University of Sunderland

What is the difference between a Research Degree and a Taught Programme?

A taught Masters Degree (normally an MA, MSc or MEd) is an award granted on the basis of a taught course offered by an institution as a common experience. A Research Degree is awarded on the basis of an individually initiated and registered research programme. The programme is built around a supervised thesis or portfolio on a substantial piece of work, which has to show evidence of originality (PhD & Dprof only) and contain material worthy of publication. It also involves an element of research training through generic courses and taught modules and/or courses.