This programme provides a first step in research training for health professionals currently working in clinical areas who want to develop a health related research component to their career. Guided by a supervision team you will undertake a research project and gain confidence in using research methods, project management, and research governance.
There is an opportunity to work alongside existing research staff on established research projects. In Nursing and Midwifery we are particularly interested in supporting applicants who wish to research palliative and end of life care across the life span, and in various healthcare settings. We are also interested in projects related to organisation and delivery of services and risk, abuse and violence.
Why Study this Course?
Studying the Clinical Health Research (MRes) will give you research and project management skills that can be used in clinical research projects. You may be motivated to answer a clinical question, improve health, or be seeking to develop your research or academic career. The combination of flexible learning, taught modules and the research thesis makes this a flexible and stimulating programme which gives students skills, awareness and the intellectual discipline required to carry out rigorous, effective, patient centred research. The programme will provide you with support to acquire practical research skills, help you to develop your understanding of Good Clinical Practice in research, and to explore various research methodologies and methods.
You will be supported by a supervisory team in designing your research question, exploring the background to your project, designing rigorous methods, and completing ethical review (as appropriate). Your supervisors will also challenge you to develop your writing and interrogate your assumptions and conclusions.
Modules
You will study three modules (two core and one optional) and you will complete a thesis based on a research project.
The taught modules provide opportunity for flexible learning, with the Programme Management and Research Governance module delivered online.
Compulsory modules
- Quantitative Research Methods in Healthcare
- Qualitative Research Methods
You will select one option module from those on offer (20 M level credits), for example:
- Creating and applying evidence
- Systematic reviews and evidence synthesis
- Mixed methods in research
- Current issues in health
- Project Management and Research Governance (Distance Learning)
Students intending to gain the MRes qualification undertake a research project equivalent in effort to 120 taught credits and submit a 15,000 word thesis.
Entry Requirements
If you have a first degree:
- A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a healthcare related subject
If you do not have a first degree:
- Postgraduate qualification and or experience in a relevant health related area will be considered
- Evidence of the capability to study at masters level
All applicants must have:
- Current registration with an appropriate healthcare regulatory body (e.g. NMC, GMC, BPS or HCPC
- Access to a research population
- A minimum of 18 months post qualification experience
- Two academic/employer references in support of your application and professional and academic capabilities
- Transcripts of your degrees so far (certified and translated in to English if appropriate)
Research
The School of Biomedical Science is one of six schools within the Institute of Clinical Sciences. To help you identify a supervisor related to your research area you may like to explore the research interests of our academic staff within the Institute of Clinical Sciences.
There are also existing research opportunities offering specific topics and projects on which you can complete your PhD. Search our Doctoral Researcher Database to find out about our latest vacancies and scholarship opportunities.
Course Website
( https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/combined/med/clinical-health-research.aspx )
