Masters of Science by Research - Engineering
MSCR
One year full-time, two years part-time
Durham City
Course details
The Durham MScR in Engineering is a research-focused qualification offered over one year full-time or two years part-time, at the end of which you will produce a thesis.
The MScR has been developed for those who want to delve deeper into a specific engineering field through individually focused research. It gives you the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of engineering knowledge, developing novel methods, equipment, ideas, and solutions to some of the greatest challenges in your chosen research area. You will develop independent research skills beyond the scope of a taught masters course, supported by an academic team who will guide you through your studies.
The focus of your research degree will be shaped by your prior experience and career aspirations, and formulated in collaboration with world-leading academics in the Department of Engineering. If the topic is suitable and you demonstrate an aptitude for research, the MScR can pave the way to PhD level study, with the option to transfer after nine months. In this case, your first nine months of study would count towards the PhD.
While an MScR often serves as a pathway to academic research, the skills gained on the course also provide a solid foundation for careers that prioritise expertise in research methods.
As well as gaining expertise in your chosen field, you will cultivate a broader range of skills through the department’s Researcher Development Programme. This programme builds the personal and professional skills that will be valuable within your degree and beyond.
Learning
The MScR offers an exciting opportunity to involve yourself in the advanced research taking place in the Department of Engineering. While the majority of learning in a research masters is undertaken through independent study, you will be well supported by a supervisory team of academics, many of whom are internationally recognised experts in their fields, to guide your training and research direction throughout your studies.
As a research student you will have access to the fantastic range of research facilities, collaborations and services across the department.
You will also be assigned to one of our Research Nodes – thematic groupings of academics, researchers and PGR students providing critical research mass within our research challenges.
Assessment
You will be assessed by a thesis of up to 50,000 words, which is reviewed by independent academics with subject-specific expertise. The thesis should demonstrate an in-depth understanding, be based on original content and provide a critical discussion of relevant theories, debates and concepts. The word limit excludes the bibliography, appendices, tables, diagrams and photographs but includes footnotes and endnotes.
Depending on the choice of thesis, you may also be required to complete a viva voce.
Alternative qualifications
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements for this degree might have the option to complete an International Foundation Year.
Home students who do not meet our direct entry requirements, may be eligible for our Foundation Programme which offers multidisciplinary programmes to prepare you for a range of specified degree programmes.
Fees and funding
The fees for this academic year have not been confirmed yet.
Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances and are delighted to offer a range of funding opportunities.
Find out more about Scholarships and BursariesCareer opportunities
Engineering
We take great pride in our reputation for producing engineers who make a successful and significant contribution in a wide range of professional career roles around the world.
We have strong links with industrial partners and our postgraduates have achieved rewarding and stimulating positions in bio, civil, mechanical, electronic, electrical, manufacturing, design, aeronautics and systems engineering. They work as consultants, technology analysts, and software developers and as entrepreneurs, and also gain prestigious positions in banking and finance.
The Department has a dedicated careers contact who is available to offer advice and carry out mock interviews.
Our Industrial Partnership Committee of around 20 local, national and international companies will ensure you have access to the best employment opportunities.
Department information
Engineering
Engineering at Durham combines dynamic teaching led by subject experts with opportunities to carry out cutting-edge engineering research. Our courses provide the skills to plan, design and analyse innovative and forward-thinking projects that will meet the demands of industry.
The Department of Engineering is a general engineering department that works on the principle that engineering is an integrated subject rather than a series of unconnected topics. The world-leading teaching and the research opportunities that we offer underline this academic positioning.
We guide postgraduate researchers so that they are able to make a significant contribution in the Department’s key areas of engineering focus. These topics range from the development of energy systems of the future, through next generation materials and microsystems to creating sustainable infrastructures. All reflect the challenges now facing the modern world.
Taught courses include MSc qualifications in Advanced Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Renewable and Sustainable Energy, Environmental Engineering and Engineering Management. We also offer the Doctor of Philosophy and the Master of Science by Research, which involve individualised training and require an extensive research project or thesis to be completed.
Teaching and supervision are provided by the Department’s subject specialists, who have an outstanding reputation for their expertise. An extensive range of facilities is available to support research work and we have strong and productive links with industry partners, ensuring that the research is relevant and applicable at this challenging yet exciting time to be in engineering.
Facilities
The Department is located on the main campus at Lower Mountjoy, next to the main University library and Teaching and Learning Centre. We are also situated close to the centre of Durham city and a UNESCO World Heritage site.