Masters Degrees in Research Skills

Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Social Research Methods at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

This Master's degree in Social Research Methods aims to provide advanced training in a range of research methods used in the social sciences.

Key Features of MSc in Social Research Methods

Teaching and Employability:

- Teaching is carried out by highly-respected, research active, professionals conducting research across a range of research areas and publishing in top international journals

- Students benefit from state-of-the-art technology with over twenty general purpose research rooms and numerous specialised testing facilities

- Specialist modules in criminology, social work and human geography, research leadership and management

- Emphasis on development of ethical, knowledgeable, skilful social researchers” through critical discussion, up to date information, debates and presentations

MSc Social Research Methods is a highly regarded and prestigious qualification which has been developed to:

- enable students to develop practical research skills and advanced methodological expertise (both qualitative and quantitative);

- instil familiarity with research ethics and governance, and

- gain knowledge about theoretical research concerns across the spectrum of social science disciplines.

Elective modules and a dissertation provide scope for specialisation in applied social sciences, including but not limited to: criminology, human geography, social work and health.

This Master’s degree in Social Research Methods has ESRC accreditation and provides advanced training in a range of research methods used in the social sciences. The degree instils familiarity with research ethics and governance, and students gain knowledge about theoretical research concerns across the spectrum of social science disciplines.

Students on the Social Research Methods course are encouraged to devise research dissertations themselves (supported by an academic supervisor).

Modules

Modules on the Social Research Methods programme typically include:

Qualitative Research Methods

Introduction to Research and Study Skills

Data Collection Methods

Ethics and Philosophy of Social Research

Quantitative Research Methods

Advanced Research in Human Geography

Research Leadership and Project Management

Case Studies in Applied Social Research: Social Work

Case Studies in Applied Social Res: Applied Research in Crime & Criminal Justice

Dissertation (Social Research)

Social Research Methods Course Structure

Teaching is in the form of lectures, seminars, group-project work and individual study. All Social Research Methods students are assigned a Personal Tutor and Dissertation Supervisor appropriate to their chosen area of study.

The Social Research Methods course is made up of six 20-credit modules (Part 1) and a 60-credit dissertation (Part 2).

Who should apply?

The Social Research Methods course is suitable for:

- students who want to prepare themselves for the challenge of MPhil or PhD study; who are already professionally involved in working with people in the social sector and want to develop their own skills and professional expertise

- students from different academic disciplines who are interested in conducting social research and are interested in seeking employment or already have employment in both public and private sectors

- previous students are those with backgrounds in social policy, sociology, law, criminology, human geography, politics, arts and humanities, ageing studies , psychology and health science

- anyone wanting to add a valuable qualification as part of developing a full academic career

- anyone who is interested in society, social behaviour, and social change and would like to learn more

- anyone working in, or wishing to work in, government or voluntary organisations, and commercial areas where social research is undertake

Career Prospects

Past Social Research Methods students have gone on to be employed in public and private sectors, research work, PhD , vocational work, the criminal justice system, social work, environmental health, teaching, local government, the Office of National Statistics (ONS) and health and social care.

Staff Expertise

Contributing lecturers are renowned nationally and internationally. For example, Professor David Hughes has published on the universal coverage healthcare reforms of Thailand and Turkey, Debbie Jones jointly led on The Student Sex Workers' project from Swansea University's Centre for Criminal Justice and Criminology.

The MSc Social Research methods is serviced by research active staff, many of whom are leaders in their field of research. The team has strong links with Criminology whose staff have been awarded Howard league Research Medal 2013 for work on the Swansea Bureau Youth Scheme. Lecturers from the course also include those from the world renowned Centre for Innovative Aging and also Human Geography.

Postgraduate Community

The College of Human and Health Sciences has a vibrant postgraduate community with students drawn from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities. The College is known for its friendly, welcoming and supportive environment, which combined with its extensive facilities, state-of-the-art technology and superb beachside location, helps to ensure that students benefit from an exceptional student experience.

In addition, students have access to a wide range of excellent facilities and equipment for realistic workplace experiences.

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In the current knowledge economy and information age, the demand for social, market and marketing research has increased substantially as organizations have recognized the growing need for research on which key policy and strategic decisions are based. The Research Analyst graduate certificate program focuses on the theoretical, practical and ethical underpinnings of research, while also equipping you with the statistical, technical and professional skills necessary to do applied research in a variety of different settings throughout the public and private sectors.

In this program, you will focus on all of the major aspects of the research process including research design, information retrieval and evaluation, data collection, analysis and interpretation, and the preparation and presentation of the research findings.

Special features of the program include an emphasis on professional, ethical and legal implications when designing research studies; new research technologies for data collection; analysis; presentation; proposal writing; research entrepreneurship; project management; and program evaluation.

Professional Accreditations

This program is recognized by the Marketing Research and Intelligence Association (MRIA) as being an official post-graduate program designate. This enables graduates of the program to take advantage of Pathway 1 to the Certified Marketing Research Professional (CMRP) designation.

Course detail

Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:

• Retrieve, process, and present market research information and findings using current online and stand-alone information technology tools.
• Conduct social and market research with a high degree of accuracy and reliability, which can inform major organizational and business decisions.
• Write documentation to collect, and support the collection, of data for social and market research projects.
• Interpret qualitative and quantitative research through the analysis and presentation of empirical data to meet the needs and objectives of the client.
• Ensure that all analysis of numerical and text data is consistent with the appropriate principles of descriptive statistics and techniques of statistical inference.
• Design and implement research projects for international and domestic populations with varied cultural and linguistic demographic profiles.
• Formulate plans for social and market research that will meet the needs of the client and follow all theoretical, practical, ethical, and legal guidelines related to the collection of data and the privacy of personal information.
• Design and implement research projects that address the unique characteristics of public, private or not-for-profit organizations.
• Prepare applications for the research ethical review board in an effective manner.
• Complete all work in accordance with ethical, legislative, and professional requirements and standards.

[Modules]]

Semester 1
• RAPP 5001: Surveying Society
• RAPP 5002: Qualitative Research Methods 1
• RAPP 5003: Spreadsheet and Table Management
• RAPP 5004: Quantitative Research Methods 1
• RAPP 5005: Research Communication and Proposal Writing Skills
• RAPP 5006: Research Ethics and Standards

Semester 2
• RAPP 5011: Research Seminar
• RAPP 5012: Qualitative Research Methods 2
• RAPP 5013: Research Management
• RAPP 5014: Quantitative Research Methods 2
• RAPP 5015: Database Management
• RAPP 5016: New Research Technologies
• RAPP 5021: Research Analyst Placement

Work Placement

Students complete a twelve-week placement beginning in May, which allows them to gain invaluable practical and professional experience.

Your Career

Graduates of this program may find employment as analysts, community and social development officers, consumer advisers, economic policy researchers, education policy researchers, health and social policy development officers, health policy researchers, housing policy analysts, market and marketing researchers, program officers, research consultants, and social survey researchers.

How to apply

Click here to apply: http://humber.ca/admissions/how-apply.html

Funding

For information on funding, please use the following link: http://humber.ca/admissions/financial-aid.html

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Our MSc in Social Science Research Methods aims to provide advanced training in research methods across the full range of the social sciences.

You will be provided with a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of how to construct effective research studies, of the variety of data collection methods available to the social scientist and of the principal methods of analysing social scientific data. You will also be introduced to the political and ethical frameworks within which social science research is conducted, and to some of the ways in which the results of social science research are disseminated.

The course pathways have ESRC recognition and they each provide the appropriate training basis for proceeding to a PhD. These programmes provide extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study, the application of social research expertise for occupational career development, and the pursuit of substantive areas of interest at postgraduate level.

The Management and Business Studies pathway

This pathway is suitable for two groups of people:

• Those people, especially business practitioners, who want to develop their understanding of and skills in applied research work.
• Those planning to undertake a PhD on a topic pertaining to management disciplines such as human resource management, organisational behaviour, strategic management, public sector management, marketing, accounting, finance, logistics and operations management.

Research training in Management and Business Studies builds on the internationally recognised research carried out by academic staff within Cardiff Business School. You will benefit from specialist expertise in management research as well as from the broad research profile of the School and links with wider Cardiff University research.

Sub-pathways within Management and Business Studies are:

• Banking, Accounting and Finance
• Logistics and Operations Management
• Human Resource Management
• Marketing and Strategy.

The course can be taken as a PGDip or MSc and is available for full-time study or part-time study.

Full-time PGDip

For the one-year full-time programme you will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module. In all modules you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words. The 60-credit dissertation component requires independent study. Dissertation topics are chosen by the students in agreement with their supervisors.

Core modules:

Qualitative Research Methods
Quantitative Research Methods
Developing Core Research Skills
Foundations of Social Science Research
Research Applications

Full-time MSc

For the one-year full-time programme you will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module.

In all modules, you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

Core modules:

All the core modules of PGDip PLUS a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words. The 60-credit dissertation component requires independent study. Dissertation topics are chosen by the students in agreement with their supervisors.

Part-time PGDip

Two year part time programme.

For the taught component, you will be required to complete six 20-credit modules (5 core research modules and 1 pathway module). In all modules you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

Please visit the website to see a full list of the modules available for this pathway

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-business-and-management-studies-pgdip-part-time

Part-time MSc

For the three-year part-time programme you will be required to complete six 20-credit modules - five core research modules and one specialist pathway module. In all modules you will have the opportunity to engage with literature and research relevant to your pathway.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words. The 60-credit dissertation component requires independent study. Dissertation topics are chosen by the students in agreement with their supervisors.

Please visit the website to see a full list of the modules available for this pathway:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/social-science-research-methods-business-and-management-studies-msc-part-time

Teaching

Your programme will be made up of scheduled learning activities (including lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions) and guided independent study.

You will be expected to actively engage in all the educational activities on your programme of study, to prepare for and attend all scheduled teaching activities, and continue your development as an independent and self-directed learner.

Support

All modules within the programme make use of our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Learning Central, on which you will find course materials, links to related materials and information on assessment. You will be allocated a personal tutor.

Assessment

You will have to successfully complete the taught component which comprises of 120 credits.

On successful completion of the taught component, you will prepare a dissertation of a maximum 20,000 words (MSc only)

Career prospects

This programme provides knowledge and expertise suitable for careers in research and development, business, market studies, public agencies at international, national and local levels, education, teaching and other public services work, and voluntary organisations.

It also provides appropriate training for proceeding to a PhD.

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This Masters by Research degree provides you with the opportunity to develop the knowledge and research skills that are essential foundations for further research and an academic career. The programme adopts an interdisciplinary approach, teaching both practical and theoretical aspects of research. The focus is on acquiring the knowledge and skills to design, conduct, evaluate and disseminate your own individual research project. You will also acquire a range of transferable skills that are highly sought after by employers, including the capacity for critical thought, project management, time management, presentation skills, and the ability to disseminate original research.

The programme has been designed to suit candidates from a range of backgrounds and disciplines. It is particularly suitable if you are aspiring to work in a research-based career, focus on a single topic of interest, or gain ideal preparation for undertaking a PhD.

What will I study?

The MRes comprises 60 credits of taught provision and 120 credits of individual research.

The taught components will cover research design, research project management and research ethics, as well as more general conceptual, epistemological and methodological matters in relation to research. You will also address more specific conceptual, epistemological and methodological matters appropriate for your subject area.

On completion of the taught modules, you will complete an individual research project.

How will I study?

Full-time students will complete two taught modules in the first three months of study and can then take up to nine months undertaking the research project.

Part-time students will complete two taught modules in the first six months of study and can then take up to 12 months undertaking the research project.

The completion of your individual research project will be supported by regular supervision meetings with an expert in your chosen discipline.

How will I be assessed?

The taught elements of the programme will be assessed through the production of a research proposal, a project management plan and a skills development portfolio.

The individual research project will be assessed through a dissertation, or appropriate alternative, as well as a viva voce examination.

Who will be teaching me?

The teaching team comprises experts from across the university who have international research profiles in their discipline.

What are my career prospects?

The skills and experience acquired through an MRes programme will provide ideal preparation for progressing to higher research qualifications, such as MPhil and PhD, or pursuing a research-based career.

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Your programme of study

If you want to develop your career in academic research within a medical environment and you need the research methodology to do this, Medical Research Skills will enable you to provide wide ranging research techniques to not only improve and widen your career and employability, but make a name for yourself within your chosen field of expertise. The PGCert is ideal if you are studying within Aberdeenshire, Angus, and Moray and possibly in most of Scotland to fit around your medical work. It can be available over 12 or 24 months

This programme will provide training in generic research skills within a clinical context. The rationale is to equip Aberdeen AFP doctors with fundamental research skills that will enable them to pursue a clinical academic career. Clinical academia is a strongly competitive environment. Thus the need for doctors to have a keen and active interest, along with the appropriate research training and portfolio, has never been greater. The University of Aberdeen College of Life Sciences and Medicine recognises this and is offering this unique opportunity to further develop your clinical academic profile and standing.

Courses listed for the programme

Year 1
Research Skills

Year 2
Research Skills and Scientific Writing

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/182/medical-research-skills/

Why study at Aberdeen?

• This is the first programme of its kind in the UK to provide generic research skills in a clinical context
• You will be taught by renowned researchers with full medical and research careers in one of the top 10 medical schools in the UK
• You gain access to valuable research networks and opportunities whilst you learn

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• Part Time
• 24 months

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees:
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/finance-funding-1599.php
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:
• Your Accommodation
• Campus Facilities
• Aberdeen City
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies

Find out more about living in Aberdeen:
https://abdn.ac.uk/study/student-life

Living costs
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/finance.php

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We have a national and international reputation as a centre of excellence and provide wide and varied opportunities for students to undertake research. Our academic expertise covers a broad range of disciplines grouped into three main departments:

Disability Inclusion and Special Needs
Education and Social Justice
Teacher Education
We also have a number of highly successful research centres which reflect the diversity of our research activity

Our strategy towards research and research degrees is centred on three key principles:

Research should seek to combine scholarly and empirical work on fundamental issues with a concern for development work linked to practice; a dialogue between fundamental study and development work can enrich both
Research should recognise the importance of professional practice and be pursued through active collaboration with schools, colleges, LAs, and voluntary and other professional bodies in the UK and internationally
Research is often a multidisciplinary activity and strong links across specialisms must be encouraged and supported
The interdependence of research with development and professional practice means that we particularly welcome the contribution of research students to our work. We provide a comprehensive programme of research training, together with opportunities to take part in research seminars where speakers with national and international reputations present work that is at the forefront of current debates within the field.

The Education MA by Research:

The MA by Research is a pure masters level research course. Students will need to complete a thesis of 40,000 words maximum and a research training programme.

This programme is suitable for applicants who are interested in developing their independent research skills and many students who complete this course progress onto PhD study afterwards.

About the School of Education

The School of Education has a long-standing reputation as a centre of excellence for teaching and research in a wide range of areas of educational practice and policy. It is an international leader in education with a history of top rated research. In the 2016 QS World Rankings, it was ranked 28th in the World and joint 7th in Europe/UK.
The School employs over 100 academic staff who teach more than 2,500 students. It is home to a number of departments and research centres with a history of top rated research and is an international leader in education.
School of Education ranking:
- Ranked 6th in the Guardian University League Tables 2017
- Ranked 10th in the 2017 Complete University Guide
- In Top 3 for HEI provision in the Good Teacher Training Guide
- Ranked 28th in the World in the 2016 QS World Rankings
- Ranked 9th overall for Research in the 2014 REF (with more than 82% of research rated as ‘internationally excellent’ (3*) or ‘world leading’ (4*).
- Rated 'outstanding' in latest Ofsted inspection (2013) for its Teacher Training programmes
- Ranked third for Education in The Times Good University Guide 2017

Funding and Scholarships

There are many ways to finance your postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. To see what funding and scholarships are available, please visit: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding

Open Days

Explore postgraduate study at Birmingham at our on-campus open days.
Register to attend at: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/visit

Virtual Open Days

If you can’t make it to one of our on-campus open days, our virtual open days run regularly throughout the year. For more information, please visit: http://www.pg.bham.ac.uk

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Overview

The MSc in Business Research is a one-year programme which provides students with advanced training in the research skills, techniques and methodologies to conduct their own research in business. The programme can also be taken part-time over two years.
Students who successfully complete the master will have developed the knowledge and skills to begin the preparation of a doctoral thesis and may therefore request admission to the PhD in Business. Attainment of the MSc degree also prepares students for careers in research and policymaking in the public and private sectors. You must note, however, that it is a research-oriented programme and not a professional MBA.
The programme attracts students from around the world. A typical class profile has a percentage of international student of over 60%. As the master is taught in Spanish (55%) and English (45%), a good command of both languages is needed.
The MSc in Business Research offers international research excellence in business administration and management. It also provides the means for students to develop skills and abilities in research that meet the highest standards. Students are exposed to a rich training curriculum as well as a wide offering of master classes, research seminars, workshops and conferences. These offerings shape academic skills and at the same time create sensitivity for practical business opportunities and challenges.

You can find more information on the programme content here: http://www.ub.edu/business-school/msc-in-business-research/#phdb-programmecontent053b-d05d

Students must complete 60 credits comprising 30 core course credits and 30 free-elective credits. Given its research orientation, the master degree requires a teaching model that combines a practical approach with master classes, which provide the conceptual foundations of business research. Lessons in the computer room are essential in order to master statistical techniques and databases.

Career Opportunities

Students who successfully complete the master will have developed the knowledge and skills to begin a doctoral thesis and may therefore request admission to the PhD in Business. This is one of the most popular career choices for MSc in Business Research graduates. In fact, the master is intended to serve as a foundation for doctoral research, which in turn constitutes the first step towards an academic career.
Not all students decide to follow this route, though. Some prefer to make the transition to the labour market straight after finishing their master degree and others wait until they have completed their doctorate. According to data provided by the Catalan government, 95.4% of all PhD social sciences graduates find a job in less than three years, and the unemployment rate is below 3.3%. Therefore, the MSc and the PhD allow students to improve their position in the job market.
The Faculty of Economics and Business has a dedicated Careers Services office, which offers guidance and facilitates employment for graduates. It manages the Job Bank, where companies post job offers and available work placements. The Career Services office also works to strengthen students’ entrepreneurial skills and offers the Coworking Space as a place for developing projects and sharing ideas and strategies.

You can find more information on career opportunities here: http://www.ub.edu/business-school/msc-in-business-research/#phdb-careers053b-d05d

Funding

The University of Barcelona offer various options for funding across postgraduate and doctoral study.

You can find more information on available funding here: http://www.ub.edu/web/ub/en/estudis/suport_estudi/beques_ajuts/beques_ajuts.html

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Gain the formal research training experience you need to begin an exciting professional research degree at James Cook University.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods, graduates will be able to:
*Identify, investigate, analyse and synthesise a research problem applying appropriate methodological concepts and theories in a small-scale research project
*Apply knowledge and understanding of research ethics in the preparation of a successful ethics application for a research project
*Design, plan, conduct and complete a substantial research-based thesis with creativity and initiative and a high level of autonomy and accountability
*Analyse and interpret results from a research project, and critically evaluate and synthesise results in the context of contemporary research literature and / or demonstrate advanced knowledge of recent developments, discourses and debates in a relevant discipline area and/or related areas of professional practice
*Demonstrate a high standard of ethical conduct in research, exercising autonomy, responsibility, accountability, and well-developed independent judgement
*Communicate specialised knowledge, ideas and arguments accurately, coherently and creatively to a variety of audiences through written manuscripts and oral presentations.

Award title

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE OF RESEARCH METHODS (GCertResMeth)

Course articulation

Students seeking admission to a research higher degree should consult the University’s HDR Degree by Research Requirements http://www.jcu.edu.au/policy/research/allresearch/JCU_132774.html .
Students seeking admission to a Masters by Research must have obtained at least a GPA 5.0 (Credit) for the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods.
To be eligible to apply for direct admission to a PhD, students must have obtained at least a GPA 6.0 (Distinction) for the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods, and have successfully completed an appropriate research methods subject at AQF 8 or higher.

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 1 - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 6.0 (no component lower than 5.5), OR
*TOEFL – 550 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 4.0), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 79 (minimum writing score of 19), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 57

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English language proficiency requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Application deadlines

*1st February for commencement in semester one (February)
*1st July for commencement in semester two (mid-year/July)

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Gain the formal research training experience you need to begin an exciting professional research degree at James Cook University.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods, graduates will be able to:
*Identify, investigate, analyse and synthesise a research problem applying appropriate methodological concepts and theories in a small-scale research project
*Apply knowledge and understanding of research ethics in the preparation of a successful ethics application for a research project
*Design, plan, conduct and complete a substantial research-based thesis with creativity and initiative and a high level of autonomy and accountability
*Analyse and interpret results from a research project, and critically evaluate and synthesise results in the context of contemporary research literature and / or demonstrate advanced knowledge of recent developments, discourses and debates in a relevant discipline area and/or related areas of professional practice
*Demonstrate a high standard of ethical conduct in research, exercising autonomy, responsibility, accountability, and well-developed independent judgement
*Communicate specialised knowledge, ideas and arguments accurately, coherently and creatively to a variety of audiences through written manuscripts and oral presentations.

Award title

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE OF RESEARCH METHODS (GCertResMeth)

Course articulation

Students seeking admission to a research higher degree should consult the University’s HDR Degree by Research Requirements http://www.jcu.edu.au/policy/research/allresearch/JCU_132774.html .
Students seeking admission to a Masters by Research must have obtained at least a GPA 5.0 (Credit) for the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods.
To be eligible to apply for direct admission to a PhD, students must have obtained at least a GPA 6.0 (Distinction) for the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods, and have successfully completed an appropriate research methods subject at AQF 8 or higher.

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 1 - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 6.0 (no component lower than 5.5), OR
*TOEFL – 550 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 4.0), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 79 (minimum writing score of 19), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 57

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English language proficiency requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Application deadlines

*1st February for commencement in semester one (February)
*1st July for commencement in semester two (mid-year/July)

Read less

Gain the formal research training experience you need to begin an exciting professional research degree at James Cook University.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods, graduates will be able to:
*Identify, investigate, analyse and synthesise a research problem applying appropriate methodological concepts and theories in a small-scale research project
*Apply knowledge and understanding of research ethics in the preparation of a successful ethics application for a research project
*Design, plan, conduct and complete a substantial research-based thesis with creativity and initiative and a high level of autonomy and accountability
*Analyse and interpret results from a research project, and critically evaluate and synthesise results in the context of contemporary research literature and / or demonstrate advanced knowledge of recent developments, discourses and debates in a relevant discipline area and/or related areas of professional practice
*Demonstrate a high standard of ethical conduct in research, exercising autonomy, responsibility, accountability, and well-developed independent judgement
*Communicate specialised knowledge, ideas and arguments accurately, coherently and creatively to a variety of audiences through written manuscripts and oral presentations.

Award title

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE OF RESEARCH METHODS (GCertResMeth)

Course articulation

Students seeking admission to a research higher degree should consult the University’s HDR Degree by Research Requirements http://www.jcu.edu.au/policy/research/allresearch/JCU_132774.html .
Students seeking admission to a Masters by Research must have obtained at least a GPA 5.0 (Credit) for the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods.
To be eligible to apply for direct admission to a PhD, students must have obtained at least a GPA 6.0 (Distinction) for the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods, and have successfully completed an appropriate research methods subject at AQF 8 or higher.

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 1 - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 6.0 (no component lower than 5.5), OR
*TOEFL – 550 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 4.0), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 79 (minimum writing score of 19), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 57

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English language proficiency requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Application deadlines

*1st February for commencement in semester one (February)
*1st July for commencement in semester two (mid-year/July)

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The MRes degree in Sport, Health and Applied Science is designed for students wishing to pursue postgraduate study, but whose interests are largely in the research area.

The Master of Research qualification allows you to develop a broad range of research knowledge and skills, whilst pursuing a substantial subject-based research project. It differs from other taught Master degrees as it prepares you for higher level research such as an MPhil or PhD (should you wish to pursue this route).

The programme will focus upon research design, statistical understanding and evidence-based practice.

Why St Mary's?

Staff at St Mary's have a wealth of teaching and research experience in the fields of Sport, Health and Applied Science. Staff members are immersed in a diverse and extensive range of research topics including sport, performance, nutrition, health, exercise and physics.

This postgraduate degree programme teaches the key concepts of scientific research and encourages research in our state of the art facilities which include an environmental chamber, BASES accredited physiology laboratories, anthropometric and biomechanics laboratories and the Performance Education Centre.

Course Content

Module Information - What Will You Study?
› Skills for the Researcher
› Research Methods
› Statistics
› Research Methods Two
› Supervised Research Project

Please note: All information is correct at the time of publication. However, course content is regularly updated and this may result in some changes, which will be communicated to students before their programme begins.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the programme you will be able to:
-Show a systematic understanding of knowledge and critical awareness of the key concepts scientific research.
-Demonstrate the ability to critically and constructively analyse concepts, findings and theories, and research in your field, and to communicate these analyses for a variety of audiences, using different methods of dissemination.
-Exhibit originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are applied to create and interpret knowledge in sport, health and exercise research.
-Critically evaluate current evidence and produce sound judgements in the absence of complete data.
-Apply evaluation of research materials, making allowances for limitations and oversights in the research field.
-Show a comprehensive competence in selecting and applying appropriate investigative techniques to a research investigation.
-Apply the methods and techniques learned to extend knowledge and understanding through the conduct and dissemination of original research.
-Demonstrate qualities and transferable skills that can be applied in a wide range of employment situations. These include: exercising initiative; responsibility; decision making; and a proactive, independent approach to research projects.
-Reveal the ability to reflect and critically evaluate your own knowledge, skills and performance, leading to an appreciation of the concept of professionalism in your own research.

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Gain the formal research training experience you need to begin an exciting professional research degree at James Cook University.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods, graduates will be able to:
*Identify, investigate, analyse and synthesise a research problem applying appropriate methodological concepts and theories in a small-scale research project
*Apply knowledge and understanding of research ethics in the preparation of a successful ethics application for a research project
*Design, plan, conduct and complete a substantial research-based thesis with creativity and initiative and a high level of autonomy and accountability
*Analyse and interpret results from a research project, and critically evaluate and synthesise results in the context of contemporary research literature and / or demonstrate advanced knowledge of recent developments, discourses and debates in a relevant discipline area and/or related areas of professional practice
*Demonstrate a high standard of ethical conduct in research, exercising autonomy, responsibility, accountability, and well-developed independent judgement
*Communicate specialised knowledge, ideas and arguments accurately, coherently and creatively to a variety of audiences through written manuscripts and oral presentations.

Award title

Graduate Diploma of Research Methods (GDipResMeth)

Course articulation

Students seeking admission to a research higher degree should consult the University’s HDR Degree by Research Requirements http://www.jcu.edu.au/policy/research/allresearch/JCU_132774.html .
Students seeking admission to a Masters by Research must have obtained at least a GPA 5.0 (Credit) for the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods.
To be eligible to apply for direct admission to a PhD, students must have obtained at least a GPA 6.0 (Distinction) for the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods.

Entry requirements

English band level 1 - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 6.0 (no component lower than 5.5), OR
*TOEFL – 550 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 4.0), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 79 (minimum writing score of 19), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 57

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English language proficiency requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Ban d 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Application deadlines

*1st February for commencement in semester one (February)
*1st July for commencement in semester two (mid-year/July)

Read less

Gain the formal research training experience you need to begin an exciting professional research degree at James Cook University.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods, graduates will be able to:
*Identify, investigate, analyse and synthesise a research problem applying appropriate methodological concepts and theories in a small-scale research project
*Apply knowledge and understanding of research ethics in the preparation of a successful ethics application for a research project
*Design, plan, conduct and complete a substantial research-based thesis with creativity and initiative and a high level of autonomy and accountability
*Analyse and interpret results from a research project, and critically evaluate and synthesise results in the context of contemporary research literature and / or demonstrate advanced knowledge of recent developments, discourses and debates in a relevant discipline area and/or related areas of professional practice
*Demonstrate a high standard of ethical conduct in research, exercising autonomy, responsibility, accountability, and well-developed independent judgement
*Communicate specialised knowledge, ideas and arguments accurately, coherently and creatively to a variety of audiences through written manuscripts and oral presentations.

Award title

Graduate Diploma of Research Methods (GDipResMeth)

Course articulation

Students seeking admission to a research higher degree should consult the University’s HDR Degree by Research Requirements http://www.jcu.edu.au/policy/research/allresearch/JCU_132774.html .
Students seeking admission to a Masters by Research must have obtained at least a GPA 5.0 (Credit) for the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods.
To be eligible to apply for direct admission to a PhD, students must have obtained at least a GPA 6.0 (Distinction) for the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods.

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 1 - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 6.0 (no component lower than 5.5), OR
*TOEFL – 550 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 4.0), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 79 (minimum writing score of 19), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 57

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English language proficiency requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Application deadlines

*1st February for commencement in semester one (February)
*1st July for commencement in semester two (mid-year/July)

Read less

Gain the formal research training experience you need to begin an exciting professional research degree at James Cook University.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods, graduates will be able to:
*Identify, investigate, analyse and synthesise a research problem applying appropriate methodological concepts and theories in a small-scale research project
*Apply knowledge and understanding of research ethics in the preparation of a successful ethics application for a research project
*Design, plan, conduct and complete a substantial research-based thesis with creativity and initiative and a high level of autonomy and accountability
*Analyse and interpret results from a research project, and critically evaluate and synthesise results in the context of contemporary research literature and / or demonstrate advanced knowledge of recent developments, discourses and debates in a relevant discipline area and/or related areas of professional practice
*Demonstrate a high standard of ethical conduct in research, exercising autonomy, responsibility, accountability, and well-developed independent judgement
*Communicate specialised knowledge, ideas and arguments accurately, coherently and creatively to a variety of audiences through written manuscripts and oral presentations.

Award title

Graduate Diploma of Research Methods (GDipResMeth)

Course articulation

Students seeking admission to a research higher degree should consult the University’s HDR Degree by Research Requirements http://www.jcu.edu.au/policy/research/allresearch/JCU_132774.html .
Students seeking admission to a Masters by Research must have obtained at least a GPA 5.0 (Credit) for the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods.
To be eligible to apply for direct admission to a PhD, students must have obtained at least a GPA 6.0 (Distinction) for the Graduate Diploma of Research Methods.

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 1 - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 6.0 (no component lower than 5.5), OR
*TOEFL – 550 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 4.0), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 79 (minimum writing score of 19), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 57

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English language proficiency requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Ban d 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Application deadlines

*1st February for commencement in semester one (February)
*1st July for commencement in semester two (mid-year/July)

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Programme description

Research in an educational setting requires a very specific set of skills. In this advanced-level programme you will gain those skills and develop your understanding of the nature and use of research in education.

Recognised as a Research Training programme by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), this masters has been designed as both a free-standing degree and the first year of doctoral study (the first year of a ‘1+3’ programme).

This programme will allow you to develop analytical and practical skills useful not only for a career in academia but also in other research settings and in the commercial sector. If you are an education professional, the theories and techniques you will develop on this programme will enable you to undertake empirical work in your own area of practice.

On completion of the programme you will be able to critically evaluate research evidence based on quantitative and qualitative data and will have gained the knowledge and experience to conduct rigorous research in education and allied social subjects.

PLEASE NOTE: The MSc Educational Research is currently being reviewed and is likely to become a pathway in the MSc Education programme. The structure of the programme will remain very similar and the new structure will also still count as the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC) recognised programme within the School of Education, being part of the 1+3 PhD structure (1 year MSc and 3 years PhD). Successful applicants of the MSc Educational Research will be required to transfer to the new MSc Education (Research) should this new pathway receive final University approval and validation.

Further informal inquiries about this review can be sent to the programme director (see ‘Further information’ section below).

Programme structure

You will be taught through a range of learning and teaching activities: lectures, seminars, practical training, group work and discussion and self-study activities.

You will complete four programme-specific compulsory courses and two option courses. On completion of your taught courses, you will also produce an independently researched dissertation.

Compulsory courses:

• Nature of Enquiry
• Quantitative Data Analysis with SPSS
• Qualitative Data Research
• Designing Educational Research

Option courses may be chosen from those within the MSc Education, or from other MSc programmes in the School or from elsewhere across the University, subject to approval.

Career opportunities

This programme is an excellent step towards PhD study and a career in academia or in research within government and national or international organisations. It will also provide you with a series of analytical and practical transferable skills that will enhance your career prospects in any field of your choice.

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