MA by Research (MAR)

An MA by Research (MAR) is a Masters programme where there are no taught modules and you are examined by means of a thesis and a viva voce (oral) examination at the end.

Through the MA by Research, you'll conduct an original piece of independent research that will provide you with an in-depth understanding of your chosen topic. 

The MAR is available for in person study here in Leeds only. 

Structure

As a postgraduate researcher undertaking an MAR, you will be guided by a supervisory team, who'll be leading experts in your field. You will have regular meetings to monitor your progress during the course of your studies, and you will also attend research training sessions to ensure you develop the necessary research skills to succeed. The MAR can be considered ideal preparation for undertaking a PhD in that it is also entirely research-based.
You will write up your research in the form of a thesis of a maximum of 30,000 words. The degree of MA by Research is awarded on the basis of your thesis and a viva voce (oral) examination where you'll present and discuss the rationale, methods and findings of your research with an examining panel.

Duration

An MAR can be taken full-time (1 year standard) or part-time (2 years standard).

Areas of supervision

As one of the UK’s leading centres for research and teaching in languages, cultures and societies, we can supervise MARs in a wide variety of different disciplines and fields. You can explore our research areas to discover more about our academic staff and where your research interests may fit. You can also search our research opportunities database to search for a supervisor in your area.

Entry requirements

You should hold, or be working towards, a good honours degree (upper second class or first class) in a related discipline. 
If English is not your first language, you'll also need an English language qualification, for example IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in all components. For more details on alternative qualifications, see How to apply?
If you fall just short of the right IELTS level, you can improve your academic English to the standard needed to study a postgraduate research degree by taking one of the following pre-sessional courses:
•    6-week: Language for postgraduate researchers
•    10-week: Language for Social Science and Arts: postgraduate researchers

Scholarships and fees

We have a number of MAR scholarships available each year. Please note that these are highly competitive. Check the scholarships page to see the range of opportunities.
Fees for MAR programmes are set independently and reviewed on an annual basis. Check the University's fee page for current information.

Applications

See our how to apply page for help with admissions. 

For all enquiries, please contact the Graduate School Office, ahcpgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk.