A MRes is awarded for research that demonstrates that the candidate’s thesis: has adequately delineated the topic of concern by critically reflecting on current research in the relevant field, produces empirical outcomes or analytical evaluations that are clearly justified and that respond to or reflect on the relevant literature, and is satisfactory as regards to literary presentation. First year The first year of the program consists of eight research oriented units, which are deemed at the advanced undergraduate coursework level. These are designed to enable students to develop the necessary research skills across a number of core elements, that will help facilitate completion of the thesis in the second year. The year consists of a Research Communications unit [MRES700] that introduces students to the purpose of research, as well as academic conventions of style, and the philosophy of science, Secondly, a Research Frontiers unit [FOBE710] within the specified discipline involves seminars that provide a forum for students to engage with leading edge research in their field. They will evaluate strengths and weaknesses in the work of other scholars, learn to think more clearly about their own work and develop the ability to critique research and scholarship in their chosen discipline. Students are also required to complete two qualitative and/or quantitative research methodology units as part of the first year, in order to enable an understanding of the contexts in which quantitative and qualitative research can be undertaken and their ability to analyse, conduct, and evaluate quantitative and qualitative forms of research. Students are also required to undertake 4 advanced discipline specific units from the department in which they are enrolled in order to develop core knowledge within their research area. Second year The second years consists of a single research project with a maximum length of 15,000-20,000 words, at the Masters postgraduate level. It involves research preparation and experience in a specific research topic at the sub-discipline level, requiring candidates, at various juncture points to; Extend their knowledge of research innovations in their discipline Survey the current literature relating to their research project Study the latest research methods in their field Receive training in project management Plan a major research project Complete a significant individual research pilot project Students receive an externally assessed percentage grade for their thesis, which provides the basis upon which entry into the MPhil and PhD is made.