This MA by Research degree provides an opportunity to develop advanced and specific knowledge in a particular field of study. Students have the freedom and flexibility to choose and develop their own subject area and the opportunity to enhance research and project management skills.
The postgraduate research team within the School of Health and Social Care is committed to providing the best possible experience. Students can work alongside experienced academics who will guide them through the research process, offering support on personal and professional development in order to maximise career opportunities on graduation.
Regular research seminars are hosted across the School and the wider College, and there are opportunities for students to meet with and discuss their projects with other research students at the University. The School has close ties with the University's central Doctoral School which provide a wealth of training opportunities for all research students and the chance to present their work at the annual research showcase.
Research Areas, Projects and Topics
The School is happy to consider research ideas in all areas of Health and Social Care and will endeavour to support prospective students wherever it can reasonably do so in terms of supervision capacity and expertise.
Below are some of the research areas where members of the team have particular expertise and would be happy to take on new students:
Health and Social Care leadership and management
Organisational development
Health in the criminal justice system
Safeguarding children and adults
Learning disabilities
Human rights
Migrant children and their families
Patient dignity
Diversity and cultural issues
Youth, social inclusion and marginalisation
Social work and social care services for children and families.
Career and Personal Development
Students may choose to continue to build their research skills by pursuing a research career in either the academic or non-academic sectors. A wide range of industries and organisations looking to employ graduates with research and analytical skills and the ability to manage complex and large-scale projects.
Some students may decide to move on to further study, building on the knowledge base established during the research programme. Most commonly this would be a PhD, but there may be other options within a specific career area.
If you are already in employment, successfully gaining your Master's by Research may open up new opportunities and routes to progression.
How You Study
As this is a research degree there is no formal taught content on the programme. Students will work with a carefully selected supervision team who will support them to develop their subject and research methods knowledge and executing their research project.
Full-time students are expected to meet with their supervisors at least 12 times in a calendar year (six times for part-time students). The length and frequency of supervision meetings will depend on existing research experience, the preferred approach of the student and supervisor, and the stage of the study. In between meetings, students are expected to study independently, be self-motivated, and use their initiative to identify and address their own learning needs.
Prioritising Face-to-Face Teaching
At the University of Lincoln, we strive to ensure our students’ experience is engaging, supportive, and academically challenging. Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, we have adapted to Government guidance to keep our students, staff, and community safe. All remaining Covid-19 legal restrictions in England were lifted in February 2022 under the Government’s Plan for Living with Covid-19, and we have embraced a safe return to in-person teaching on campus. Where appropriate, face-to-face teaching is enhanced by the use of digital tools and technology and may be complemented by online opportunities where these support learning outcomes.
We are fully prepared to adapt our plans if changes in Government guidance make this necessary, and we will endeavour to keep current and prospective students informed.
Fees and Funding
For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.
Programme-Specific Additional Costs
Research students may be required to pay additional fees to cover the cost of specialist resources, equipment or access to facilities that may be required to support their research project. These will be informed by the research proposal submitted and will be calculated on an individual basis. Any additional fees will be outlined in your offer letter, prior to accepting your place at the University of Lincoln.
How You Are Assessed
This programme is assessed by the submission of a written thesis (maximum 25,000 words), and normally an oral examination (viva voce). Students will be examined by two examiners, one internal to the University and one external. Following the oral examination, it may be necessary to undertake some amendments to the thesis in order to completely satisfy the criteria for the award.
Entry Requirements 2023-24
A minimum upper second-class honours degree in a related subject. Those interested should contact the programme leader.
Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.
How to Apply
Students will need to submit a research proposal that outlines their proposed topic of study, the rationale for their research question, and an indication of the research methods that will be used. We strongly encourage applicants to make contact with the School’s Postgraduate Research Lead or Postgraduate Research Administrator prior to application as they will be able to provide further advice and information about potential supervisors.
