Entry requirementsThe Department of Geographical and Earth Sciences runs a Masters in Research (MRes) programme in human geography aimed at those who are seeking to develop a career in research.
Academic titleMRes in Human Geography: Space, Policy and Power
Course description Focusing upon the themes of space, power and policy, the MRes offers a postgraduate training in research concepts and methods. The programme is designed both for students who are considering pursuing doctoral research in human geography and the social sciences, and for those looking to develop a career in research in public, private and voluntary sectors.
The MRes is an integral part of the Department’s Human Geography Research Group (HGRG) and students are considered part of the Group’s wider research community. Established in 2002-3, the Masters has run successfully for five years with 30 students having graduated (as of January 2008). Twelve students have gone on to take PhDs while others have progressed to a variety of careers in public, private and voluntary sectors (see below).
The programme is divided into the following modules:
- Conceptualising Human Geography: Space, Policy and Power (40 credits)
- Researching Human Geography: Design, Methods and Ethics (40 credits)
- Qualitative Methods (20 credits)
- Quantitative Methods (20 credits)
- IT Skills and Resource Discovery training (exemption if proven competence)
- 15,000 word dissertation (based on guided independent research)(60 credits)
Alternatively, students can choose a different pathway involving the following compulsory modules:
- Conceptualising Human Geography: Space, Policy and Power (40 credits)
- Researching Human Geography: Design, Methods and Ethics (40 credits)
- IT Skills and Resource Discovery training (exemption if proven competence)
- 15,000 word dissertation (based on guided independent research)(60 credits)
Plus one of the following:
- Qualitative Methods (20 credits)
- Quantitative Methods (20 credits)
Plus a further 20 credits from the Social Science Faculty suite of courses (subject to availability and timetable restrictions and agreement with the Course Convenor).
The course is taught primarily through small group teaching, involving lectures, but mainly through workshops, seminars and reading-based discussion groups. Students are encouraged to take an active part in these sessions and also to give short presentations on their proposed research topics during the year.
Examples of past graduates and their destinations post-MRes
Anthony, Donald (2003) – PhD (Tanzania)
Bauer, Andrew (2004) – Community Land Adviser, Highlands and Islands Enterprise
Beel, David (2006) – PhD (Glasgow)
Carrey, Chris (2002-2003) – police force
Davidson, Neil (2007) - PhD (Dundee)
Duffy, Lorna (2006) – Communities Scotland
Jamieson, Robin (2007) - PhD (Durham)
Kinsella, Rachel (2006) – Researcher, Institute for Social Research