MSc in Practice-based research

The MSc in practice-based research offers mid-career practitioners the opportunity to further their education through focusing on their own practice.

What would I gain from an MSc in practice-based research?

Apply for a MSc in Practice-based research, and your studies will be directly related to your work and professional area of interest. 

You will be supported in exploring your own practice through research leading to a Masters' qualification.  

The programme is intended for colleagues working within any professional context.

Current students on the programme are professionals in:

• schools
• the health service
• financial services
• engineering firms
• training consultancies
• universities

What is the format for research and study?

The programme consists of three modules, each worth 60 credits at Masters' level. 

The subject matter which is the focus of the learning activity will be particular to each student.     

1. Critical review of literature

What has already been written about the subject you are researching; how are you interpreting the literature and how are you developing a framework for understanding your own practice.  

2. Exploring research design

How can you design a pilot research project which allows you to learn about the most effective ways of exploring your focus in your professional context.  

3. The practice-based research project

You are given an opportunity to undertake specific primary research into your own practice in order to develop that practice and to establish yourself as a key contributor to the field.

The taught sessions guide you through the research processes and, along with tutorials, support your development as a practice-based researcher.

The programme takes 2 years part-time to complete.  

Each module is introduced with a 2-day block, intended to immerse you in the environment and identity of a practice-based researcher.

Three single follow-up days review how you are managing to maintain and sustain this identity back in your workplace.

Group and individual tutorials are used to support your development.     

The MSc teaching team includes professionals with a wide range of expertise at the forefront of education and social enquiry.

The MSc is thought-defining, by which I mean, the programme teaches us to look at things from different perspectives and to challenge assumptions.

Phillip Hancock

What sort of topic should I focus on?

Recent areas of focus researched by MSc students include:

• The use of drama in health training programmes
• Evaluation of the impact of teaching programmes
• The successful leadership of change Cultural influences on Total Quality Manage

This MSc has challenged me to reflect on my practice and develop how I think. Not only have I developed skills I didn't know I had, I also feel more confident and motivated as a manager.

Nicola Stallard

What further opportunities for study follow the MSc?

On completing the MSc programme, you will be well placed to continue with a research degree at Doctoral level. 

Apply for an Education research degree

Find out more about applying for a Master of Science (MSc) in Practice-Based Research at the University of Hertfordshire.