Life Sciences (MSc by Research)
Explore our Life Sciences Master's by Research degree at Warwick
Gain hands-on experience on this practical based MSc by research, while developing an understanding of relevant research techniques. The University of Warwick's School of Life Sciences conducts world-leading interdisciplinary research, with 90% of our research rated as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent' in the REF 2021 assessment.
Course overview
An MSc by research provides an opportunity for you to spend one year full-time (two years part-time) independently conducting scientific research in an area in which you wish to specialise. You will need to identify and secure the support an academic willing to supervise you. Together with your supervisor you’ll agree your research project topic and aims.
Assessment is conducted by an extended piece of written work known as a thesis and oral examination. All students will also have access to a programme of transferrable and research skills training.
General entry requirements
Minimum requirements
2:2 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a Life Sciences related subject.
English language requirements
You can find out more about our English language requirementsLink opens in a new window. This course requires the following:
- Band A
- IELTS overall score of 6.5, minimum component scores not below 6.0.
International qualifications
We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.
For more information, please visit the international entry requirements pageLink opens in a new window.
Academic References
We typically ask for one academic reference for taught courses.
You will be asked to include an email address for your referee(s) when submitting your application and we will contact them for you.
View our guide to academic references.Link opens in a new window
Additional requirements
There are no additional entry requirements for this course.
Our research
- Cells & Development
- Environment & Ecology
- Microbiology & Infectious Disease
- Neuroscience
- Plant & Agricultural Biosciences
- Quantitative, Systems & Engineering Biology
Full details of our research interests are listed on the School of Life Sciences websiteLink opens in a new window.
Find a supervisor
You can identify potential supervisors in the area(s) that are of interest you via the Research pages on the School of Life Sciences website. The academic staff in the School welcome enquiries from potential research students, so you are advised to contact them directly. Send your research proposal or explain that you would like to discuss possible research projects with them and detail how you plan to fund your studies.
For further information, see How to ApplyLink opens in a new window.
Research proposals
A research proposal is a document explaining what you would like to research for your doctorate.
If you are applying for an advertised project, you will not be required to submit a research proposal as the broad aims and objectives of your PhD will already be defined. When applying for an advertised project, you will need to clearly list the title of the project on your application.
If you are not applying for an advertised project, you will be required to develop a research proposal in consultation with a potential supervisor.
A good PhD proposal outlines the scope and significance of your topic and explains how you plan to research it. See how to write a great PhD research proposal on the Find a PhD websiteLink opens in a new window.
See our research degree application checklistLink opens in a new window.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.
Find your research course fees
Fee Status Guidance
We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Students will be classified as Home or Overseas fee status. Your fee status determines tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available. If you receive an offer, your fee status will be clearly stated alongside the tuition fee information.
Do you need your fee classification to be reviewed?
If you believe that your fee status has been classified incorrectly, you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire. Please follow the instructions in your offer information and provide the documents needed to reassess your status.
Scholarships and funding
Scholarships and financial support
Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.
Living costs
Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.
Life Sciences at Warwick
The School of Life Sciences is a cohesive, enthusiastic community producing world-class, high-impact bioscience research and teaching within a friendly and collaborative environment. Our internationally recognised academics are engaged in innovative bioscience research, working to investigate solutions to major global challenges. With 90% of research in the School of Life Sciences rated as ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ in REF 2021, the school is a dynamic and growing place for biological sciences research.
Our range of postgraduate programmes cover key global priorities and include interdisciplinary courses with modules delivered from colleagues across the Warwick community, including the renowned Warwick Business School. Study a postgraduate degree with us to hone your subject knowledge and enable you to gain the scientific skills and business acumen to develop your future career.
As part of our postgraduate degrees, you will be taught vital transferable skills such as research techniques and management, personal effectiveness, communication, networking, teamworking and careers management, enhancing your employability. You will be supported during your studies by a dedicated Postgraduate support team and a personal tutor who work within the School of Life Sciences, and additional support is offered, if needed, for English language and data handling skills.
Find out more about us on our websiteLink opens in a new window
Our Postgraduate Taught courses
- Biotechnology, Bioprocessing and Business Management (MSc)
- Environmental Bioscience in a Changing Climate (MSc)
- Food Security (MSc)
- Medical Biotechnology and Business Management (MSc)
Our Postgraduate Research courses
How to apply checklist
Our how to apply checklist helps you prepare for your application.
I'm ready to apply
Learn more about the Applicant Portal.
Application deadlines
Applications for courses starting in September and October 2026 are now open.
For research courses that start in September and October 2026, the application deadline for students who require a visa to study in the UK is 2 August 2026. This should allow sufficient time to complete the admissions process and to obtain a visa to study in the UK.
Explore ways to connect with us
We understand how important it is to visit and explore your future university before you apply. That's why we have put together a range of online and in-person options to help you discover more about your course, visit campus, and get a sense of postgraduate life at Warwick. Our events offer includes:
- Warwick hosted events
- Postgraduate Fairs
- Live chats
- Talk and Tours
- Department events