MSc Business by Research
Develop advanced research capability while producing an original, independent dissertation in a specialist area of business management.
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Course overview
About the course
The Master’s Business by Research degree is a flexible, research-intensive degree designed for ambitious graduates and professionals who want to develop advanced research expertise and make a meaningful contribution to business knowledge. You will work closely with expert supervisors to design and complete an independent research project aligned to your academic or professional interests.
This master’s degree, offered by the School of Business, is a postgraduate research degree that enables students to develop advanced research capability while producing an original, independent dissertation in a specialist area of any sub-domain that falls under business management.
Unlike taught master’s programmes, this degree is centred on autonomous enquiry. Students are supported through structured research methods training and one-to-one academic supervision, allowing them to investigate real-world business challenges or theoretical questions in depth. Research topics may span areas such as business management, marketing, customer experience, organisational behaviour, digital transformation, leadership and governance, or related interdisciplinary fields.
The programme is available on a full-time or part-time basis, with September and January entry points (January 2027 only), making it suitable for both recent graduates and working professionals. The intensive 12-month full-time route offers an accelerated pathway into research careers or doctoral study, while the part-time option allows students to balance study alongside professional commitments.
Students benefit from small cohort sizes, close academic mentoring, and access to specialist research software and databases. The programme also serves as an ideal foundation for progression to doctoral study, particularly for those considering a PhD in Business.
Graduates of MSc Business by Research develop advanced analytical, methodological, and critical thinking skills that are highly valued across academia, consultancy, policy, and industry-based research roles.
Course Highlights
- Independent, research-focused master’s degree with minimal taught components.
- Suitable for academic, consultancy, and industry-based research careers.
- Access to specialist research software including SPSS, AMOS and NVIVO.
- Ideal preparation for doctoral (DPhil/PhD) study.
- One-to-one supervision from experienced academic researchers.
- Small cohort sizes and personalised academic support.
- Flexible full-time (1 year) and part-time (2 years) study options available.
Course breakdown
The programme consists of a short, structured research methods component followed by an extended independent dissertation. Students develop a research proposal, conduct a comprehensive literature review, collect and analyse data, and produce a substantial original dissertation under academic supervision.
Year 1
Students develop core research skills through the Framing a Doctoral Problem: From Practice Issue to Researchable Inquiry module, before focusing on their independent dissertation. The year is dedicated to proposal development, literature review, data collection, analysis, and thesis writing, supported by regular supervisory meetings.
Year 2 (part-time students only)
Part-time students progress through the same research stages at a slower pace, allowing time to balance professional commitments. The second year focuses on completing data analysis, refining theoretical contributions, and finalising the dissertation.
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Teaching and assessment
We keep class sizes small so you won’t get lost in the crowd. You will be assigned a personal tutor to support you every step of the way, and our academic and student support teams will ensure you have the tools to success in your studies. We value the quality of your learning experience.
Teaching methods
Teaching on the MSc Business by Research degree is centred on supervision-led learning and independent enquiry. Students begin with a research methods component that develops essential skills in research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, academic writing, ethics, and data analysis.
Following this, learning is primarily guided through structured one-to-one supervision. Supervisors provide academic guidance on refining research questions, developing theoretical frameworks, selecting appropriate methodologies, and interpreting findings. Regular supervisory meetings ensure consistent academic progress while encouraging independence and critical thinking.
Students also engage in self-directed study, literature exploration, data collection, and analysis using specialist software such as SPSS, AMOS and NVivo. Where appropriate, students may participate in research seminars, workshops, and School of Business research activities to further enrich their academic development.
Assessment Methods
Assessment of this master’s degree is entirely coursework-based. Students are assessed primarily through a substantial independent dissertation, which demonstrates their ability to design, conduct, analyse, and present original research at postgraduate level.
The dissertation is examined through a written submission and a formal viva voce examination. There are no written examinations on this programme. Assessment focuses on research originality, theoretical contribution, methodological rigour, critical analysis, and academic writing quality.
After your course
Graduates of the MSc Business by Research degree are well prepared for doctoral study, academic careers, and research-intensive professional roles. The programme provides a strong foundation for progression to a DPhil or PhD, particularly for students seeking to develop a research career in business or management. For professionals, the degree supports advancement into strategic, analytical, and consultancy roles where evidence-based decision-making is essential.
Here are just some of the career opportunities and skills that can stem from studying on this course:
Career opportunities
- Doctoral Researcher (PhD / DPhil)
- Business or Management Researcher
- Research Consultant
- Policy or Market Analyst
- Customer Insight or Analytics Specialist
- Academic or Research Associate
Career skills
- Advanced research design and methodology
- Critical and analytical thinking
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Academic and professional writing
- Independent project management
- Evidence-based decision making
Careers and Employability Support
Our courses strive to effectively combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. The Buckingham tutorial teaching model means that our students are well prepared as they embark on their careers and future study.
Find out more about our Careers and Employability Service.
Further study
Further your expertise in your field of study with our doctoral degrees.
“Upon completing my postgraduate degree, I have undoubtedly obtained the necessary independent and research skills to embark on my professional journey. The extensive knowledge I have acquired through this advanced degree sets me apart from other candidates, giving me a distinct advantage.”
Eleanor, Postgraduate student
Entry requirements
See our general University entry requirements for information on flexible entry, mature students and alternative qualifications.
The standard entry requirements for this course are: A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in business, management, marketing, social sciences, or a related discipline. Relevant professional experience may also be considered.
International Applicants
International applicants must meet the academic requirements above and normally hold an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (or equivalent), with no element below the University’s minimum requirements.
Find out about our requirements and see useful information for international applicants:
If you are uncertain whether you will be eligible to apply for this course, please contact our Admissions team.
Course fees
The fees for this course are:
| Start | Type | 1st Year | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Month Year Full-time (2 Years) | UK | £00,000 | £00,000 |
| INT | £00,000 | £00,000 | |
Month Year Full-time (2 Years) | UK | £00,000 | £00,000 |
| INT | £00,000 | £00,000 |
The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
There are no additional compulsory costs beyond tuition fees for this course. Students may wish to budget for printing or specialist data collection expenses depending on the nature of their research project.
Scholarships and bursaries
How to apply
Apply direct
Apply online from this page as:
- You can apply until shortly before the course starts.
- There are no application fees.
You can apply directly through our website by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ button.