research degree meaning

• Postgraduate Research

Research degrees explained: what is a research degree?

A postgraduate research degree is a challenge that someone with a passion for their subject will relish.

You'll develop advanced knowledge and make an original contribution to your field of study.  The core of a postgraduate research degree is the successful completion of a research project that makes an original contribution to knowledge in a particular area of study.

Although guided and advised by an expert, a postgraduate researcher takes full responsibility for their work. They will be expected to successfully plan and manage their research project and to deliver on time (and to budget) a thesis of appropriate standard.  An important aspect of a postgraduate research degree is the opportunity for training, not only in specialist research techniques but also in skills relevant to employability and personal development.

The two types of research degrees are:

• Research master's degrees: MPhil (Master of Philosophy) and MRes (Master of Research)
• Doctoral degrees: PhD (Doctor in Philosophy) , MD (Doctor of Medicine) , and various Professional Doctorates

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) can be thought of as a shorter version of the PhD. It requires the same research skills, training planning, and project management. It can be a way to assess whether you wish to undertake doctoral research - or it can be taken for its own sake.

Master of Research (MRes)

The Master of Research (MRes) degree is a one year full-time or two years part-time master’s degree. The MRes places more emphasis on research skills than a traditional taught master’s degree such as an MA or MSc. For students who wish to proceed to doctoral research, it can be an excellent preparation. It can also be a standalone degree for those who wish to learn research skills, or try themselves out in research.

Doctor in Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor in Philosophy is the classic doctoral research degree. The word 'philosophy' is used in its original sense – in Greek φιλοσοφία (philosophia) translates as "love of wisdom". A doctoral degree is awarded to students that have demonstrated the ability to conceptualise, design, and implement a substantial research project that results in new knowledge, applications, or understanding in their field of study.

There are two main ways of progressing on to PhD study. If you can self-fund or bring your own funding (such as government funding, if you are an overseas applicant) you will generally expect to negotiate the project of your choice with a potential supervisor. Studentship opportunities funded by the University or an external funder such as a Research Council (or both) operate in a more formal way, resembling a job application.

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

The Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a doctoral degree open to medical practitioners (technically, anyone holding a medical qualification registrable with the General Medical Council). It is equivalent in requirements and format to the PhD.

Professional Doctorates

These programmes take several different forms, but have in common the integration of professional and academic knowledge in a qualification which, whilst equivalent in status and challenge to a PhD, is designed for those pursuing professional rather than academic careers.

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• Postgraduate research
• What is a DTP?
• What is distance learning?
• What is a PhD?
• Professional doctorate

What is a research degree?

Research degrees are the highest level of degree usually awarded by UK universities. Successful completion of a PhD or professional doctorate allows the holder to title themselves 'doctor'.

PhD and MPhil degrees are different from taught degrees - such as Bachelors or Masters degrees - because the programme is an independent research project, rather than a programme of assessed coursework.

Professional doctorates

Professional doctorates are equivalent to a PhD but have a focus on a specific professional context.

Doctoral Training Partnerships

Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) or Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) are multi-institutional schemes designed to support the training of the next generation of world-class researchers.

Distance learning

Our distance learning programmes offer a flexible way to study for a research degree - allowing you to gain a University of Leicester research degree wherever you are in the world.

What is a PhD?

• Types of Doctorates
• A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest globally recognized postgraduate degree that higher education institutions can award.
• PhDs are awarded to candidates who undertake original and extensive research in a particular field of study.
• Full time PhD programmes typically last three to four years, whilst part time PhD programmes typically last six to seven years.
• A PhD can lead to an academia teaching role or a career in research. A PhD can also equip you with skills suitable for a wide range of jobs unrelated to your research topic or academia.

Definition of a PhD – A Doctor of Philosophy (commonly abbreviated to PhD , Ph.D or a DPhil ) is a university research degree awarded from across a broad range of academic disciplines; in most countries, it is a terminal degree, i.e. the highest academic degree possible.

PhDs differ from undergraduate and master’s degrees in that PhDs are entirely research-based rather than involving taught modules (although doctoral training centres (DTCs) offer programmes that start with a year of lecture-based teaching to help develop your research skills prior to starting your project).

In most English-speaking countries, those that complete a PhD use the title “Doctor” (typically abbreviated to Dr) in front of their names and are referred to as such within academic and/or research settings. Those that work in fields outside of academia may decide not to use the formal doctor title but use post-nominal letters (e.g. John Smith PhD); it’s unusual though for someone to use both the Doctor title and post-nominal letters in their name.

PhD vs Doctorate

A PhD and a professional doctorate are both research-based terminal degrees.

However, where a PhD focuses on original research mostly around theoretical concepts, a professional doctorate focuses on examining existing knowledge to solve real-life, practical problems.

While there is much crossover between the two, a PhD is generally better suited for an individual to wants to advance the knowledge and understanding in their field, and a professional doctorate degree is better suited to a working professional who wants to better be able to apply knowledge and understanding to their field.

What Are the Entry Requirements for a PhD?

To be accepted on to a PhD programme, students usually need to hold at least a high ( 2:1 and above ) undergraduate degree that is related to the field of research that they want to pursue. A PhD candidate may also be expected to hold a Master’s degree , however, this does not mean you must have one, as it is still possible to enrol into a PhD without a Master’s .

Self-funded courses may sometimes be more relaxed in relation to entry requirements. It may be possible to be accepted onto a self-funded PhD programme with lower grades, though these students typically demonstrate their suitability for the role through professional work experience.

Whilst a distance learning project is possible , most PhD candidates will carry out their research over at least three years based at their university, with regular contact with two academic supervisors (primary and secondary). This is particularly the case for lab-based projects, however, some PhD projects require spending time on-site away from university (e.g. at a specialist research lab or at a collaborating institution abroad).

How Long Does a PhD Take?

Typically, full-time PhDs last 3-4 years and part-time PhDs last 6-7 years. However, at the discretion of the university, the thesis writing-up period can be extended by up to four years.

Although most doctoral programmes start in September or October, they are generally much more flexible than taught-courses and can start at any time of the year.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

Tuition fees for UK and EU students vary between £3,000 and £6,000 per year, with the average tuition fee of £4,712 per year for 2023/24 programmes.

Tuition fees increase considerably for international students, varying between £16,000 to £25,000 per year, with an average tuition fee of £19,600 per year .

Nonetheless, most students will secure PhD funding in the form of studentships, scholarships and bursaries to help pay for these fees. These funding opportunities can either be partial, which cover tuition fees only, or full, which cover both tuition fees and living expenses.

UK national students can also apply for Doctoral Loans from Student Finance England if they are unable to secure funding.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

What Does a PhD Involve?

To be awarded a PhD, a doctoral student is required to produce a substantial body of work that adds new knowledge to their chosen field.

A PhD programme will typically involve four key stages:

Stage 1: Literature Review

The first year of a PhD involves attending regular meetings with your supervisors and carrying out a search on previously published work in your subject area. This search will be used to produce a literature review which should set the context of the project by explaining the foundation of what is currently known within the field of research, what recent developments have occurred, and where the gaps in knowledge are. In most cases, this will be an extension of your research proposal should you have produced one as part of your application. The literature review should conclude by outlining the overarching aims and objectives of the research project. This stage of setting achievable goals which are original and contribute to the field of research is an essential first step in a successful PhD.

The supervisor is the main point of contact through the duration of a PhD – but remember: they are there to mentor, not to teach, or do it for you . It will be your responsibility to plan, execute and monitor your own work as well as to identify gaps in your own knowledge and address them.

Stage 2: Research

The second year (and prehapse some of your third year) is when you work on your research. Having identified novel research questions from your review of the literature, this is where you collect your data to help answer these questions. How you do this will depend on the nature of your doctoral research: for example, you may design and run experiments in a lab alongside other PhD students or visit excavation sites in remote regions of the world. You should check in regularly with your supervisors to update them and run any ideas or issues past them.

Have the structure and chapters of your thesis in mind as you develop and tackle your research questions. Working with a view of publishing your work will be very valuable later on.

Stage 3: Write up of Thesis

The next key stage of a PhD is writing a doctoral thesis , which typically takes from anywhere between three months to one year. A thesis is a substantial body of work that describes the work and outcomes of the research over the previous two to three years. It should tell a detailed story of the PhD project – focusing on:

• The motivations for the research questions identified from the literature review.
• The methodologies used, results obtained, and a comprehensive analysis and discussion of the findings.
• A detailed discussion of the key findings with an emphasis on the original contributions made to your field of research and how this has been impactful.

There is no universal rule for the length of a PhD thesis, but general guidelines set the word count between 80,000 to 100,000 words.

For your thesis to be successful, it needs to adequately defend your argument and provide a unique or increased insight into your field that was not previously available.

Stage 4: Attending the Viva

A viva voce , most commonly referred to as just a ‘ viva ‘, is an interview-style examination where the PhD student is required to engage in a critical appraisal of their work and defend their thesis against at least two examiners. The examiners will ask questions to check the PhD student has an in-depth understanding of the ideas and theories proposed in their thesis, and whether they have developed the research skills that would be expected of them.

The viva is one of the final steps in achieving a PhD, and typically lasts at least two hours, but this duration can vary depending on the examiners, the university and the PhD project itself.

Once you have done the viva – you’re on the home stretch. You will typically be asked to make some amendments to your thesis based on the examiner’s feedback. You are then ready to submit your final thesis for either:

• PhD – If you pass the requirements you will be awarded a PhD degree (most common outcome),
• MPhil – If you failed to meet requirements for a PhD, you may be downgraded to an MPhil degree (uncommon outcome),
• Fail – No award is given, typically for cases of plagiarism (extremely uncommon outcome).

What Is It Like to Undertake a PhD?

We’re often asked what it is like to undertake a PhD study. Unfortunately, this isn’t a simple answer to this question as every research project is different.

To help give insight into the life of a PhD student, we’ve interviewed PhD students at various stages of their programmes and put together a series of PhD Student Interviews . Check out the link to find out what a PhD is like and what advice they have to offer you.

What Are the Benefits of A PhD?

A PhD is the highest globally recognised postgraduate degree that higher education institutions can award. The degree, which is awarded to candidates who demonstrate original and independent research in a particular field of study, is not only invaluable in itself, but sets you up with invaluable skills and traits.

Career Opportunities

First, a PhD prepares you for a career in academia if you wish to continue in this area. This takes form as a career in the Higher Education sector, typically as a lecturer working their way to becoming a professor leading research on the subject you’ve studied and trained in.

Second, a PhD also enables the opportunity for landing a job in a research & development role outside of the academic environment. Examples of this include laboratory work for a private or third sector company, a governmental role and research for commercial and industrial applications.

Transferable Skills

Finally, in possessing a PhD degree, you can show to employers that you have vital skills that make you an asset to any company. Three examples of the transferable skills that you gain through a PhD are effective communication, time management, and report writing.

• Communication – presenting your work in written and oral forms using journal papers and podium presentations, shows your ability to share complex ideas effectively and to those with less background knowledge than you. Communication is key in the professional environment, regardless of the job.
• Time management – The ability to prioritise and organise tasks is a tremendous asset in the professional industry. A PhD holder can use their qualification to demonstrate that they are able to manage their time, arrange and follow a plan, and stick to deadlines.
• Report writing – Condensing three years of work into a thesis demonstrates your ability to filter through massive amounts of information, identify the key points, and get these points across to the reader. The ability to ‘cut out the waffle’ or ‘get to the point’ is a huge asset in the professional industry.

Aside from the above, you also get to refer to yourself as a Doctor and add fancy initials after your name!

What Can I Do After a PhD?

One of the most desirable postdoctoral fields is working within independent Research and Development (R&D) labs and new emerging companies. Both industries, especially R&D labs, have dedicated groups of PhD graduates who lead research activities, design new products and take part in crucial strategic meetings. Not only is this a stimulating line of work, but the average salaries in R&D labs and emerging start-ups are lucrative. In comparison, an undergraduate with five years of experience within their given field will, on average, likely earn less than a new PhD graduate taking on a R&D position.

It’s a common misunderstanding that PhDs only opens the door for an academic career such as university lecturers and training providers. Although obtaining a PhD opens these doors, the opportunities extend far beyond educational roles. In fact, recent data from the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) indicates only 23% of PhD graduates take a position in educational roles . This low percentage is primarily because PhD graduates have a wide range of skills that make them suitable for a broad spectrum of roles. This is being seen first hand by the increasing number of PhD graduates who are entering alternative roles such as research, writing, law and investment banking.

How Do I Find a PhD?

We appreciate that finding a PhD programme to undertake can be a relatively daunting process. According to Higher Education Student Statistics , over 22,000 PhDs were awarded in 2016/17 within the United Kingdom alone. Clearly there are a huge number of PhD programmes available. This can sometimes be confusing for prospective doctorates, particularly when different programmes are advertised in different places. Often, it is difficult to know where to look or where to even start. We’ve put together a list of useful sources to find the latest PhD programmes:

• A great place to start is with our comprehensive and up-to-date database of available PhD positions .
• Assuming you are still at university, speak to an existing PhD supervisor within your department.
• Attend as many postgraduate open days as you can. Whilst there, speak to current PhD students and career advisors to get an awareness of what PhDs are on offer.
• Visit the postgraduate section of university websites and the PhD Research Council section of the UKRI website.

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A research degree is an advanced study program that allows you to deeply explore a topic that interests you.

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Research degree candidates are driven by naturally inquiring minds, and have a passion to solve problems and advance humanity.

You’ll conduct unique research, and produce new knowledge and expertise that is innovative, relevant, and enlightened.

Research degrees equip you with the transferable skills and attributes for diverse roles in industry, government and business, as well as in research and academic organisations.

Studying in Tasmania gives you unrivalled access to nature, industry and passionate people. The research you do will be inspired by the challenges of our unique island and have global relevance.

Which means you’ll become a sought-after expert in your field.

Entry requirements

Higher Degree by Research (HDR) programs at the University of Tasmania include:

A PhD is an advanced academic qualification and is often considered a requirement for the majority of academic and research positions in a wide range of fields and industries. The aim of the PhD is to foster the development of independent research skills. These skills include the capacity to formulate a significant problem, to develop mastery of appropriate conceptual and methodological skills to pursue investigation, and to relate the research to a broader framework of knowledge in a relevant disciplinary area.

Duration: PhD candidature runs for a minimum duration of two years and a maximum of four years full-time (or part-time equivalent).

Examination: Candidates enrolled in a Higher Degree by Research must submit a thesis for examination in fulfilment of the award for which they are enrolled. Students are required to produce a thesis of no more than 100,000 words (Exegesis = 20,000-50,000), with the research representing a significant new contribution to the discipline.

Admission: In accordance with the Research Training Ordinance (PDF 330.8 KB) , the Dean may admit to candidature for a Doctor of Philosophy a person who has been awarded a degree from a Recognised Tertiary Institution as being in the appropriate discipline and equivalent to:

• A Bachelor Honours degree of at least second class upper standard with a Minimum Research Component
• A Masters of Research Degree with a Minimum Research Component
• A Masters Degree (Coursework) with a Minimum Research Component

As per Schedule A: Minimum course entry requirements of the HDR Admission, Selection and Enrolment Procedure (PDF 278.2 KB) , qualifying degrees must have been awarded within a 10-year period prior to the date of application for admission to Higher Degree by Research candidature.

Where a coursework masters' degree is considered as the basis for admission, the research project or thesis must be between 10,000 to 20,000 words and equate to a minimum 25 per cent research component of the entire degree.

Where any of the above standard admission requirements are not met, an application will be considered as part of an application via the alternative entry pathway process (see Pathways to a Research Degree below).

An MRes is an internationally recognised postgraduate research degree that involves undertaking a significant research project. MRes programs aim to train students in analysing their thesis topic at an advanced level; research methodology and techniques; and the application of such methodology by conducting a specified program of research under appropriate supervision. Many MRes students choose to continue with their research in order to obtain a PhD.

Duration: MRes candidature runs for a minimum duration of one year and a maximum of two years full-time (or part-time equivalent).

Examination: The degree of Master of Research is awarded on the basis of a thesis prepared under supervision that presents the results of original research. The thesis should demonstrate the Candidate's knowledge of the research topic and the discipline/s it embraces, as judged by independent experts applying accepted contemporary international standards. Students are required to produce a thesis of no more than 50,000 words (exegesis = 10,000-20,000), that demonstrates their capacity for critical analysis and application of specialist knowledge.

Admission: In accordance with the  Research Training Ordinance (PDF 330.8 KB) , the Dean may admit to candidature for a Master of Research a person who has been awarded a degree from a Recognised Tertiary Institution as being in the appropriate discipline and equivalent to:

• A Bachelor Honours degree of at least second class lower standard with a Minimum Research Component
• A Masters degree (Coursework) with a Minimum Research Component

As per Schedule A: Minimum course entry requirements of the Admission, Selection and Enrolment Procedure (PDF 278.2 KB) , qualifying degrees must have been awarded within a 10-year period prior to the date of application for admission to Higher Degree by Research candidature.

A Professional Doctorate is a professional research qualification which has an equivalent status to a PhD. This degree is ideal for mid-career and senior managers who wish to integrate advanced research into their professional lives.

Duration: A Professional Doctorate is usually completed over three or four years, the minimum and maximum degree periods are as approved by Academic Senate.

Examination: Assessment involves coursework and a thesis of up to 80,000 words representing a significant contribution to your discipline of research.

Admission: In accordance with the  Research Training Ordinance (PDF 330.8 KB) , the Dean may admit to candidature for a Professional Doctorate a person who has been awarded a degree from a Recognised Tertiary Institution as being in the appropriate discipline and equivalent to:

Please also refer to the University of Tasmania Course and Unit Handbook for the applicable course.

As per Schedule B: English Language Proficiency Requirements of the Interim HDR  Admissions and Enrolment Procedure , an applicant must provide evidence of their English language proficiency in accordance with the requirements listed below at the time they submit their application. Results of an English language proficiency test must have been awarded within 2 years of application date.

Proof of English language ability may be demonstrated by providing official test scores for one of the following tests:

You are a citizen of and hold a passport from one of the following countries:

• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• United Kingdom

Evidence of ongoing residence and employment for a period of not less than 5 years within one of the following countries (in an occupation requiring proficient written and verbal communication in English):

• South Africa

Completion within 2 years of your application date of a Graduate Degree (equivalent to AQF Level 8 or higher) from a recognised tertiary institution, of at least one year duration, where the medium and language of instruction of the degree was entirely in English.

There are different paths you can take to start your journey in completing a Research Degree at UTAS.

The chief requirement is prior research experience in the form of an Honours or Master's Degree, or relevant professional experience and training.

Honours Degree

An Australian Honours Degree is the standard pathway for entry into a Research Degree, providing you with the experience and skills to take on advanced postgraduate research. An Honours Degree is a program of study which involves deeply investigating a research topic and writing a thesis, usually full-time over one year. Entry requirements for an Honours Degree vary by program. Most Honours students complete the program during an "Honours year", an additional year of study following completion of a Bachelor's Degree. Students can also complete Honours "on-course", where the Honours component is embedded in the Bachelor's Degree over four or five years.

Transferring from a Master of Research (MRes) to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

If you are currently enrolled in a Master of Research (MRes) at UTAS, it may be possible to transfer to a PhD. To apply to transfer to a PhD, you must have completed no more than 75% of your MRes at UTAS and have demonstrated strong academic progress. Many MRes candidates choose to continue with their research in order to obtain a PhD.  MRes Candidates should discuss this pathway with their supervisory team and school of enrolment.

Postgraduate Coursework

A Master by Coursework Degree provides another entry-point to a Research Degree. To be accepted for a Research Degree, your Master Degree must contain a research component of at least 25%.

Relevant Experience

Your professional experience may also satisfy the admission requirements for undertaking a Research Degree at UTAS. For example, working as a research assistant and publishing research outcomes are strong evidence of relevant research experience. You may have a passion for research in a field where you can already demonstrate expertise. We value professional work experience in our Research Degree candidates and also consider experience such as leading large projects and implementing your research into organisational change.  With your application, please submit supporting documentation that addresses your competency in the following skill areas:

• Conceptual and theoretical understanding/knowledge of the field;
• Research design, data collection and data management skills/ability to undertake research;
• Analytical and interpretative skills (e.g. data analysis, critical analysis, problem solving); and
• Communication skills

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Taught vs research masters: What's the difference and which should I choose?

Table of Contents

1. taught masters meaning, 2. popular taught master courses, 1. research masters meaning, 2. popular research master courses, 1. curriculum and structure, 2. coursework, 3. duration, 3. specialisation, 4. supervision, 5. employability, taught vs research masters: which should you choose, 1. career aspirations, 2. interest in research, 3. program structure, 4. academic background, 5. time commitment, postgraduate taught vs research, can i do a phd after taking a taught masters, taught vs research masters: fee difference, frequently asked questions.

So you’ve decided you want to do a masters degree and you have a rough idea of which courses you like the sound of and where you might want to study. So all that’s left to do now is apply, right?

Not quite. There’s actually one more decision to make, that you might not even have known about in the first place: would you rather study a taught or research masters?

Both course types involve a high level of academic study and independent work . However, a taught course offers a more familiar structure and a wider variety of subjects. It also offers more assessment modules than a research-based course, which puts more focus on in-depth research and writing. Not sure which option to choose? We’ve got you covered. Without further ado, here are the difference between taught and research masters, so you can choose the course that’s best for you.

Also Read: Canada vs USA for masters

What is a taught master's degree?

As the name suggests, the majority of a taught masters course revolves around a series of modules, each with seminars, lectures and assignments or exams.

Most taught masters degrees will also generally require you to complete a final dissertation or major research project. In other words, a masters taught degree is like a continuation of an undergraduate degree.

Also Read: 6 Masters degrees in Engineering Management that will change your life

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science (MSc)
• Master of Arts (MA)
• Master of Engineering (MEng)
• Master of Public Health (MPH)

What is a research masters degree?

A research masters is very different, both in terms of course content and structure. Rather than taking a variety of modules, each with a mixture of exams and coursework, the progression of a research masters is more fluid. You may start the course with an introductory module or set of classes focusing on developing your research and writing skills, but after that, you’ll likely have little to no timetabled hours. Instead, you will be spending your time working independently on one or more extended research projects.

• Master of Research (MRes)
• Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

Taught vs research masters

Taught masters and research masters are two distinct types of masters programs that offer different approaches to education and learning. Here are the main difference between taught and research masters:

Taught masters are structured programs with a predetermined curriculum. Students take a set of modules or courses covering specific subject areas relevant to their field of study. These programs are more structured and organised, with clear learning outcomes. Unlike taught masters, research masters offer more flexibility in terms of the curriculum. Students have more freedom to design their research project within the scope of their field of study.

The focus of taught masters is on coursework, where students attend lectures, seminars, and workshops. They are assessed through exams, assignments, projects, and sometimes a dissertation or thesis. The centrepiece of a research master's program is the research project or thesis. Students are required to conduct independent research under the guidance of a supervisor or mentor.

Taught masters typically last one to two years , depending on the country and the program's requirements. Research masters may take longer to complete than Taught Masters due to the in-depth research and analysis involved.

Students often choose a specialisation within the field, but their coursework is determined by the university or department. Research masters are more research-oriented, with a significant emphasis on original research and exploration of a particular subject area.

While students have access to academic staff for guidance and support, they generally have less individualised supervision than in research-focused programs. Research masters offer more individualised supervision and mentorship as students work closely with their research advisors throughout the process.

Taught masters are generally designed to enhance employability by providing students with practical skills and knowledge relevant to their chosen career path. Research masters are often considered a pathway to a Ph.D. or further research-based careers in academia or industry.

Here's a table summarising the key difference between taught and research masters:

When it comes to deciding between a taught or research masters, you should first ask yourself what motivates you to study and what you’ve enjoyed most about your undergraduate degree. If your favourite part of your degree was researching and writing a dissertation, and you want to further develop your academic skills and potentially go on to do a PhD then it’s worth looking into research masters courses. But if you have a specific career goal outside of academia, a taught masters will allow you to gain a broader range of skills and experience to enhance your CV.

One final consideration should be what are you best at?

For example, if you struggle with essays but tend to do well in exams and presentations, then a taught masters with a wider variety of assessment modes might be a better fit for you.

At the end of the day, regardless of which option you choose, studying for a master’s degree is an invaluable experience and either course is sure to open a lot of doors for you further down the line.

Thinking about studying your taught or research masters course abroad? Let us help you find your perfect course and university today!

Should I study a taught or research Masters?

Deciding between a taught or research master's program depends on your academic and career goals, as well as your personal preferences and strengths. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Consider your career goals and the type of role you wish to pursue after completing your master's degree. If you aim to work in a profession that values specialised knowledge and practical skills, a taught master's program may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you are interested in a career in research, academia, or a field that requires advanced research capabilities, a research master's program may be a better fit.

Reflect on your interest in research. Are you passionate about conducting independent research and contributing to the knowledge in your field? If research excites you and you enjoy the process of inquiry, a research master's program could be an excellent choice.

Compare the structure and content of both types of programs. Taught master's programs typically involve a mix of lectures, seminars, and coursework, while research master's programs focus on a more significant research project. Assess which learning approach aligns better with your preferred style of study.

Consider your academic background and strengths. Research master's programs often require a strong academic record and a solid foundation in the chosen field of study, as the emphasis is on conducting original research. If your academic strengths lie in coursework and exams, a taught master's program may suit you better.

Evaluate the time commitment required for each type of program. Research master's degrees tend to be longer and more intense, as they involve substantial research and writing. Taught master's programs are usually shorter and may be more suitable if you wish to enter the job market sooner.

Take the time to research different programs, talk to current students and faculty members, and seek advice from academic advisors to make an informed choice that aligns with your aspirations.

Postgraduate education in the United Kingdom offers two main pathways

• Postgraduate research programs
• Postgraduate taught programs

Postgraduate research programs focus on independent and original research, where students delve deep into a specific research question or topic within their chosen field. They work closely with a research supervisor and complete a research thesis or dissertation to contribute new knowledge to their discipline. These programs are suitable for individuals pursuing careers in academia or research.

On the other hand, postgraduate taught programs emphasise structured classroom-based learning. Students follow a set curriculum, attending lectures, seminars, and practical sessions to gain specialised knowledge and practical skills. Assessment in these programs involves coursework, exams, and sometimes a dissertation or research project.

The choice between postgraduate research vs taught depends on individual interests and career aspirations. If you have a passion for conducting independent research and want to contribute to your field, a postgraduate research program might be the right fit. However, if you seek specialised skills and industry-focused expertise, a postgraduate taught program may be more suitable.

Many students wonder if they can pursue a Ph.D. after completing a taught master's degree. The answer is yes, it is indeed possible. Universities and research institutions often welcome students who have successfully completed a taught master's program and wish to continue their academic journey by undertaking a Ph.D. program.

Completing a taught master's degree can serve as a stepping stone toward a research-based Ph.D. program. While some additional effort may be required to strengthen your research profile, many students successfully make the transition and go on to make significant contributions in their chosen fields of study.

In general, Taught Masters programs tend to be more structured and may involve a higher number of taught modules or courses, which can lead to higher tuition fees. These programs often focus on providing practical skills and knowledge that are directly applicable to the job market, and the additional resources required for delivering coursework can contribute to higher fees.

On the other hand, while the fees for Research Masters can still be substantial, they might be slightly lower than Taught Masters in some cases. This is because Research Masters programs often have fewer taught modules, and students spend a significant portion of their time conducting research, which may require fewer resources compared to a more structured coursework-based program.

Which degree is right for me in the UK?

If you prefer a structured and specialised curriculum with classroom-based learning, a taught Masters may be suitable. On the other hand, if you have a strong interest in conducting independent research and contributing to your field, a research Masters could be a better fit.

Taught vs Research, which is better?

The choice between taught vs research Masters depends on your academic and career objectives. A taught Masters offers a structured curriculum with specific subject knowledge, while a research Masters focuses on independent research and academic inquiry.

What is the difference between taught and research masters?

The main difference between taught and research masters lies in their core focus. A taught Masters emphasises classroom-based learning, lectures, and assessments, providing specialised subject knowledge and skills. In contrast, a research Masters centres around conducting independent research, contributing to the existing knowledge in a field, and developing strong research skills.

Are Masters by research better?

A Masters by research offers an opportunity to engage in independent and in-depth research, making it ideal for students pursuing a career in academia or research-oriented professions. However, a taught Masters may suit those seeking specialised skills and industry-focused expertise. The decision should align with your aspirations and preferred learning style.

Why are research Masters cheaper?

Research Masters programs are often cheaper than taught Masters because they require less institutional resources.

Is a Masters by research a full Masters?

Yes, a Masters by research is considered a full Masters degree. It is a postgraduate qualification that requires the completion of a research project, dissertation, or thesis. Know someone considering postgraduate studies? Share the insights in our 'Taught vs Research Masters' article with them.

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College Info

In many lists of colleges, research universities are listed or ranked separately from other schools that focus exclusively on the undergraduate experience, like liberal arts colleges. Why? What's the point?

In this article, I’ll list the main characteristics of research universities, give you some information about what life is like at a few different schools, and help you decide whether a research university is the right choice for you.

What Is a Research University?

As you may have guessed from the name, research universities are universities where the main focus is on the research of professors and graduate students.   These universities may be less oriented towards undergraduate teaching, but they can still provide excellent experiences for students who are willing and able to seek out the resources they offer.

Here are some of the main characteristics of research universities:  

More Interaction with Graduate Students

Since all research universities have graduate programs associated with them, you’ll have more opportunities to interact with grad students as an undergraduate.  This may give you insight into your future or lead to collaboration on research projects conducted by more advanced students.  

State-of-the-Art Research Facilities

The main mission of a research university is to produce new and exciting research, and to do that it needs to provide the best equipment to its students and professors.  This is a big plus for students focused on the hard sciences because large research universities will usually have access to the latest technology.    

Wide Variety of Majors 

Research universities, due to their size and diversity, offer a wide range of majors to students.  Although it’s sometimes more difficult to change your major or create your own major at these universities due to a large bureaucracy, you’ll have lot of choice in the first place.  

Larger Class Sizes with Less Individual Attention

For most research universities, large class sizes, particularly at the introductory level, are common.  You may find yourself in lecture halls with more than 100 students, which means less attention and personalized feedback.

However, most of these large classes are split off into discussion sections taught by graduate students, so you'll get a chance to interact with other students and TAs.  Also, a s you take more advanced classes, class sizes will shrink.  Many of these universities also offer honors programs to qualified students where the environment is more like that of a small college.  

Distinguished Faculty

Research universities attract well-known faculty because of the resources and opportunities they offer.  You'll have the chance to network with very important people in fields that interest you. You may even be able to work side by side with high profile researchers on lab projects and become a coauthor on published research.   

International Reputation

Research universities have better reputations on a global scale than smaller teaching colleges. Since big discoveries and scientific breakthroughs often take place at research universities, they get more recognition abroad than other colleges that might have excellent undergraduate programs but less robust research capabilities.

Advantages for Future Graduate Students

Spending four years as an undergraduate at a research university can give you a leg up in the competition for graduate school admissions.  You can get letters of recommendation from top researchers in your field that will encourage other universities to accept you based on reputation. 

What Is the Student Experience Like?

The learning environment at a research university will be different from  the learning environment at a small college in most cases.  Here are a few examples of research universities along with some details on what the student experience is like. All student quotes are from the  Fiske Guide to Colleges 2015 :

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Learning at MIT is based on research and hands-on experimentation.  Students in electrical engineering and computer science have the option of pursuing a five-year degree , meaning they obtain a masters upon completion of their studies. One student says, “The average MIT student can be characterized as having a passion and singular drive for what they really want in life.” 

The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program facilitates student/faculty research projects and allows students to earn course credit and stipends for research. There are nine Nobel laureates on the MIT faculty at present.

MIT is home to many, many different research facilities. Currently under construction is a $350 million facility called MIT.nano, which will provide resources for students to do research in the exciting new field of nanotechnology. 

University of Colorado - Boulder

At UC Boulder, the 45,000 square foot Discovery Learning Center has 12 labs where engineering students can work on different technological challenges with high-tech capabilities and video conferencing.  A student says that “professors and graduate student instructors alike have taken a keen interest in students’ progress, success, and learning, making themselves available to students as a valuable resource for extra assistance with class concepts and assignments.” 

Programs such as the Special Undergraduate Enrichment Program and Presidents Leadership Class give high-performing students the ability to stand out from the crowd.  Students say that “It’s such a large, broad campus that just about any sort of student can be found” and  “every student, teacher, and department always has something new and exciting going on. It would be very hard to get bored here.”

Washington University in St. Louis

Students say that Washington University in St. Louis is “a place to grow and learn while having an unbelievably fun time.”  Undergraduates enroll in one of five schools: arts and sciences, architecture, art, business, or engineering , and the University also accommodates interdisciplinary majors and double majors.  

The medical school runs a faculty exchange program with the undergraduate biology department , giving biology majors the opportunity to conduct advanced lab research.  A program called the University Scholars Program allows students to apply for both undergraduate and graduate admission before entering college.

Unlike some research universities, Washington University in St. Louis gives students the chance to have one on one mentoring relationships with impressive faculty members.   According to one student, “one of my classes was a 150-person lecture class, and another was a 12-person seminar...despite these disparate class sizes, I was on a first-name basis with both of the professors.”

Should You Consider a Research University?

You may still be unsure about whether a research university is the right choice for you.  If these characteristics apply to you, you should consider research universities as options in your college search:

You Plan to Go to Grad School

As mentioned above, many research universities have programs that will put you on track for a strong graduate school application or even provide extended five-year programs that allow you to graduate with a masters.  These schools offer a more streamlined path to graduate school considering their reputable faculty and research opportunities. 

You’re Interested in the Sciences

The advanced facilities and resources at research universities will make the most difference to students who are interested in the sciences. Th e most cutting-edge scientific discoveries are occurring at these universities , so you'll have many opportunities to meet people who are leaders in their fields (and even collaborate with them on projects).

Libraries at research universities are excellent, but at most colleges you'll be able to get the resources you’re looking for in the humanities. If you’re interested in science, however, other colleges might not give you access to the same high tech equipment available at research universities. 

You Want to Do Research as an Undergraduate 

It should come as no surprise to you that research universities are the best places to do research!   This goes hand in hand with a desire to continue your education past an undergraduate degree.  If you plan on going on to grad school (particularly in the sciences), you will almost certainly be expected to do research as an undergraduate for your thesis and other projects. 

If you fit these characteristics, a research university may be the right choice for you, but it’s not necessarily the only good choice.  There are many small colleges that will afford you similar opportunities on a slightly smaller scale and may give you more one-on-one time with professors and a stronger advising system.  Students sometimes have to be very independent at research universities since the focus is not explicitly on undergraduate teaching.  However, these schools offer great opportunities to gather hands-on experience in the subject areas that interest you and connect with the brightest minds in any field.

What's Next?

Still trying to decide what type of college you want to attend? One factor you might consider besides a school's research capabilities is its status as a public or private institution. Read this article to find out which is a better fit for you.

If you're thinking of attending a research university, you may be looking at schools that are far from your home town. Learn more about the pros and cons of going to school out of state.

Not sure whether a large university is the right choice for you? Take a look at this article to see whether a big or small college will be a better fit for you.

Samantha is a blog content writer for PrepScholar. Her goal is to help students adopt a less stressful view of standardized testing and other academic challenges through her articles. Samantha is also passionate about art and graduated with honors from Dartmouth College as a Studio Art major in 2014. In high school, she earned a 2400 on the SAT, 5's on all seven of her AP tests, and was named a National Merit Scholar.

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What is the difference between a postgraduate taught master’s and a postgraduate research master’s?

Pgce, mres, ma, msc or phd if you’re considering postgraduate study, use this guide to learn the difference between the kinds of postgraduate degrees on offer.

Richard Carruthers

Postgraduate courses come in many formats, ranging from vocational diplomas and certificates through to master’s and doctoral qualifications.

The two most common categories of postgraduate study are postgraduate taught (PGT) courses and postgraduate research (PGR) courses.

As you shop around potential postgraduate courses, you may also come across the PGCE, the LLM, the MRes, the MPhil and the PhD.

But what is the difference between all these acronyms?

Below is a guide explaining the differences between all the postgraduate degrees on offer, including how the application process varies between them.

Postgraduate taught (PGT) courses

Postgraduate taught courses are sometimes called level 7 qualifications and are one of the most common kinds of master’s degrees. When people refer to master’s courses, they usually mean a postgraduate taught course.

These courses are typically one year in duration if studied full-time, or two years if studying part-time.

The course will usually comprise several months of taught classes, much like undergraduate study, followed by an intensive independent research project for the final few months.

These courses have highly specialised content, making them great launchpads for careers where specialist knowledge is required. They are also often used as a stepping stone to more advanced research degrees.

What’s the difference between an MSc and an MA?

Postgraduate taught courses will usually lead to either an MSc or an MA qualification, depending on the subject you choose.

An MSc stands for a “master of science” and will focus on advancing a particular aspect of scientific research across the sciences, engineering, mathematics or a similar field that involves logic, scientific research or numbers.

An MA refers to a “master of arts”, and covers postgraduate taught degrees in the arts and humanities, such as literature, languages, history, cultural studies and some social sciences.

Applying for a postgraduate taught course

To apply for a postgraduate taught course, you will normally be asked to provide transcripts showing your academic performance on your undergraduate degree, a personal statement and a CV.

Your CV should focus on your educational achievements and interests and discuss any project work that shows you have the technical and academic skills needed to be a successful and independent postgraduate student.

Your personal statement can be tackled in a similar way to a cover letter, where you introduce yourself and convey your interest, enthusiasm and motivation to study the subject. It is also advisable to tailor your statement to each course you apply for and to explain your interest in some of the modules offered by that specific course.

It can also be beneficial to demonstrate some thought around where the course will lead you in the future, whether that’s into a new career or towards further study.

With postgraduate taught courses, you often won’t have to submit a research proposal for your research project as part of your application, as the taught elements of the course are meant to help inform your research proposal.

However, some postgraduate master’s courses may ask for you to submit a research proposal or at least have an idea of the topic you want to do your master’s dissertation on, even if this changes later.

Applying to master’s courses is generally done through a decentralised system, meaning you apply individually to each course and university. Each institution will set different entrance and application requirements. Check the exact requirements your course is looking for, and get in touch with the institution’s postgraduate admissions office with any questions.

What are MRes and MPhil degrees?

The MPhil stands for “master of philosophy”. The MRes course option, which is relatively new but has grown in popularity in recent years, stands for a “master of research”.

Much like postgraduate taught courses, both the MPhil and the MRes are technically classified as level 7 qualifications, and typically take one year to complete.

The main difference between an MRes or MPhil and a postgraduate taught course is that MRes and MPhil courses place much more focus on individual research, with as much as 60 per cent to 100 per cent of either degree consisting of a personal research project.

Given the heavy research focus, MRes and MPhil courses tend to contain fewer taught classes, but you will usually receive training in research techniques. As a result of the research focus, an MRes or an MPhil may help prepare a student for a doctoral programme (PGR) or a career that requires specific research skills and techniques.

Applying for an MRes or MPhil course is very similar to applying for a postgraduate taught course, but you may be asked to submit a research proposal as part of your application, so it’s important to have an idea of the kind of research project you would like to pursue.

Doctorate courses

Postgraduate research (PGR) courses are sometimes called level 8 qualifications and usually refer to doctorate courses.

These courses take about three to four years of full-time study to complete, but the exact duration of a doctorate course depends on whether you get involved in teaching, how long your research takes to complete and how long it takes you to write your doctorate thesis.

Successful PhD candidates are awarded doctoral qualifications such as doctor of philosophy (PhD) or doctor of engineering (EngD), depending on their field of research.

Research is the core component of a PhD programme, and you will be expected to produce original work on a specific subject topic, usually in the form of a thesis.

Doctorate qualifications are often a prerequisite for a career as a university academic, researcher or scientist in industry.

Applying for a doctorate (PhD) programme

To apply for a doctorate degree, you’ll need to submit a personal statement and a CV, both providing evidence of your academic experiences and passion for the subject.

Some PhD programmes will expect you to have already completed a postgraduate taught programme, but this isn’t always essential.

For a PhD, you may also be asked to submit a detailed research proposal outlining a specific research question you would like to address, the subject area you will work in, and the approach you would take to solving this.

Your proposal should demonstrate your current knowledge and discuss how your research idea could develop or challenge existing knowledge. You should also mention the potential significance of your research and why it would be a useful contribution to your chosen field.

Usually, you will be expected to apply individually to each PhD programme you’re interested in. Places will usually be dependent on your academic achievements, but also on the funding available in your chosen university department and whether the university can provide an appropriate supervisor.

If you’re considering applying for a PhD, it may be worth contacting academics individually to discuss whether they’d be interested in supervising you and asking about any funding opportunities.

Other postgraduate courses

Aside from the categories discussed above, there are many other classifications of master’s degrees, including postgraduate diplomas and certificates.

Often these lead to a vocational qualification that is used to gain entry to a specific profession.

Examples include the postgraduate certificate of education (PGCE), which leads to a career in teaching, the graduate diploma in law (GDL) or master of law (LLM), which opens the door to the legal professions, or the master of business administration (MBA), which is a common choice for business professionals looking to gain entry to C-suite positions.

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• 1.1 Etymology
• 1.2 Pronunciation
• 1.3.1 Synonyms
• 1.3.2 Hyponyms
• 1.3.3 Derived terms
• 1.3.4 Related terms
• 1.3.5 Translations
• 1.4.1 Translations
• 1.5 References
• 1.6 Anagrams
• 2.1 Etymology
• 2.2 Pronunciation
• 2.3.1 Usage notes
• 2.3.2 Synonyms
• 3.1 Etymology
• 3.2.1 Declension
• 3.2.2 Related terms
• 3.3 See also
• 3.4 References

English [ edit ]

Etymology [ edit ].

Early Modern French rechercher ( “ to examine closely ” ) , from Old French recerchier ( “ to seek, to look for ” ) , by surface analysis , re- +‎ search .

Pronunciation [ edit ]

• ( Received Pronunciation ) IPA ( key ) : ( traditional ) /ɹɪˈsɜːt͡ʃ/ , ( newer ) /ˈɹiː.sɜːt͡ʃ/
• Rhymes: -ɜː(ɹ)tʃ

Noun [ edit ]

research ( countable and uncountable , plural researches )

• 2012 January, Philip E. Mirowski, “Harms to Health from the Pursuit of Profits”, in American Scientist ‎ [1] , volume 100 , number 1, archived from the original on 4 April 2012 , page 87 : In an era when political leaders promise deliverance from decline through America’s purported preeminence in scientific research , the news that science is in deep trouble in the United States has been as unwelcome as a diagnosis of leukemia following the loss of health insurance.
• 1849–1861 , Thomas Babington Macaulay , chapter 1, in The History of England from the Accession of James the Second , volumes (please specify |volume=I to V) , London: Longman, Brown, Green, and Longmans , →OCLC : The dearest interests of parties have frequently been staked on the results of the researches of antiquaries.
• 1747 , The Scots magazine , volume 9, page 567 : The first step I took in this so necessary a research , was to examine the motives, the justice, the necessity and expediency of the revolution [ … ]
• 1883 December, “Zoology. A. General, including Embryology and Histology of the Vertebrata. Development of Muscle-fibres and their Union with Nerves”, in Journal of the Royal Microscopical Society , volume 3, number 6, page 821 : Although very numerous researches have been made on the differentiation of striped muscles, and on the termination of their motor nerve-fibres, yet the multifarious observations have often been too incomplete to lead to any but conflicting and unsatisfactory theories.

Synonyms [ edit ]

• investigation
• exploration
• examination

Hyponyms [ edit ]

• action research
• advocacy research
• basic research
• bioresearch
• empirical research
• historical research
• marketing research
• market research
• operational research
• operations research
• oppo research
• opposition research
• primary research
• qualitative research
• quantitative research
• scientific research
• secondary research
• space research
• structural research
• unobtrusive research

Derived terms [ edit ]

• antiresearch
• bioresearcher
• consumer research
• coresearcher
• customer research
• dual-use research of concern
• eco-research
• gain-of-function research
• nonresearch
• nonresearched
• nonresearcher
• nonresearching
• overresearched
• proresearch
• researchability
• researchable
• research assistant
• research chemical
• researchful
• researchist
• research professor
• underresearched
• unresearchability
• unresearchable
• unresearched

Related terms [ edit ]

• research octane number
• research paper

Translations [ edit ]

Verb [ edit ].

research ( third-person singular simple present researches , present participle researching , simple past and past participle researched )

• ( transitive ) To search or examine with continued care; to seek diligently.
• ( intransitive ) To make an extensive investigation into.
• ( transitive ) To search again.

References [ edit ]

• “research”, in The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language , 4th edition, Boston, Mass.: Houghton Mifflin , 2000 , →ISBN .
• “ research ”, in Dictionary.com Unabridged , Dictionary.com, LLC , 1995–present.
• " research " in WordNet 2.0 , Princeton University, 2003.

Anagrams [ edit ]

• reachers , searcher

Dutch [ edit ]

From English research , from early Modern French rechercher ( “ to examine closely ” ) , from Old French recerchier ( “ to seek, to look for ” ) . Forms a doublet with Dutch recherche , which is a direct borrowing from French.

research   f ( uncountable , diminutive researchje   n )

Usage notes [ edit ]

The plural is very rare or non-existent.

• onderzoek , speurwerk , vorsing , navorsing

Swedish [ edit ]

Unadapted borrowing from English research . First attested in the 1960s. [1]

research   c ( uncountable )

• searching in archives for background information related to someone or something specific (often for newspapers, radio, or TV).

Declension [ edit ]

• researcha ( “ perform archival research ” )
• researcher ( “ archival researcher ” )

See also [ edit ]

• efterforska ( “ investigate; research ” )
• forska ( “ research ” )
• ^ research in Svensk ordbok ( SO )
• research in Svenska Akademiens ordlista ( SAOL )

• English terms derived from French
• English terms derived from Old French
• English terms prefixed with re-
• English 2-syllable words
• English terms with IPA pronunciation
• English terms with audio links
• Rhymes:English/ɜː(ɹ)tʃ
• Rhymes:English/ɜː(ɹ)tʃ/2 syllables
• English lemmas
• English nouns
• English uncountable nouns
• English countable nouns
• English terms with quotations
• English dated terms
• English verbs
• English transitive verbs
• English intransitive verbs
• English heteronyms
• Dutch terms derived from English
• Dutch terms derived from French
• Dutch terms derived from Old French
• Dutch terms with audio links
• Dutch lemmas
• Dutch nouns
• Dutch uncountable nouns
• Dutch feminine nouns
• Swedish terms borrowed from English
• Swedish unadapted borrowings from English
• Swedish terms derived from English
• Swedish lemmas
• Swedish nouns
• Swedish common-gender nouns
• Swedish uncountable nouns
• English undefined derivations
• English entries with language name categories using raw markup
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[ ri- surch , ree -surch ]

recent research in medicine.

Synonyms: study , scrutiny

• a particular instance or piece of research.

verb (used without object)

• to make researches; investigate carefully.

verb (used with object)

to research a matter thoroughly.

Synonyms: scrutinize , examine , inquire , study

/ ˈriːsɜːtʃ; rɪˈsɜːtʃ /

• systematic investigation to establish facts or principles or to collect information on a subject
• to carry out investigations into (a subject, problem, etc)

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Derived forms.

• reˈsearcher , noun
• reˈsearchable , adjective

Other Words From

• re·searcha·ble adjective
• re·searcher re·searchist noun
• prore·search adjective
• under·re·search verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of research 1

Synonym Study

Example sentences.

Have you tried to access the research that your tax dollars finance, almost all of which is kept behind a paywall?

Have a look at this telling research from Pew on blasphemy and apostasy laws around the world.

And Epstein continues to steer money toward universities to advance scientific research.

The research literature, too, asks these questions, and not without reason.

We also have a growing body of biological research showing that fathers, like mothers, are hard-wired to care for children.

We find by research that smoking was the most general mode of using tobacco in England when first introduced.

This class is composed frequently of persons of considerable learning, research and intelligence.

Speaking from recollection, it appears to be a work of some research; but I cannot say how far it is to be relied on.

Thomas Pope Blount died; an eminent English writer and a man of great learning and research.

That was long before invention became a research department full of engineers.

Related Words

• exploration
• investigation