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Research Master's in the USA: MS and MA Routes
If you are looking for a Master of Research in the USA, search for research master's programmes using the university's own degree names. A research MS or MA may be relevant; the curriculum and thesis requirements matter more than the label.
Find the research degree within the graduate school
Cornell's Graduate School lists MS and MA qualifications among its research degrees, while distinguishing them from professional programmes. Its thesis guidance requires a thesis for those research master's degrees. This is a useful example of why searching only for the term MRes can miss relevant options.
For each US department, establish whether the programme admits students to a standalone master's, a joint route or a doctoral programme. Do not assume that a master's qualification awarded during PhD study is open to separate applicants.
Official sources: Cornell: research and professional degrees · Cornell: thesis requirements
What to check before applying
- Confirm that the specific track includes a thesis and offers research in your intended area.
- Check how advisers are selected and whether faculty contact is encouraged before applying.
- Prepare the required academic statement, CV and references; check whether a writing sample, proposal or test result is requested.
- Read the department's funding policy for master's students, rather than applying its PhD funding promise to another degree.
Assistantships need a written funding offer
Cornell states that financial assistance for its research master's programmes is limited and varies by programme. An assistantship may be one funding route, but admission alone does not confirm an award.
For any offer, ask about tuition remission, stipend duration, summer support, fees, insurance and teaching or research duties. Compare the written support with the programme's full costs before calling it fully funded.
Official sources: Cornell: financial support by degree
How PhD Success Academy supports your application
We review your academic record and research interests, narrow the programme shortlist, and check the required supervision and funding steps. We then help you prepare an academic CV, research statement or proposal, and the documents requested by your chosen university.
Use our academic CV guide and research proposal guide to prepare. If your profile is ready for doctoral study, explore fully funded PhD options in the USA. You can also compare research-study destinations or read our application support process.
Questions about research study in the USA
Is an MS always a research master's?
No single label settles that question. Review the specific university's thesis, project and coursework options, then confirm which track accepts your application.
Can I use a university's PhD funding guarantee for its master's programme?
Only if the published terms explicitly cover that master's programme. Read the master's funding policy and your own offer separately.
Programme and funding guidance checked on 9 September 2026. Confirm current requirements on the official university pages before applying.
Discuss your Master of Research plans
Share your current qualification, subject and preferred research direction. Our team will review your profile before advising on the next step.
Please share only the information needed for your enquiry. Further academic documents can be requested after the initial review.
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