COURSE CURRICULUM

The MRes Health and Care (Nursing and Midwifery) programme provides advanced research training through a range of specialist modules designed to prepare nurses and midwives to conduct high-quality research and contribute to evidence-based healthcare practice. Core modules include Quantitative Skills for Health and Care Research, Qualitative Skills for Health and Care Research, Methods for Managing Health and Care Research, Evaluating Health and Care Interventions and an Independent Research Project for Health and Care. Students may also choose from optional modules such as Evidence Based Health and Care Practice Project and Ethical and Scientific Standards for Health and Care Research to further develop their expertise in specialist areas of research practice. A key component of the programme is the Quantitative Skills for Health and Care Research module, which develops the advanced knowledge and analytical skills required to understand, design and evaluate quantitative studies relevant to nursing and midwifery research. Students examine a wide range of research designs including randomised controlled trials, experimental methods and other quantitative approaches commonly used within health and care settings. The module explores the practical strengths and limitations of different study designs and enables students to critically appraise quantitative research evidence and its application to healthcare practice. Students gain experience in analysing and interpreting quantitative data through descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, while developing an understanding of concepts such as hypothesis testing, sampling methods, statistical power, randomisation and blinding procedures used in experimental research. The philosophical foundations of quantitative methodologies are also examined to help students understand how research paradigms influence data collection and analysis. In addition, the module develops skills in reporting research findings within scientific and professional contexts and encourages reflection on personal research development needs to support lifelong learning and professional growth. These skills prepare graduates to undertake independent research projects, improve clinical practice and contribute to innovation within nursing, midwifery and wider healthcare services.