Health and Care - MRes

Keele University

Ideal for graduates interested in doctoral study or work as autonomous research staff and principal investigators, our MRes in Health and Care will equip you with a broad and complex understanding of the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of research. With access to Keele's Registered Clinical Trials Unit, Impact Accelerator Unit and strong links with the NHS, social care and third sector organisations, you will have the opportunity to apply your learning in real-world research environments whilst using big data.

Our interdisciplinary-focused MRes draws from various fields to equip you with a broad and complex understanding of health and care issues. The programme offers the flexibility to tailor individual student research projects and elective modules to your discipline and area of interest, in discussion with the course director and your proposed supervisor. It also provides those interested in creating a research portfolio to develop a thesis without the commitment of a full 3 or 4 year research project.

During the programme you will undertake research methods training, research practice experience and have access to a variety of optional modules in fields including but not limited to, sociology, economics, bioengineering to develop your multi and inter-disciplinary training.

As a research-focused course, the bulk of your study is devoted to your research project, which you will begin preparing in the first semester and work on throughout the course under the supervision of an expert in an agreed field of interest. The research project offers an exciting opportunity for you to demonstrate advanced knowledge and writing skills in your chosen research theme, preparing you to pursue a research career or further research study, such as a PhD.

In the taught component of the course, you will explore:

• A range of research methods including study design, statistics and qualitative analysis
• Literature review and critical appraisal to develop your own research inquiry and get your research questions right
• Research project management and governance
• Research ethics and applying for ethical approval
• The dissemination of research findings and writing for publications
• Patient and public involvement in research
• Equality, diversity and inclusion within research

Practice based learning may include:

• Practice modules that enable you to take part in research in your area of interest
• Opportunities for involvement in existing research studies, whilst being supported under the supervision and mentorship of a senior researcher
• Experience working in Keele's clinical trials unit and engagement in recruitment, informed consent, data collection and entry
• Completing an Independent Research Project under the supervision of a senior researcher.