MRes Engaged Research

The MRes in Engaged Research is built around a live, client-engaged project in an organisational or public service setting. The MRes in Engaged Research is a 180-credit Level 7 programme organised around one coherent research journey: from initial problem framing and scoping, through research design and ethics, to implementation, analysis and dissemination. The programme combines advanced research preparation with a substantial project developed and delivered with a client organisation or public service partner. The client/partner relationship is embedded from the beginning rather than added only at dissertation stage. Rooted in engaged scholarship and relational research traditions, this programme equips you with the skills to design, conduct and lead co‑produced research that generates meaningful public value. Across 12 months (full‑time), you will undertake a live, client‑based Independent Research Project, supported through dual supervision and a structured engagement model. You will explore your role and responsibilities as an engaged researcher, learn to navigate complex ethical environments, and develop the methodological expertise needed to deliver high‑quality applied research in organisational and public service contexts. This programme is ideal for early‑career researchers, practitioners seeking to develop research capability, and those aiming to progress into applied research roles in higher education, public services, consultancy, or policy environments. Programme Aim The MRes in Engaged Research aims to: Provide a pathway for engaged and relational research in organisations and public services, grounded in Boyer, Van de Ven and relational inquiry models Establish a client‑focused engagement model supported by a tripartite Client Engagement Agreement Equip students with advanced skills in research design and methods, including qualitative, quantitative, participatory, arts-based, AI-enabled, and relational approaches Align research projects with both academic expectations and applied outputs for use in client organisations Enable students to understand and critically reflect on their positionality, ethics, and identity as engaged researchers What is Engaged Research? Across the programme, students critically consider power, knowledge, positionality and whose perspectives are prioritised. They are expected to consider the implications of research design, conduct and findings for different groups within and beyond the client organisation or public service context. The programme treats engaged research as a collaborative process with a client organisation or public service partner. Students identify and define a practice-based research problem that brings together relevant theory, organisational or public service context, partner priorities, and potential contributions to organisational learning or public value. Ethics, governance, data protection, power, language and positionality are considered from the design stage.

You will need: Home Qualification requirements Undergraduate degree 1. Honours degree (2:2) or an equivalent professional qualification or substantial relevant work experience. 2. Non-standard entry and Recognition of Prior (Experiential) Learning [RP(E)L] In line with LJMU’s Admissions Policy and RP(E)L regulations, applications are welcomed from experienced professionals who do not meet the standard academic entry requirements, including those who do not hold a first degree, where they can demonstrate: § Substantial and relevant professional experience in applied/engaged research, evaluation, organisational development, or related practice; and § Evidence of ability to work at Level 7 (for example, through reports, publications, project documentation, or other analytical writing). Such applicants will be considered under LJMU’s Recognition of Prior (Experiential) Learning procedures. They may be asked to: § Submit a portfolio of evidence mapping their experiential learning to the knowledge and skills typically obtained through an honour’s degree, § Attend an interview to discuss their experience, research interests, and readiness for an MRes in Engaged Research. All non-standard/RP(E)L admissions decisions will be made on an individual basis, in accordance with University policy on postgraduate admissions and RP(E)L. English language requirements Where English is not the applicant’s first language, they must demonstrate proficiency in English at a level equivalent to IELTS 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each component) or another LJMU-approved qualification. Further information Extra Requirements All applicants will be required to attend an interview as part of the entry requirements. Find your country Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check. How to apply Securing your place at LJMU To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU online application form. You will need to provide details of previous qualifications and a personal statement outlining why you wish to study this programme.

IELTS 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each component) or another LJMU-approved qualification

International students: £8,730 per year

UK students: £8,730 per year

UK/Home: £8,730 per year

International: £8,730 per year

September

• Liverpool John Moores University, Mount Pleasant Campus, Liverpool, United Kingdom