Masters by Research Warnborough College

Overview

You will need to submit a draft research proposal for the Research Committee evaluation. Researchers may nominate their own mentors or be allocated one by the Research Committee. Your mentor will work with you to modify the proposal as necessary before the Committee gives their final approval.

The intended research outcome should demonstrate competence in the subject area/profession at an advanced level (Masters) and/or contribute towards new or existing knowledge (Doctorate). The length of a Masters thesis is approximately 40,000 words, and for a Doctorate at least 70,000 words. Presentation format must follow either the Oxford, Harvard or Chicago methods. On acceptance, researchers are given full details of all academic requirements.

Key Facts

Throughout the research period, the researcher will work closely with his/her mentor by any method chosen by them. This may be online, via telephone, fax, letters, and/or face-to-face. The researcher’s activities will be mapped out across the credit scheme.

At the end of each term, the researcher and the mentor must each submit a progress report to the Research Committee. These reports are monitored closely so that the researcher can be guided accordingly.

When the mentor is satisfied that the work is ready for examination, a report is given to the Research Committee for their recommendation and for external examination. External examination is by two independent academics who will report back to the Research Committee with their recommendations.

After receiving the reports from the examiners, the Research Committee may recommend the award of the required degree, or resubmission with modifications or corrections, or a lesser degree.

If it is rejected again the researcher may appeal and request the appointment of two external university examiners. In some cases an oral defence (viva voce) may be required. Rejection could lead to outright failure or the awarding of a lesser degree.

A Masters by Research degree at Warnborough College requires considerable investigative ability, writing skills and critical analysis. It is an option only to be chosen by those with these qualities, and who feel confident that they can contribute to new knowledge.