Masters by Research in Built Environment (MRes) Birmingham City University - City Centre Campus, UK

The Master of Research (MRes) in Built Environment is a flexible and comprehensive research training course designed to provide graduates with the skills and expertise necessary for a career in research, academia, or industry within the built environment sector. This course offers high-quality postgraduate training in research methods and practice, along with the development of transferable skills that will advance your knowledge in areas such as urban design, project management, sustainability, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Throughout the course, you will engage in advanced research methods, from developing initial research ideas and proposals to applying contemporary research philosophies and methodologies. This process is designed to prepare you for further doctoral-level study, publishing your research, or demonstrating the skills required for a career in the built environment sector. You will also have the opportunity to specialise in a chosen area within the built environment, benefiting from the multidisciplinary expertise of our research team.

The MRes in Built Environment course is structured to provide a balance of independent research and taught elements, ensuring a rigorous research-focused experience. Central to the course is a major research thesis, where you will undertake a substantial independent research project within a specific area of the built environment. This thesis is subject to examination by an external examiner, maintaining the high academic standards expected of research degrees. In addition to the thesis, you will engage in taught elements that provide essential research training, with the opportunity to specialise in areas aligned with your research topic. These taught modules are designed to support the development of your research skills and are tailored to the specialism you choose to pursue in your thesis. The course is ideal for graduates from diverse academic backgrounds, including architecture, construction management, surveying, planning, real estate, engineering, and other built environment disciplines.

Key areas of focus include advanced research methodology, data analysis, and the development of independent research skills within a specific area of the built environment. The majority of the course is dedicated to conducting original research under the guidance of experienced supervisors, allowing you to focus deeply on a specialised topic. While some structured learning on research methods is included, the emphasis is on autonomous research, enabling you to engage critically with your chosen field. You will also develop essential skills in presenting your findings through professional outputs such as conference papers, grant proposals, and peer-reviewed journal articles. This approach ensures that you gain expertise in both your subject area and the research process, preparing you for successful careers in academia, research, or industry.

With a growing demand for skilled researchers in the built environment, this MRes course prepares you to make meaningful contributions to the sector, while also supporting your professional development and employability. You will have access to the College’s extensive industry networks and research groups, providing valuable opportunities to work with external partners and enhance your future career prospects.

What's covered in this course?