Educational Research at the University of Cambridge is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to advance the field of education through rigorous research. This program offers a unique opportunity for educators, researchers, and policymakers to engage with the latest developments in educational theory, methodology, and policy analysis. Students will explore a wide range of topics including learning theories, curriculum development, assessment strategies, educational technology, and social justice in education. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, data analysis skills, and evidence-based decision-making, enabling graduates to contribute meaningfully to educational improvement in diverse settings. Courses typically involve a blend of lectures, seminars, and hands-on research projects, supported by access to world-class facilities and expert faculty members who are leading scholars in education research. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in research and encourages students to develop innovative approaches to solving contemporary challenges in education. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to collaborate with colleagues from different backgrounds and to engage with ongoing research initiatives within the university. The University of Cambridge's rich academic environment provides a stimulating setting for learning and professional growth, fostering connections with educational institutions worldwide. Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for careers in academic research, educational policy development, school leadership, and consultancy roles, with the ability to critically evaluate educational practices, formulate evidence-based recommendations, and contribute to educational reform. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their professional interests and future career goals, making it an ideal choice for those committed to advancing education through research. With a reputation for academic excellence and a strong global network, the University of Cambridge's Educational Research program is a distinguished pathway for aspiring educational researchers seeking to make a significant impact in the field.

Students attend taught sessions once a week.  The course consists of two levels. Introductory Level sessions will offer a general introduction to different aspects of educational research. Intermediate Level sessions are divided into two types: (1) the compulsory core sessions offer further elements focused on the foundations of educational research theory and practice; (2) the elective sessions offer intermediate level topics built on the foundation sessions taught at Introductory Level. Students are required to take all Introductory and Intermediate main programme sessions and should select 44 hours of the elective elements of the programme. The elective sessions are intended to facilitate students' depth of understanding and application of approaches appropriate to their proposed lines of enquiry. The course has been designed to allow students intending to undertake a particular mode of enquiry to focus more attention on their preferred methods within a framework that still ensures a broad and balanced coverage.

Feedback

Throughout the programme, written work is submitted and detailed feedback is provided.  Students submit two essays and a thesis. Informally, feedback is also provided through regular supervisions.  At the end of each term, supervisors write an on-line report which can be viewed by the student via the Cambridge Graduate Supervision Reporting System.

Assessment

Thesis

The thesis is up to 20,000 words in length and submitted at the end of August in the second year.

Where a candidate receives a provisional fail mark, an oral examination is required.

Essays

Students are required to submit two essays of 6,000-6,500 words each in their first year (one submitted in February and one at the end of August).

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Personal Reference. This is only required if you are applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.

Extra Materials

Please note: If you are applying for the 1-year full time MPhil or the 2-year part time MEd, please complete the task below.  This route is not open to PGCE-MEd applicants.

Applicants for the MPhil/MEd in Educational Research are required to submit a statement of around 1,500 words (exclusive of bibliography), addressing the following issues:

1. The topic that you propose to research

This should consist of a clear outline of the research question or questions and an analytical justification of the choice of topic on academic and educational grounds.

2. The contribution that your work will make to the field

This section should show evidence of some prior knowledge of the literature in the chosen field, and should relate the proposed research questions and objectives to a critical appraisal of gaps or issues raised in existing research.

3. The grounding provided by their previous study and experience

Applicants should comment on previous experience, e.g. Master’s study and/or professional work, and show how this experience has informed their interest in the proposed field of study.

The proposal should identify possible methods for completion and refer to methods literature where appropriate.

It is likely that in most cases the research questions and methodology will be refined and adapted during the course of the year in consultation with the supervisor. Nevertheless, the quality of this initial presentation is a very important factor in deciding whether to offer a place to an applicant.

Please upload this with your other application documents. Applications cannot be considered unless the written work has been received.

The financing studies for the Educational Research program at the University of Cambridge typically involve a range of funding options available to both domestic and international students. The university offers various scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid packages to support students throughout their studies. Applicants are encouraged to explore funding opportunities through the Cambridge Trusts, which provide scholarships based on merit and financial need. Additionally, students may be eligible for department-specific funding or departmental scholarships that are awarded on competitive basis. For international students, there are also external funding sources such as government scholarships and private foundations that support postgraduate studies in education and research-related fields.

The University of Cambridge provides detailed guidance on how to secure funding, including deadlines and eligibility criteria, to assist prospective students in planning their finances effectively. Students are advised to apply early for scholarships and financial aid, as some funding opportunities are limited and highly competitive. The cost of studying includes tuition fees, which vary depending on the student's residency status and program specifics, as well as living expenses, which can be offset by work opportunities, scholarships, and bursaries.

Students are encouraged to prepare a comprehensive financial plan and research all available funding sources well in advance of their intended start date. The university also offers information about loans and grants available through national funding agencies, which can help cover part of tuition or living costs. Furthermore, some students choose to supplement their income through part-time work, during their studies, which the university permits within prescribed limits. Overall, prospective students should consider all potential sources of funding and carefully review the university's official financial aid guidelines to ensure they can meet the financial demands of their educational research program at Cambridge.

The MSc in Educational Research at the University of Cambridge is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to conduct rigorous research in the field of education. This program is tailored for individuals who aim to understand and improve educational practices through empirical investigation, data analysis, and critical evaluation. The course curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, including research methodologies, statistical techniques, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, curriculum development, policy analysis, and evaluation methods. Students are introduced to both theoretical frameworks and practical skills necessary for high-quality research, enabling them to undertake independent projects and contribute meaningfully to educational research literature.

The program emphasizes active engagement with current debates and emerging issues in education, fostering an environment of innovation and critical thinking. Students have the opportunity to learn from world-renowned faculty members, many of whom are leading scholars in education and social sciences. The teaching approach often combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and supervised research work, providing a diverse and interactive learning experience.

Graduates of the MSc in Educational Research are well-prepared for careers in academia, policy analysis, educational consultancy, government agencies, and research organizations. They may pursue doctoral studies or apply their skills in practical settings to inform educational policy and practice reforms. The university's strong connections with schools, educational bodies, and research institutions facilitate networking and collaborative opportunities, enhancing students' professional development.

The program typically runs for one year full-time, with options for part-time study depending on the student’s circumstances. It offers rigorous training and extensive resources, including access to extensive libraries, research databases, and opportunities for fieldwork where applicable. The program also encourages students to develop their own research interests, supported by expert supervision and peer collaboration. Overall, the MSc in Educational Research at Cambridge stands out as a prestigious and highly regarded qualification for those committed to advancing education through systematic and impactful research.