Master of Research in Education - Institutional Development

The Master of Research in Education Institutional Development is a research-led postgraduate degree in education with taught elements, uniquely designed to equip students with the expertise to investigate, analyse, and address the challenges facing educational institutions in real-world contexts. It is grounded in research methodology, with particular emphasis on governance, leadership, organisational learning, and the processes that drive strategic development in schools, colleges, and universities. Students explore how educational policy, institutional culture, and systemic changes shape learning environments and leadership practices across diverse contexts. This pathway enables them to develop advanced research skills alongside transferable abilities that are highly valued by employers, such as critical analysis, data interpretation, reflective learning, ethical decision-making, and the capacity to communicate complex ideas effectively to a range of audiences. It also deepens their understanding of educational theory and practice, enabling them to contribute evidence-based improvements to teaching, learning, and policy. Students work with academics who are leading authorities in their areas of research, many of whom have extensive educational experience. The academic staff support students in their learning and in applying research techniques to real-world educational issues, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to research, policy, and practice. At the University of Hertfordshire, students become part of a vibrant research community in education, with opportunities to attend seminars, conferences, and interest groups, and to contribute to conversations shaping the future of education. They also have access to the University’s Researcher Development Programme, which provides additional training in advanced skills that support both their studies and future careers. The modules are taught by experts in educational theory, policy, and research design, with a strong emphasis on applying research methods to real institutional contexts. In the first year, students take modules that introduce key concepts in education, critical literature review, and research design, which equip them with the tools to analyse debates, trends, and challenges in education today. Students also begin developing their research proposal, which forms the foundation for their independent major research project in the second year. This project, supported by a dedicated supervisory team, provides an opportunity to explore a chosen topic in depth and develop specialist expertise in institutional development and education research. Teaching is delivered through a combination of study days, online activities, research seminars, and one-to-one supervision. Assessment methods are varied and designed to reflect real research practice, including literature reviews, research proposals, viva-style discussions, and the final dissertation.