MBA Master of Business Administration
The MBA program at Durham University is a full-time, intensive course aimed at developi...
MA Education (Research Methods)
Durham City
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
The MA in Education (Research Methods) at Durham University is an advanced program that equips students with the skills necessary to conduct high-quality educational research. This course is ideal for individuals who want to develop expertise in research methodologies, data analysis, and critical evaluation of educational policies and practices. The program is particularly suited for those aiming for careers in educational research, policy development, academia, and governmental organizations, as well as those considering a PhD in Education. Students will engage with contemporary debates in education while learning how to design and implement effective research projects.
Curriculum: The curriculum is carefully structured to provide a strong foundation in both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Core modules typically include Research Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Advanced Qualitative and Quantitative Methods, and Policy Evaluation in Education. These modules equip students with the technical skills necessary to conduct robust empirical research. Additionally, students have the flexibility to select elective modules that align with their interests, such as Educational Psychology, Curriculum Development, Comparative Education, and Digital Learning Technologies. The program concludes with a dissertation, where students conduct an independent research project under the supervision of expert faculty members.
Research Focus: Durham University is home to leading research centers in education, including the Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring (CEM) and the School of Education Research Group. The MA in Education (Research Methods) is closely aligned with these centers, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge research in educational assessment, policy impact, curriculum development, and learning analytics. Students are encouraged to participate in ongoing research projects and contribute to academic publications, gaining hands-on experience in real-world educational research. Research themes may include inclusive education, teacher training effectiveness, digital learning environments, and international education policies.
Industry Engagement: Durham University maintains strong connections with educational institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international research bodies. The MA in Education (Research Methods) provides students with opportunities to engage in collaborative research projects, policy evaluation initiatives, and consultancy work. The program frequently invites guest speakers from education ministries, research think tanks, and global education organizations, ensuring that students gain insights into the practical applications of educational research. Additionally, students can access internship and placement opportunities, allowing them to apply their research skills in educational consultancy, public policy, and academic research settings.
Global Perspective: Durham University promotes a global approach to educational research, integrating international case studies, cross-cultural educational comparisons, and global policy frameworks into the curriculum. The university collaborates with research institutions and educational organizations worldwide, providing students with opportunities to engage in international research collaborations, academic conferences, and exchange programs. Graduates of the program emerge with a comprehensive understanding of educational challenges on a global scale, making them well-prepared for careers in international education policy, comparative education research, and global development organizations.
Location
Durham City
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 24750
Postgraduate Entry Requirements:
- Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% to 70% or equivalent.
- English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92, with at least 23 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Durham University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to both domestic and international students.
Durham University Scholarships and Bursaries: These are awarded to both undergraduate and postgraduate students based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria such as subject area or country of origin.
Durham International Scholarships: These are awarded to exceptional international students who are pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the university. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition fees and is renewable for the duration of the course.
Government Scholarships: Durham University participates in a number of government scholarship programs, including the Chevening Scholarship and the Commonwealth Scholarship.
College-Specific Scholarships: Some colleges at Durham University offer scholarships and bursaries to their students, such as the Van Mildert College Music Scholarship and the St. Mary's College Travel Grant.
Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Durham University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be discipline-specific or focused on supporting students from specific regions or countries.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships: The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships are prestigious scholarships awarded to exceptional international students across all academic disciplines. These scholarships cover the full tuition fees and provide a generous living allowance for the duration of the program. The selection process is highly competitive and based on academic merit and leadership potential.
Graduates of the MA Education (Research Methods) program have diverse career opportunities in the education sector, research institutions, and policy-making organizations.
Educational Researcher: Graduates can work as educational researchers, conducting research studies to address educational challenges and inform educational policies.
Academic Coordinator: Graduates may pursue roles as academic coordinators, overseeing research projects and managing educational programs.
Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, providing evidence-based insights to shape educational policies and reforms.
Education Consultant: Graduates may work as education consultants, offering expertise in research methods and data analysis to educational institutions.
PhD Studies: Many graduates choose to pursue further studies and enroll in doctoral programs in education or related fields to deepen their research expertise.
