ObjectivesThis exciting course allows you to specialise by completing an extended research project in one of our highly rated research teams within the School of Biomedical and Natural Sciences (rated grade 5 in RAE 2001).
Completion of an MRes will give you the theoretical and practical skills needed for a career in the appropriate subject area within a company or equip you for entry to PhD studies.
Entry requirementsThis course is ideal if you:
* have laboratory experience (undergraduate project work or work in an appropriate organisation)
* are a recently qualified undergraduate and are looking for the professional skills needed to obtain a job in a bioscience company
* are working in an organisation and want a masters-level qualification to give you a competitive edge
* require the skills and experience needed to study for a research degree
* are an international student who would like to study abroad
* would like the chance for extended research work in the lab of an experienced research academic.
Academic titleMRes Environmental Biology
Course descriptionMRes Environmental Biology
Modules
The course requires you to complete 60 cp (one third of the course) as taught modules, plus a 120 cp research project (two-thirds of the course) supported by the Research Methods module. You have to study the following modules:
* Business and Bioethics
In this module you will look at key commercial and ethical issues in research and development in the fields of applied bioscience. Working as a member of a team, you will take such issues into consideration in the formulation of a business plan designed to promote a specific project for commercial development.
* Research Methods
In this module you will develop your skills in the use of software packages for statistical analysis of data. You will learn how to plan, write and deliver oral presentations and research proposals. There will also be sessions involving critical appraisal of scientific papers and the preparation of poster presentations.
* Research Project
This lasts the entire length of the course, and you will choose a research area related to the title of your award from those offered by staff in the School. We may be able to accommodate a specific research idea which you already have by discussion with relevant staff.
In addition to these you will choose further modules from those offered within the School. We will talk to you about this choice to make sure that you have a coherent learning package, and that the optional modules suit the title of the award and complement your academic background.
Assessment
Taught modules are assessed by a variety of different types of course work including written assignments, oral presentations and poster presentations, and examinations. The Research Project will involve the design, implementation and reporting of a major research task as a thesis and presentation orally and/or as a poster.
Study routes
This course will be delivered through lectures, laboratory classes, demonstrations, computer packages, and project work. We have state-of-the-art lecture, computing, library and laboratory facilities at your disposal. There will be various support mechanisms to help and advise you, including email contact with all tutors, a virtual learning environment for course information and messages, and pastoral support from our International Coordinator and Postgraduate Courses Administrator. The University offers an induction programme for international students, and English language classes if required.