| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-23 | - |
Program Overview
The MSc Applied Research program at Staffordshire University empowers students to tailor their postgraduate studies to their research interests. Through a flexible blended learning approach, students develop expertise in their chosen field, gaining research skills, ethical perspectives, and the ability to disseminate their findings effectively. The program offers a high degree of customization, allowing students to negotiate their learning contract and specialize in areas such as archaeology, psychology, or environmental science.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The MSc Applied Research program at Staffordshire University is designed to enable students to tailor their postgraduate studies to meet their individual research and career aspirations. The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become experts in their chosen field while providing numerous opportunities to interact with researchers from diverse academic backgrounds.
Objectives:
- To equip students with the necessary research skills and methodologies applicable to their chosen subject area.
- To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the ethical and methodological perspectives within various academic fields.
- To enable students to effectively disseminate their research findings in formats appropriate to subject-specific and professional expectations.
Program Description:
- Structure: This program blends core modules with the option to choose from a variety of electives or design a bespoke study plan. Students can pursue their studies through a flexible blended learning approach, combining online and on-campus learning experiences.
- Uniqueness: The program allows for a significant degree of customization, enabling students to negotiate the exact content of their studies across various disciplines. In collaboration with the university, students develop a learning contract that specifies the title of their degree to reflect their chosen area of specialization.
- Past Student Concentrations: Archaeology, Biological and Biomedical Science, Environment and Geography, Policing, Criminal Investigation and Safeguarding, Psychology, Sport and Exercise.
- Award upon Completion: MSc Applied Research (with the specific specialization title reflected in the learning contract).
Outline:
Content:
The program consists of three main strands: research training, subject development, and research project. The curriculum aims to equip students with a diverse range of research techniques and methods tailored to their chosen subject area. Additionally, the program explores ethical and methodological perspectives within various academic fields. Students are also trained in effectively disseminating their research findings through various formats.
Structure:
- Year 1:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Creative Research Skills: Tools and Techniques (40 credits)
- Research, Design and Application (20 credits)
- Independent Major Project (60 credits)
- Optional Modules: (choose 40 credits worth)
- Applied Experience (40 credits)
- Environmental Advocacy and Action (20 credits)
- Environmental Policy and Planning: A Water Perspective (20 credits)
- Managing Natural Resources and Sustainable Smart Cities (20 credits)
- Negotiated Module 1 (20 credits)
- Negotiated Module 2 (20 credits)
- People, Technology and Place (20 credits)
- Research Assistantship (20 credits)
- Year 2:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Independent Major Project (60 credits)
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Practice (formative) assessments: allow students to test their understanding and improve their skills.
- Formal (summative) assessments: conducted at the end of each module and include essays, exams, or portfolios.
Feedback:
- Feedback on practice assessments is provided to help students improve their understanding.
- Feedback on formal assessments is typically provided within 20 working days.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Problem-based learning
- Group work
- Workshops
- Independent study
Support:
- Academic Skills team: provides support with study skills, written English, academic writing, research skills, critical thinking, revision, and assessment skills.
- Student Inclusion Services: provides support for students with additional needs such as dyslexia or a sensory impairment.
Careers:
Career Opportunities:
- Research roles in various fields
- Opportunities to make a positive impact in different sectors
Other:
- Program Duration: 13 months (full-time) or 22 months (part-time)
- Start Date: 23 September 2024
- Entry Requirements:
- Honours degree in a related area (typically 2:1 classification)
- Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
- Research proposal outlining your intended research area
- Program Cost:
- Full-time, blended learning: £8,900 per year (UK/Channel Islands students) or £16,750 per year (international students)
- Part-time, blended learning: £8,865 per year (UK/Channel Islands students) or £16,740 per year (international students)
- Financial Support:
- Postgraduate loan of up to £11,570 available for eligible students
- Additional Resources:
- University Facilities
- Accommodation Options
Overview:
Staffordshire University is a public university located in Staffordshire, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various subject areas, including business, health, education, technology, and the arts. The university is known for its focus on practical learning, industry partnerships, and student support.
Services Offered:
Academic Support:
Staffordshire University provides academic support services to students, including study skills workshops, writing support, and academic advising.Health and Wellbeing:
The university offers a range of health and wellbeing services, such as counseling, mental health support, and fitness facilities.Student Safety:
Staffordshire University prioritizes student safety and provides resources and support to ensure a safe and secure campus environment.Diversity and Inclusion:
The university is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus community and offers support services for students from diverse backgrounds.Careers Support:
Staffordshire University provides career guidance and support to students, including career fairs, workshops, and one-on-one advising.Fees and Finance:
The university offers information and support regarding tuition fees, student loans, bursaries, and scholarships.Accommodation:
Staffordshire University provides on-campus accommodation options for students, with guaranteed accommodation for eligible students.Campus and Facilities:
The university has campuses in Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, and London, offering a range of facilities, including libraries, computer labs, sports centers, and student unions.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Staffordshire University offers a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, societies, and sports teams. The university also organizes events and activities throughout the year, providing opportunities for students to socialize, learn new skills, and make lifelong friends.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Practical Learning:
Staffordshire University emphasizes practical learning and provides students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships, placements, and industry projects.Industry Partnerships:
The university has strong industry partnerships, providing students with access to real-world opportunities and career connections.Student Support:
Staffordshire University is committed to providing comprehensive student support services, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed.Global Opportunities:
The university offers study abroad programs and international partnerships, providing students with opportunities to gain global experience.Academic Programs:
Staffordshire University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various subject areas, including:
Undergraduate:
Acting and Drama, Animation and Visual Effects, Art and Design, Biomedical Science, Business, Computing, Criminology, Education, Engineering, English, Esports, Film and Media, Forensic Science, Games, Health and Social Care, History, Law, Midwifery, Music, Nursing, Operating Department Practice, Paramedic Science, Policing, Psychology, Social Work, and Sport and Exercise.Postgraduate:
The university offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including Masters degrees, PhDs, and research degrees.Other:
Entry Requirements:
UK Qualifications:
- An honors degree in a related area, typically with a 2:1 classification. However, experience relevant to your discipline area and potential to work at a Masters level will also be considered when offering a place.
International Qualifications:
- An equivalent qualification to a UK honors degree, typically with a good GPA.
- For students whose first language is not English, you must have achieved Level 6.5 overall and no lower than 6.0 in all components of IELTS (or equivalent).
Additional Notes:
- Your application should include a short proposal of your research to ensure that the university can provide you with supervision. You can do this in the ‘Personal Statement’ section.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Please note that these requirements may be subject to change.
