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The MPhil degree is offered full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months. It is designed to produce postgraduates with rigorous research and analytical skills, who are exceptionally well equipped to go on to doctoral study, postgraduate research, or employment in industry and the public sector.
Students undertake a bespoke research project, which is agreed at the application stage with their Principal Supervisor. Towards the end of their MPhil course, students produce a written thesis about their research project. Assessment for award of MPhil degree is by oral examination of the student's research thesis and their broader knowledge of their chosen area of research.
Each student is assigned a Principal Supervisor who oversees their research project and an Adviser who provides additional support. Our Postgraduate Administrator acts as the first point of contact for any student with a query or difficulty not directly related to their scientific work. All student matters in the department are overseen by our Director of Postgraduate Education and the Cancer Biology Postgraduate Education Committee.
Most research training is provided within the structure of the student’s research group and informal opportunities to develop research skills are available through mentoring by other members of staff and fellow students. Students are encouraged to attend scientific meetings, seminars and postgraduate courses relevant to their area of interest. They are also expected to participate in journal clubs and lab meetings and to take advantage of the numerous training opportunities offered by the University.
The MPhil course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge and aims to provide them with:
- the opportunity to carry out focused research in their chosen discipline, whilst under close supervision.
- the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the degree course students will have demonstrated:
- a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research.
- originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field.
- ability to critically evaluate current research, research techniques and methodologies.
- self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and an ability to act autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.
Continuing
Continuation from the MPhil to the PhD degree is possible, but not automatic. Each case is considered on an individual basis and is dependent on a number of factors, including:
- obtaining a minimum of a 'pass' in a relevant research based MPhil degree.
- evidence of progress and research potential.
- a sound research proposal.
- availability of a suitable Principal Supervisor.
- availability of resources required for the research.
- approval by the Departmental Director of Postgraduate Education, Clinical School Degree Committee, College and University Student Registry.
Open Days
The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:
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Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.
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Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.
For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.