MRes Ageing and Health

Program Overview

The MRes Ageing and Health program is a research-focused master's degree aimed at students who wish to develop an advanced understanding of the biological, social, and clinical aspects of ageing. The program is designed for those who are interested in pursuing careers in research, healthcare, or policy-making, specifically within the context of ageing. Students benefit from Newcastle University’s strong focus on interdisciplinary learning, collaborating with experts from the fields of medicine, public health, psychology, and social sciences. The program offers a blend of taught modules and research components, allowing students to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical research experience. By the end of the program, students are expected to conduct independent research in the ageing and health sector, culminating in a dissertation that reflects their ability to apply research methods to real-world challenges.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MRes Ageing and Health program is carefully designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the various factors influencing ageing. Core modules cover essential topics such as the biology of ageing, geriatric medicine, health and wellbeing in later life, and social care for older adults. Students are also introduced to research methodologies, which form the backbone of their dissertation work. These modules are complemented by elective options that allow students to explore specialized areas such as dementia care, ageing and chronic disease, public health interventions, and policy development. Practical skills in research design, data analysis, and academic writing are emphasized throughout the program, ensuring that graduates are prepared for research roles in both academic and applied settings. The research-focused nature of the program enables students to develop expertise in designing, conducting, and analyzing research in the context of ageing and health.

Research Focus: Newcastle University is a leader in the field of ageing and health research, with a significant emphasis on both basic and applied research aimed at improving the lives of older individuals. The MRes Ageing and Health program is deeply integrated with the university’s internationally recognized research centers, including the Institute for Ageing and Newcastle University’s Ageing Research Group. Research at Newcastle University focuses on several key themes, such as age-related diseases (including dementia and frailty), the impact of ageing on mental and physical health, and strategies for promoting healthy ageing. Students in the program benefit from close involvement in ongoing research projects, giving them the opportunity to work alongside leading researchers and contribute to advancements in the field. The university’s research collaborations with healthcare providers, governmental bodies, and charitable organizations ensure that students are exposed to the most current and impactful research findings.

Industry Engagement: The MRes Ageing and Health program at Newcastle University places a strong emphasis on industry and healthcare sector engagement. The university’s partnerships with hospitals, care organizations, and policy institutes provide students with opportunities to engage in real-world research projects and internships. Through these collaborations, students can gain hands-on experience working on live projects that aim to address the challenges faced by older populations. The program also invites guest speakers from leading organizations in healthcare, policy, and aging-related industries, offering students valuable networking opportunities and insights into the practical application of their research. Additionally, students can benefit from the university's links with health professionals and social care workers, ensuring that their research is relevant to current industry needs and challenges.

Global Perspective: The MRes Ageing and Health program at Newcastle University provides students with a global perspective on the issues associated with an ageing population. Given that ageing is a worldwide phenomenon with different cultural, social, and economic implications, students are encouraged to consider global research findings and solutions in their studies. The university has established international collaborations with institutions and organizations focused on ageing research, enabling students to access global case studies, data, and research methodologies. Furthermore, Newcastle University attracts students from diverse international backgrounds, creating a global learning environment where different perspectives on ageing and health are shared and discussed. This global approach prepares students to address ageing-related challenges in various cultural and geographical contexts, equipping them to work on international research projects and contribute to the global discourse on ageing.