably do so instead of a taught Masters - though both degrees can be beneficial to future researchers. It’s worth doing some research to decide which degree might be more suitable for you.
An MPhil, however, is a standalone independent project and is ideal if you are prepared to carry out some substantial original of your own.
Although it can be taken as an independent degree, the MPhil is often part of a PhD programme. In countries like the UK, many students are required to undergo a confirmation review at the end of their first year (or second for part-time students). Upon successful completion they will be confirmed as a doctoral candidate. If, however, the project is considered too narrow for the length of a PhD thesis then the student may be encouraged to aim for an MPhil.
Course content
As the two degrees are designed for students at different levels in their research career, their course content differs a bit.
Although both degrees stress the importance of individual study, the MRes offers more training opportunities. Depending on the course, you may be required to complete taught modules in practical skills. These could include topics such as research techniques, constructing a methodology or research ethics. Some MRes programmes also include one or two taught modules of the kind you’d expect from an MA or MSc (including assessments). Ultimately though, you’ll spend a big part of your time carrying out one or more independent projects under the supervision of an academic advisor.
The MPhil, on the other hand, will expect you to already have some research experience. The programme is completely independent, with no compulsory teaching and assessment. Instead, you will only work on your proposed project. Regular meetings with a supervisor are also encouraged to make sure that independent research remains on track.
If the MPhil is taken as part of a PhD programme, then your initial research will go on to shape the overall PhD.
Course length
Both courses are shorter than an undergraduate degree or PhD. Like a taught Masters, MRes degrees are traditionally one year in length, full time.
The length of an MPhil will depend on whether the course is being taken independently from a PhD. As part of a PhD programme, the MPhil takes one year to complete. Independently, an MPhil can take up to two years full time study, depending on the institution.
Cost
Tuition fees for both programmes vary. A UK MRes will usually cost around the same as an MA or MSc in the same subject (roughly £8,000 or so, on average) but may be slightly cheaper. An MPhil almost always will be cheaper, as these programmes tend not to include teaching and assessment – expect to pay as little as £4,000 per year in some subjects.
Entry requirements
An MRes will usually require students to have at least a 2.1 Bachelors degree. Applicants may also be asked for a research proposal. This is to check that you have a realistic and viable research idea that can be supported by the current staff members.
Students applying for an MPhil may need a taught Masters as well as a Bachelors, particularly if the degree is part of a PhD programme. Applicants will be expected to have a more detailed research proposal and may need to have contacted an academic willing to supervise them.
Overall worth
On paper, the overall worth of an MRes and an MPhil is the same. Both are qualified by the NQF (National Qualifications Framework) as level seven degrees. This puts them at the same level as other Masters degrees, such as the MA and MSc.
However, the MPhil is often considered slightly more prestigious. As students are expected to have developed and demonstrates more advanced research skills, the MPhil is sometimes interpreted as being ‘higher’ than other Masters. Effectively, it sits between a Masters and a PhD.
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Last updated: 06 May 2021
