Russian, Central & East European Studies (MRes)

Student testimonials

Paul Thomas Jordan (UK) MRes in Russian, Central and East European Studies, 2005-06 and PhD student 2007-11

I firmly believe that the research skills I acquired as a result of the MRes programme helped me to secure a place on the Scottish Government's Internship Scheme in 2009. Having already had experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods meant that I was able to adapt to the role with ease. I  relished my internship placement was able to experience first hand what it is like working within a busy and diverse government department. I was responsible for managing a research proposal into Scotland's Creative Industries as well as working with the division who deal with Scotland's international image. I not only found it interesting but I was also able to build upon my skills as a researcher. The MRes course provided me with the necessary skills which were crucial for the role; I was able to evaluate source material as well as assist with analysing government statistical data and facilitated focus group discussions with key stakeholders as well as further one-to-one interviews with respondents. I feel that my research skills were developed further by this experience and would recommend the programme to others.

Jack Sharples (UK) MRes in Russian, Central and East European Studies, 2007-08 and PhD student 2008-12

A great department to be part of. I’m happy to be staying for my PhD.

Holly Porteous (UK) MRes in Russian, Central and East European Studies, 2005-06 and PhD student 2007-11

The MRes program is a great asset to anyone hoping to go into research - whether in academia, the civil service or in the private sector. It gives you the basic skills needed to do plan and carry out a research project, but also equips you with a good knowledge of different approaches to gathering data, the ability to reflect on your progress as a researcher, and the opportunity to explore another culture in depth. The pilot project and thesis were really helpful stepping stones towards developing my own PhD research in Russia.

Chelsie Boyd (US) MRes in Russian, Central and East European Studies 2009-10

I chose to study the MRes Russian, Central and East European Studies because I knew the structure of the degree course would provide me with the skills employers seek such as foreign language and statistical and research methods. In addition, the reputation of the department reflected the teaching quality and ensured the degree would be strongly competitive in the job market. Throughout my course, I was given a great amount of support from the entire department. I enjoyed the ability to focus on my particular area of study while also learning about broader research techniques. While studying, I secured a placement at a social justice NGO as a research intern which helped to further develop my research skills. Having successfully completed the course, I would highly recommend the MRes degree.