MRes applications
- What is the difference between an MSc and an MRes?
An MSc is primarily a taught degree that provides you with a broad knowledge base in a specialist area through completion of core and elective modules, culminating in a short research project. In contrast, the MRes in Infectious & Tropical Diseases has a much reduced taught component (just two elective modules chosen from LSHTM’s MSc list) and is dominated by the 9-10 month research project, the development of which is supported by two MRes-specific modules.
- How does an MRes compare to an MPhil?
The MRes in Infectious & Tropical Diseases is designed to be completed in one year of full time study. It is structured to provide a substantive research experience (the 9-10 month research project) and a range of transferable skills, including fundamental research skills, proposal writing and scientific dissemination. During the MRes you will also be required to complete two elective modules from LSHTM’s MSc list, enabling you developed additional specialist knowledge and skills. In contrast, full time registration for an MPhil is typically for up to two years, there is no required taught element, and the award is based solely on the final MPhil thesis. Get more details on the MPhil and other research degrees at LSHTM.
- How long does the admissions review process take? What does it entail?
Complete applications, including references and all other required elements, are first reviewed by the Admissions team for eligibility. The Programme Director then carries out an initial academic review of eligible applications, before passing suitable applications to the lead supervisors of the applicant’s two preferred projects. Applicants receiving favourable reviews from the Programme Director and at least one lead project supervisor are invited for interview. The interview panel is chaired by the Programme Director and includes either both lead supervisors or one lead supervisor plus another appropriate academic (where only one of the nominated projects is available).
Successful applicants will be informally notified as soon as possible after interview and will be asked to confirm their preferred project choice, after which the Admissions team will be informed and an official offer of a place on the programme will be made. We aim to complete the admissions process (from receipt of a full application to receipt of the official offer letter) within six-eight weeks, sooner where possible.- When will applicants receive an offer?
Successful applicants should expect to receive informal notification from the Programme Director within two days of their interview (where this might not be possible due to interview scheduling, applicants will be informed of the expected timeline). The informal offer will include a request for the successful applicant to confirm their project choice. Once the applicant’s project choice is confirmed, the Admissions team will be notified and asked to send an official offer of a place on the programme.
- Is prior professional or research experience required for admission?
The minimum entry requirement is an upper second class degree (or equivalent) in a discipline relevant to your chosen MRes research project(s). However, the application process is likely to be competitive. Therefore, relevant experience gained during your studies or employment that demonstrates your scientific aptitude and potential as a researcher will be advantageous.
The MRes programme
- Can the programme be completed part-time or through a split-study format?
The MRes in Infectious and Tropical Diseases is not available as a split study course. However, depending on the nature of the planned research project it may be compatible with part-time study. This will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Programme Director in the first instance.
- How many days per week are students expected to be on campus during Term 1?
Students are expected to be on campus throughout week 1 for orientation. During the remainder of the first half of term-1 you are expected to be on campus at least three days per week. This time will be spent taking part in sessions supporting the development of your Research Proposal and attending research skills sessions. On-campus attendance beyond the timetabled sessions is strongly encouraged to enable you to fully benefit from the academic opportunities and resources available at LSHTM.
- Is attendance on campus mandatory throughout the programme?
On-campus attendance is compulsory during week-1 (orientation) and for timetabled sessions on the Research Proposal module and other required in-person training sessions during the first half of term-1. Otherwise, you are expected to manage your on-campus attendance to best suit your research project and any required training. You are strongly encouraged to spend as much time as possible at LSHTM to ensure you can fully benefit from the academic opportunities available at the School.
- Do you need to be in London if the project is taking place in one of the locations abroad?
Attendance in London is compulsory for the first half of term-1 to enable full in-person engagement on the Research Proposal module, access to learning resources, and completion of other essential in-person training. Upon satisfactory completion of the Research Proposal module and receipt of all necessary approvals, students will start their research projects, which may require periods of time overseas. Where this is the case, you will be expected to engage remotely with MRes and other academic activities at LSHTM.
- Can I know who the project supervisors are?
At this stage, no. If you have any questions about the projects, please feel free to contact the Programme Director by email ([email protected]).
- What support do MRes students get? (Personal tutors, supervisors etc)
While working on your research project you will be supported by a dedicated supervisory team. Alongside your supervisors, you will also be assigned an independent tutor, responsible for overseeing your progress and ensuring that you’re appropriately supported. Finally, the Programme Director maintains regular contact with students, tutors, supervisors and module organisers, ensuring that any issues are managed appropriately and effectively.
- How does this programme support progression into research careers?
The MRes in Infectious & Tropical Diseases is designed to provide students with a substantive research experience, as well as a range of relevant transferable skills, essential for a future research career. LSHTM’s Careers Service is able to provide advice regarding non-academic research careers, while the MRes programme team will advise on academic research careers, including PhD and other research degree opportunities.