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Strengthening your research skills with MSM’s Research Methods and Skills Short Executive Programme

26-02-2026

As strong research skills are highly valued across academia, industry, and government, this course on Research Methods and Skills increases your professional competitiveness, opens new career pathways, and supports your personal development by fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. In addition, the course can be followed to strengthen your research proposal to apply for a PhD programme.

Recently, the online Short Executive Programme on Research Methods and Skills was completed by the successful defence of the research proposals by the participants. Participant Will Jacobs who is preparing for an Executive PhD focused on digital platforms and informal entrepreneurship, explains:

“As I prepare for an Executive PhD, I wanted to strengthen my methodological foundation. The programme’s structured approach to the full research cycle aligned well with my need to consolidate my research skills alongside professional responsibilities.”

He added that the experience was academically rigorous and well organised, highlighting the value of feedback: “The feedback on assignment was detailed and constructive, significantly enhancing my understanding of research design and methodological alignment.”

A key takeaway from the programme for Will was the importance of methodological coherence: “Ensuring that research questions, theoretical framing, and analytical choices are logically connected has helped me approach research design with greater clarity and precision.”

Will also highlighted the online learning environment as one of the unique aspect of the programme. “The online environment was professionally organised and easy to navigate. Tutors and supporting staff were consistently approachable and responsive, creating a supportive learning atmosphere. In addition, the interaction with peers provided useful exposure to different research contexts and perspectives.”

Would you like to join the next intake of the Research Methods and Skills programme? The next programme will run from 1 June – 25 September 2026. Click here for more information about the programme, the available scholarships and how to apply.

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