MPhil Bournemouth University Business School

There is a vibrant research community within the Bournemouth University Business School, with experts in the areas of tourism, leisure, economics, consumer behaviour, entrepreneurship, sport, disaster management and many others working on innovative and exciting research projects. By undertaking a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) with us you can tap into this expertise as you investigate and evaluate a topic that you are passionate about.

A Master of Philosophy (MPhil) can be a precursor to a PhD, giving you two years to delve into a subject that you are passionate about. Our staff within the Business School have varied interests and specialisms, providing you with an opportunity to work with an expert in a field of research interest.

You will also be part of BU’s research community and have access to the suite of research, professional and personal training offered through the Doctoral College and your academic faculty.

The research strategy in the faculty is aligned with Bournemouth University’s 2025 vision and strategic plan; a plan that stresses real-world impact, the enrichment of society and the economy, and advancing knowledge to significantly influence challenges world-wide. The Faculty is also increasing its alignment to the institution's strategic investment areas (Sustainability; Animation, Simulation and Visualisation; Medical Science; and, Assistive Technology).

Furthermore, given the recent AACSB accreditation awarded to the BU Business School, our strategy has developed and became fully aligned to a future vision of business schools, one that challenges business schools to examine their relationship to society, to the business community, and to the higher education landscape and be seen as drivers of change. As a result, our strategy is fully aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and all research activity and knowledge advancements are punctiliously quantified against these goals.

Course details

You can be awarded a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) after critically investigating and evaluating an approved topic and demonstrating an understanding of research methods appropriate to your chosen field. You’ll be expected to present and defend a thesis and/or practical element, by viva voce (oral examination), to the satisfaction of the examiners. You can register to study for an MPhil on a full-time or part-time basis.

Careers

Undertaking a research degree will not only allow you to carry out research in a specialist field, it will also equip you with a range of transferable skills that can be applied to roles within project management, commercial research and development, or consultancy services.

You may also decide that you would like to pursue a career within academia, developing the research that you undertake during your MPhil and sharing your expertise with others who have an interest in a similar field.