"Difference Between Taught and Research Masters "

"Difference Between Taught and Research Masters "

"Difference Between Taught and Research Masters "
Ashma Shrestha

After completing their undergraduate studies, many students need guidance about whether to enter the workforce or continue their education. One option that may be considered is pursuing a master's degree, which can offer several benefits, including personal and professional development and the opportunity to gain more specialised knowledge and skills in a particular field. However, it's essential for students to carefully consider their options and choose the master's program that best aligns with their interests and goals. In this blog, we will explore the main differences between two types of master's programs: Taught Master and Research Master.

What is Taught Masters's program?

A Taught Masters's program, also known as a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Arts (MA) program, is a postgraduate degree program that provides students with a broad understanding of a subject area and prepares them for a career in a specific field. Taught Masters's programs typically involve taking courses and possibly completing a project or dissertation. These programs are often more practical and are designed to give students a strong foundation in a particular subject.

Taught Masters's programs can be found in many subject areas, including business, education, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. They may be offered full-time or part-time and typically take one to two years to complete.

Taught Masters's programs may be suitable for students who have recently completed their undergraduate studies and are looking to gain a general understanding of a subject or prepare for a specific career. They can provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their chosen field and can lead to a wide range of career options.

To apply to a Taught Masters program, students must have completed a bachelor's degree. They may need to meet specific requirements, such as having a certain grade point average or submitting transcripts and letters of recommendation. Admissions decisions may also be based on the availability of funding and the availability of spaces in the program.

Taught Masters's programs can provide valuable knowledge and skills to help students succeed in their chosen careers. They are a popular choice for postgraduate study and can lead to many career opportunities.

What is Research Masters's program?

A Research Masters's program, also known as a Master of Research (MRes) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) program, is a postgraduate degree program that focuses on developing research skills and preparing students for a career in academia or research. These programs involve completing a research project under the supervision of a faculty member and are typically more theoretical.

Research Masters's programs are available in a wide range of subject areas and can be offered full-time or part-time. They typically take one to two years to complete and may be a stepping stone to a doctoral degree.

Research Masters's programs may be suitable for students interested in pursuing a career in academia or research and who may be interested in eventually earning a doctoral degree. They can provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct original research and contribute to advancing knowledge in their field.

To apply to a Research Masters's program, students typically need to have completed a bachelor's degree. They may need to meet specific requirements, such as having a certain grade point average or submitting transcripts and letters of recommendation. Admissions decisions may also be based on the availability of funding and the availability of spaces in the program.

Overall, Research Masters's programs can provide valuable research skills and knowledge to help students succeed in academia or research careers. They are a popular choice for students who are interested in pursuing a research-focused career and can lead to a wide range of career opportunities.

Major Differences Between Taught Masters and Research Masters  

Here are some major differences between Taught Masters and Research Masters programs:

Category

Taught Masters

Research Masters

Purpose

to provide students with a broad understanding of a subject area and prepare them for a career in a specific field.

To develop research skills and prepare students for a career in academia or research.

Structure

typically involves taking courses and completing a project or dissertation.

Involve completing a research project under the supervision of a faculty member.

Suitable for

those who want to gain general knowledge or prepare for a career in a specific field.

More suitable for students who are interested in pursuing a career in academia or research and who may be interested in eventually earning a doctoral degree.

Degree awarded

Award of a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Arts (MA) degree.

Master of Research (MRes) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree.

Assessment

is assessed through exams, coursework, and possibly a project or dissertation.

Assessed based on the quality and originality of the research project.

Career options

diverse

Academia or Research

Taught Masters vs Research Masters: Which One is Better?

When considering whether to pursue a Taught Masters's or Research Masters's program, carefully consider your goals and interests. Both types of programs can provide valuable knowledge and skills, but their focus and structure differ.

Taught Masters's programs, also known as Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Arts (MA) programs, are designed to provide students with a broad understanding of a subject area and prepare them for a career in a specific field. These programs typically involve taking courses and completing a project or dissertation. Taught Masters's programs are often more practical. They may be suitable for students who want to gain a general understanding of a subject or are interested in preparing for a specific career.

Research Masters's programs, also known as Master of Research (MRes) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programs, are designed to develop research skills and prepare students for a career in academia or research. These programs involve completing a research project under the supervision of a faculty member and may be more theoretical. Research Masters's programs may be more suitable for students interested in pursuing a career in research or academia and who may be interested in eventually earning a doctoral degree.

In terms of duration, both Taught Masters' and Research Masters' programs typically take one to two years. Both types of programs can lead to a wide range of career options, depending on the subject area. Taught Masters's programs can lead to careers in various fields.

In contrast, Research Masters's programs may be more suitable for careers in academia, research, or industries that value research skills.

You must consider your long-term career goals and interests when deciding which program is best for you. If you are interested in gaining a broad understanding of a subject and preparing for a specific career, a Taught Masters's program may be the best choice. 

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