What Is a Master by Research (MRes)?
A Master by Research (MRes) is a one-year postgraduate degree in which most of your time goes on an independent research project instead of lectures. You usually take a small number of training modules in research methods, then complete a dissertation or thesis under a supervisor.
It suits students who want to move toward a PhD, work in R&D or policy, or build a deeper specialism than a taught Master's allows. A taught MSc, by contrast, is built around classes, exams and a shorter dissertation.
MRes vs. Taught Master's: Which Should You Choose?
| MRes | Taught MSc/MA | |
|---|---|---|
| Main focus | Research project | Classes + dissertation |
| Assessment | Thesis, research portfolio | Exams, coursework, dissertation |
| Best for | PhD path, research careers | Industry roles, career change |
| Supervisor | Close, one-to-one | Module leaders, one dissertation supervisor |
| Dependants (visa) | Possible (research-based course) | Generally not allowed |
If your goal is a job in industry within a year, a taught Master's is usually the more direct route. If you want to test whether a PhD is right for you, MRes is a lower-risk first step.
Fees and Entry Requirements for 2027
Tuition for international students varies widely by university and subject. Lab-based subjects such as engineering and biosciences cost more than humanities. As a rough guide, expect about £14,000 to £25,000 for the year. These are approximate figures, so always confirm the fee for your exact course.
- Academic: a good Bachelor's degree, usually equivalent to a UK 2:1, in a relevant subject.
- English: typically IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 5.5–6.0 in each skill. Some universities accept PTE or Duolingo.
- Research proposal: many MRes courses ask for a short proposal or a named supervisor.
- References: academic referees who can speak to your research potential.
Can You Bring Dependants on an MRes?
Since January 2024, most international Master's students can no longer bring dependants. The exception is research-based postgraduate courses. Universities treat MRes degrees as research-based, so students on a full-time MRes of nine months or longer may be able to bring a partner and children.
Visa Funds and Work After Your MRes
For a Student visa you must show maintenance funds for up to nine months: £1,171/£1,529 per month now, rising to £1,203/£1,570 from November 30, 2026. For nine months that is about £10,827 outside London or £14,130 in London after the increase, on top of your first-year tuition balance. The Student visa fee is £558 and the Immigration Health Surcharge is £776 per year.
After your degree, the Graduate Route lets you stay and work for a set period. For applications from January 1, 2027, that period is 18 months. A research degree can also open the way to a PhD or a Skilled Worker role.
Frequently Asked Questions
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