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MRes Interdisciplinary Study

This Interdisciplinary Study degree from University of Birmingham combines practical experience of interdisciplinary research with a taught framework of contemporary critical theory. On our brand-new programme you have the opportunity to apply for specially-designed research positions within the University of Birmingham or create your own topic to follow your current expertise and interests.

Quick Facts

  
Full-Time Duration: 1 year
Starting in: September
Tuition Fee: £20,820 per full
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom

Do you ask questions across disciplinary boundaries? Are you open to the possibilities of collaboration? Do you have the ambition and determination to tackle complex, real-world problems? When you start this MRes you will become part of the growing Liberal Arts and Natural Sciences department at the University of Birmingham with undergraduates and staff all tackling interdisciplinary challenges at different stages. You will have access to dozens of cultural events and become a member of our LANS Lab, a place to engage with other academics undertaking interdisciplinary research.

Our students from the Interdisciplinary Study degree from University of Birmingham are innovative thinkers, future research leaders in academia, policy, industry, and beyond. Many go on to pursue a research career with a PhD, a role in a non-governmental or charitable organisation, or a position in research and development in industry.

The taught modules are:

  • The World of Interdisciplinary Research – A core module providing training in key aspects of interdisciplinary research, including funding, multi-disciplinary group work and grant writing.
  • an innovative module (‘The Open Skills Box’) that will allow you to combine educational resources available at Birmingham with online material from outside the University (e.g. MOOCs, etc) to widen your portfolio of skills and knowledge in preparation for your research project.
  • an optional module that you can choose from the modules available at Birmingham

“The transition from undergrad to postgrad can be a big step up in terms of workload and what is expected of you, but there is so much support available to you as a postgrad student, from academic writing support (if you’ve been out of education for a few years or just want a bit of extra help) to mental health and wellbeing services. The careers support is fantastic – the uni puts on employer fairs throughout the year and you have access to one on one support from the Careers Network team, who can help you develop your skills ready for your next step!”

Emma Sutton // PhD Psychology

Careers

This programme provides the opportunity to pursue an interdisciplinary career, for example:

  • in academic research, in an interdisciplinary PhD project
  • in policy-making, in a research role in a non-governmental organisation
  • in industry, in a research and development role

Your degree will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University.

The University’s Careers Network provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

  • Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
  • Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
  • Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences
  • Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV

Requirements

At least a 2.1 or equivalent in a subject area relevant for the proposed independent research project. An appropriate level of professional experience would also be acceptable (please contact the Programme Lead, Dr Julia Myatt, for advice).

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