Research degrees

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Make your mark with a research degree from UWS

Postgraduate Research degrees from University of the West of Scotland enable you to work at the cutting-edge of your industry or sector and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.

To be a successful research student you must be passionate about your subject area, with enthusiasm for research and analysis, and the motivation to manage a personal learning programme. You will have already demonstrated research aptitude in undergraduate or masters-level studies.

As a career-focused university we work with international businesses, regional enterprises, local and international education partners to ensure that UWS research drives innovation and supports the future needs of society, industry and government. This focus increases your employability and career prospects, whether you seek a career in an academic or commercial environment.

We offer research study opportunities (MRes, MPhil, PhD, DBA and DProf) across all of our subject areas and Academic Schools.

Cutting-Edge, Impactful Research

With cutting-edge facilities, specialist knowledge and world-leading and internationally excellent expertise, UWS aims to develop research outputs that have a tangible impact on society across the globe.

UWS has set the vision to be recognised as a world-leading university based on supporting excellent, relevant and purposeful research aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I

n the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025, UWS was officially recognised in the top 300 universities worldwide as assessed against the United Nations’ SDGs. UWS was recognised as the 2nd most impactful university in Scotland, and 26th globally, for 'reducing inequalities' (UN SDG 10).

Find out more about UWS and UN SDGs

Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)

In the most recent round of research assessment in the UK - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, 90 percent of research at UWS was classed as world-leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally.

The University also increased its position for research intensity, now ranking within the top 90 universities in the UK.

UWS’s REF results include an outstanding performance for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism, ranking within the top three Scottish universities in this area, with 71 percent of research recognised as world-leading or internationally excellent.

The University also saw 100 percent of its impact in Physics recognised as internationally excellent.

The results reinforce the position that UWS makes a significant contribution to economic, social, cultural, health and public policy, both internationally and within our local communities.

Find out more about UWS and REF (2021)

Connor found his place AT UWS – FIND YOURS!

Connor, PhD in Dementia Care at UWS

UWS's Impact Ranking

In the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, UWS has been ranked in the world’s top 300 universities for sustainable development and 16th in the world for impact on reducing inequalities (United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 10 - SDG10).

This demonstrates our commitment to sustainability, transforming our world and improving lives. Join us on your applied research journey and help improve the world we live in.

Explore Research at UWS

Explore the options below to start your research journey

Find out more about our research degrees (Master of Research (MRes), Master of Philosophy (MPhil), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) & Professional Doctorate (DProf).

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A postgraduate research degree from UWS provides advanced academic knowledge and skills, delivered by academic experts in a supportive and inclusive research community.

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Studentships recognise academic talent by providing a generous financial contribution towards your PhD-level studies.

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Everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research degree at UWS, including step-by-step guides, entry and English language requirements.

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90 percent of research at UWS was classed as world-leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally (REF2021).

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Find out all about undergraduate fees and funding for UK, EU and International students, including tuition fees, student loans, grants and our wide variety of scholarships.

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Search Research System

PURE is the University's research information management system and provides a single source of research information for UWS. It is used to record and manage research activity with details of research outputs, funding applications, conference contributions, external impact and staff profiles.

Research areas