The Master of Research (MRes) programme at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a cross-faculty, university-wide Master's degree with the aim to develop the next wave of researchers across several fields of study. Grounded in a scholar-practitioner philosophy, the programme comprises of rigorous taught modules with an opportunity to progress an independent research project, within a specific discipline.
Students receive training in research practices and prescribed methodologies, and appreciation of ethics and related protocols, towards advancing qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods inquiry and skills. The MRes programme promotes epistemological engagement, independent thought, identification of a research focus, research relevancy, and understanding and application of methodologically robust analyses.
The MRes is both an excellent opportunity and catalyst for progression into higher-level academic and professional domains. Primarily, it allows for the developing researcher, through a defined focus and project, a potential pathway into doctoral programmes. For example, equipping students with the robust methodological foundation and experience required for PhD or Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) study.
Beyond academia, the curriculum is intentionally designed to prepare students for research-focused and research-intense careers. Graduates develop advanced analytical competence, problem-solving abilities, and project management skills, making them highly competitive for analytical and research-driven roles within public, private, and third-sector organisations.
We welcome Scottish, UK and international students and consider all applicants on an individual basis.
Don’t worry if your qualifications are not listed here, we take a range of factors into account when assessing your application and are happy to consider other alternative combinations of qualifications and experience
If you are applying with an EU or non-EU qualification, please check our Postgraduate Entry Requirements page which gives more information about country-specific entry requirements.
Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. IELTS score of 6.5 overall with no individual component below 6.0.
Please note: The programme team retains discretion regarding admissions decisions following interview and application review.
(approximately, across taught element and enrolled modules)
The MRes programme utilises the institutionally adopted Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) as the primary digital facility to support the learner and researcher journey. The VLE ensures continuous engagement, providing students with access to module descriptors, reading materials, sessions, ethical guidance, and critical research milestones. Additional, research relevant systems and programmes (statistical, analytical, academic writing) will be used as per specific modules and in supporting research(er) development contexts.
Additionally, as an on-campus and in-person delivery programme, students utilise physical university facilities to facilitate peer interaction, collaborative learning, and structured supervisor face-to-face support.
All students should apply directly to the University through our online application system. Before you apply, you should check that you meet our entry requirements and you should have all your supporting documents ready.
The first stage of the process is to complete the initial application form. You will then receive a follow-up email with further instructions relating to your application including documents that you will need to forward to support your application, e.g. degree transcripts and certificates etc.
Most courses don't have a formal closing date, but they will close when they are full; apply early to avoid disappointment. There may also be funding deadlines that apply to you.
The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) applies to all international students and researchers (apart from exempt nationalities) who are subject to UK immigration control and are intending to study or research at postgraduate level in certain sensitive subjects.
Students and researchers who are nationals of EU countries, the European Economic Area (EEA), Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland or the United States of America do not need an ATAS certificate.
An ATAS certificate may be required for certain taught postgraduate master's degrees for international students at UWS.
For the latest information on ATAS and details of eligibility and how to apply for a certificate check the UK Government's dedicated ATAS web pages.
Do you have a question about applying for this course? Our friendly admissions teams are here to help!
International prospective students
Our international team is ready to support you with your application and any questions about joining UWS from abroad.
UK-based prospective students
If you’re applying from within the UK, our applicant enquiry team is here to guide you every step of the way.
With cutting edge facilities, specialist knowledge and world-leading and internationally excellent expertise, we aim to develop research outputs that have a tangible, early and positive impact on society across the globe.
DiscoverWe will always try to make sure that we publish accurate course information but we do not accept responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. We will also try to make sure that we deliver our courses in line with our published information. However, we may not always be able to do so and you can find further information about this in our enrolment terms and conditions.