Clinical Research MRes/PG Cert

Course essentials

There are two compulsory modules on qualitative and quantitative research methods to give you the knowledge you need to work as a researcher. They cover every element of research, from the concept and design of studies, to how to carry out your project in a health environment. You will also learn how to critically appraise specialist health research.

If you are following the part-time study pathway, you will typically complete the qualitative and quantitative research methods and the optional modules in the first year and the dissertation in the second and final year.

You can then choose optional modules from any of the Health faculties at King’s to tailor your programme to your interests. Once you have completed the taught elements of the course you will write a dissertation in clinical research. Our MRes programme is flexible, allowing for full- or part-time study. There is also the option of completing a PG Certificate in Clinical Research (This is Part-time: one year).

New funding offered by the HEE/NIHR Pre-doctoral Clinical Academic Fellowship scheme has made this a more popular choice among students. Although you need to apply directly to the NIHR for this funding, we can support you with your application. Additional support is available to Practitioners with the appropriate innovation and critical-thinking skills to develop a future clinical academic career.

Teaching methods - what to expect

We use a comprehensive range of teaching and learning methods, each tailored to the current area of study. We will use a delivery method that will ensure students have a rich, exciting experience from the start. Face to face online/in-person teaching will be complemented and supported with digital education technologies so that students experience digital learning and assessment.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars and self-study. You will spend approximately 25% of your time in scheduled learning and teaching activities such as lectures, seminars, tutorials, project supervision and workshops. You will spend approximately 75% of your time in guided independent study such as preparing for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading, project work and completion of assessment task or revision. Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work.

For MRes students the 90-credit dissertation, most of the 900 hours are made up of self-study time supported by a monthly seminar programme and supervision sessions.

Assessment

• Written Examinations

• Practical Examinations

• Course Work

Your performance will be assessed through a combination of coursework and written/practical examinations.  Forms of assessment may typically include written assignments such as essays and portfolios. MRes students will also complete the 90-credit Dissertation in Clinical Research.

The study time and assessment methods detailed above are typical and give you a good indication of what to expect. However, they may change if the course modules change.