Research degrees

About the project

Advance your career and expertise through Kingston University’s research degrees. Our research programmes offer pathways to academic, consultancy or commercial careers.

Why Kingston University is ideal for research degrees

Kingston University's research degrees offer a flexible approach to carrying out research. They allow you to study on a full-time basis or combine your research studies with employment.

We carry out a wide range of research activities, from traditional academic disciplines to more contemporary problems or developments. Our staff are highly respected in their fields. You will be working with people at the forefront of the latest thinking and practice, with access to cutting edge research facilities .

As a research student at Kingston University, you will join a strong and ambitious postgraduate community. You will receive full support through a comprehensive programme of research training, including workshops, seminars, guest lectures, symposia, and related activities organised by the research groups.

All research degrees are programmes of independent study. They culminate in the submission of a dissertation or thesis, which you will defend in a viva voce (oral) examination. The nature of the research will vary depending on the subject. Some subjects will involve extensive fieldwork or laboratory testing, while others may be more theory-based.

Masters of Science (MSc) and Arts (MA) by Research

The Masters by Research is a research degree, not a taught masters. There are no taught modules. Students have a dissertation supervisor but do not receive any teaching. It is assessed 100% by the dissertation and oral examination.

The degree involves investigation and evaluation of an approved research topic and the presentation of a dissertation. This is between 15,000 and 20,000 words long, depending on the subject discipline. It will be the subject of an oral examination, in which you will show how you have critically investigated your area of research.

The period of registration for these degrees is one year full-time or two years part-time. You will normally need a first-class or second-class honours degree, or equivalent, in a subject appropriate to the proposed field of research.

The award of MSc by Research or MA by Research is at Level 7 (postgraduate masters level). This is the same as MPhil, but is shorter and therefore only carries half the credits (180).

In exceptional circumstances, we may consider you for admission to a research degree without the conventional qualifications. If you have substantial relevant professional experience, including publications or written reports, we will consider these as a potential alternative basis for an application for admission to a research degree programme.

Please note: these programmes are not available for business-related research topics.

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

An MPhil typically takes:

You will usually need a first-class or second-class honours degree, or equivalent, in a subject relevant to your proposed research programme.

Word length for the MPhil thesis varies according to discipline. It is about 20,000 words for healthcare, science and engineering, and 40,000 for other subject areas. It will be the subject of an oral examination in which you will show how you have critically investigated your area of research.

In exceptional circumstances, we may consider you for admission to a research degree without the conventional qualifications. If you have substantial relevant professional experience, including publications or written reports, the University will consider these as a potential alternative basis for an application for admission to a research degree programme.

• two-to-three years of full-time study; or
• four-to-six years of part-time study.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD will typically take:

You will normally need a postgraduate masters degree in a subject relevant to your proposed research programme. Some subject areas may consider applicants with a first/upper second class honours degree or equivalent.

Word length for the PhD thesis varies according to discipline, and is about 40,000 words for healthcare, science and engineering, or 80,000 for other subject areas. On completion it will be the subject of an oral examination, in which you will show how you have:

Initially, your admission will be provisional and subject to formal confirmation after your first year of study.

In exceptional circumstances, we may consider you for admission to a research degree without the conventional qualifications. If you have substantial relevant professional experience, including publications or written reports, the University will consider these as a potential alternative basis for an application for admission to a research degree programme.

• three to four years of full-time study; or
• four to six years of part-time study.
• critically investigated your area of research; and
• made an independent and original contribution to knowledge.

PhD by prior publication/portfolio

A PhD by prior publication/portfolio will typically take one year. The award allows people who have not followed the traditional academic route towards a PhD to obtain academic recognition for having undertaken and produced research, and developed their research skills and subject knowledge to doctoral level.

This may include people entering higher education in mid-career, especially in practice-based disciplines. Word length for the PhD thesis varies according to discipline; it will include substantial published work and an introductory section of about 10,000 words. On completion it will be the subject of an oral examination, in which you will show how you have:

Further guidance is available in our Guidance for the Award of PhD by Prior Publication/Portfolio (see Appendix D for additional subject-specific guidance available for the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment) and should be read in conjunction with the general regulations for the University and the Academic Regulations for Research Degrees.

• critically investigated your area of research; and
• made an independent and original contribution to knowledge.

Practice-based PhD

We welcome applications from practitioners wanting to do practice-based or practice-led research. The practice may be in any field, for instance, fine art, art history, curating, design, engineering and technology, architecture, creative writing, musical composition, film, dance, and performance.

For such a research project, the thesis should reflect a coherent research process, demonstrate a critical appreciation of the context of the research, its relationship to existing literature/practices and received opinion, and show that the research has produced an original contribution to knowledge. The relationship of this reflective commentary to the other forms of material submitted must be clearly articulated so that the work forms a single coherent body, considered collectively as the thesis. Within the thesis, the balance between the reflective commentary and the creative work, publications or equivalent plus the relative weighting given to each element, must meet subject-specific requirements and be agreed by the candidate's Faculty Research Degrees Committee.

The creative work must be undertaken as part of the registered research programme, not before. If you are interested in applying for a PhD that recognises previous work, please see PhD by prior publication/portfolio.

Practice-based PhDs follow the same processes and are under the same regulations as our traditional PhD programme.

MA by Research (Educational Practice)

The MA by Research (Educational Practice) is a Level 7 (postgraduate masters level) research degree. Note that this is not a taught masters and there are no taught modules. Assessment is 100% by the dissertation and oral examination. Students have dissertation supervisors but do not receive any teaching. As well as supervision we offer a training and research methods programme delivered jointly with the Education PhD.

The Masters by Research degree involves investigation and evaluation of an approved research topic and the presentation of a 20,000 word dissertation. It will be the subject of an oral examination, in which you will show how you have critically investigated your area of research.

The period of registration for this degree is one year full-time or two years part-time. You will normally need a first-class or second-class honours degree, or equivalent, in a subject appropriate to the proposed field of research. In exceptional circumstances, we may consider you for admission to a research degree without the conventional qualifications. If you have substantial relevant professional experience, including publications or written reports, we will consider these as a potential alternative basis for an application for admission to a research degree programme.

The degree can start in October, January or March.

Please note: we cannot advise on eligibility before receiving a formal application.

Apply for an MA by Research (Educational Practice)

Education PhD

Visit the Education PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) course page to find out more.

MRes in Pharmaceutical and Chemical Research

The MRes in Pharmaceutical and Chemical Research provides you with the advanced laboratory and research skills required for your future career in the chemical and pharmaceutical science industry. This is an ideal stepping stone if you are interested in progressing onto a PhD in this subject area.

Distance learning / overseas-based research degrees

Flexible study options may be available for research degrees, allowing international students to study part-time from their home country with online supervision.

If you’re considering a distance learning degree, discuss it early with the Faculty Research Student Coordinator and your potential supervisor, as not all projects are suitable.

You may need a local supervisor on your team and confirmation of access to required resources. Depending on your subject, visits to Kingston for training, conferences, or research events may be required.

Academic IELTS language requirements

Faculty/School | Overall | Minimum

Faculty of Business and Social Sciences - School of Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences | 6.5 | 5.5 in each element

Faculty of Business and Social Sciences - Kingston Business School | 7.0 | 7.0 in writing and a minimum of 6.5 in all other elements

Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment | 6.5 | 6.0 in each element

Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and the Environment - Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry | 6.5 | 6.0 in each element

Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and the Environment - Health, Social Care and Education | 6.5 | 7.0 in writing and a minimum of 6.0 in all other elements

Kingston School of Art | 6.5 | 5.5 in each element

More information on English language requirements .

Why choose a research degree?

A research degree offers the opportunity to gain expertise in your chosen field through in-depth study and original research. In addition to paving the way for an academic career, it can enhance your employment prospects in commercial research and development, consultancy, and various roles across the public and private sectors.

How much does a research degree cost?

Tuition fees for research degrees increase each year, as shown below.

2027/28 academic year

Research degrees | Attendance | Home (£) | International (£)

MA and MSc by Research, MPhil and PhD | Full time | TBC | 18,700

Part time | TBC | 9,350

PhD by Prior Publication | Part time | TBC | 18,700

Distance Learners (excl. PhD by Prior Publication and Professional Doctorates) | Part time | TBC | 9,350

Continuation fee (one year only) | 1,000 | 1,000

Please note that for students commencing Research from September 2025 onwards, the continuation fee will be £1,000. The £200 fee will apply for students commencing prior to this date.

Home fees are subject to confirmation by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Additional bench fees may be charged for certain research programmes. Please contact the relevant faculty office for further details.

2026/27 academic year

Research degrees | Attendance | Home (£) | International (£)

MA and MSc by Research, MPhil and PhD | Full time | 5,238 | 18,000

Part time | 2,619 | 9,000

PhD by Prior Publication | Part time | 5,238 | 18,000

Distance Learners (excl. PhD by Prior Publication and Professional Doctorates) | Part time | 2,619 | 9,000

Continuation fee (one year only) | 1,000 | 1,000

Please note that for students commencing Research from September 2025 onwards, the continuation fee will be £1,000. The £200 fee will apply for students commencing prior to this date.

Additional bench fees may be charged for certain research programmes. Please contact the relevant faculty office for further details.

Research degree funding and studentships

We are pleased to offer a variety of funding opportunities to our postgraduate researchers, including prestigious studentships fully funded by UK Research and Innovation (please see the list below).

ESRC funding through the SEDarc consortium

Applications are now open for entry for ESRC funding through SEDarc .

Leverhulme Neurodiverse Futures Doctoral Scholarships

Find out more about our Leverhulme doctoral training programme aiming to transform the understanding of neurodiversity and support a new generation of researchers to tackle major global challenges through fresh perspectives and innovative ways of thinking.

Find out more about the Leverhulme Neurodiverse Futures Doctoral Scholarships >

Kingston University PhD Studentships

We are pleased to be able to offer fully-funded studentships for home students and partially-funded studentships for international students.

The studentship competition is now closed for Autumn 2026 entry .

More information on the KU Studentship application process .

Masters level loans

Masters by Research and MPhil (standalone MPhil not MPhil upgrading to PhD) students may apply for a loan of up to £12,417. Home fee paying students only. For further details please see the government's Masters Loans website .

PhD loans

Doctoral students living in England may apply for a loan of up to £29,390. Home fee paying students only. For further details please see the government's Doctoral Loans website .

Postgraduate Progression Scholarship

A 15% reduction in the tuition fees may be available for undergraduate students completing their degree at Kingston University and progressing directly to enrol on a postgraduate degree in the next academic year. For information regarding eligibility and how to apply see Postgraduate Progression Scholarship .

Kingston University Alumni Discount

We offer a 10% reduction on all postgraduate courses (including research degrees) for students who have successfully completed an undergraduate degree or a masters degree with Kingston University. For more information, see the Alumni Discount section of our postgraduate funding page.

How to apply for a research degree (PhD, MPhil, MA by Research, MSc by Research)

Follow the steps below. New students may enrol on our research degrees (PhD, MPhil, MA by Research, MSc by Research) at various points in the year, depending on arrangements within each faculty. Our induction programme runs twice a year, in October and March.

Note that incomplete applications will be rejected. All documents must be uploaded to the application, including evidence of English language qualifications if applicable.

General queries may be emailed to [email protected] . Subject specific queries should be sent to the faculties; their contact details are in the faculty sections below.

Key dates and deadlines

We don't have an application deadline for research degrees but please apply at least 3 months before your preferred starting point. International students needing a visa should allow 6 months. The admissions process for research degrees is more complex than for taught degrees and takes a lot longer.

We offer the following cohort entry points for starting your research degree:

• Kingston School of Art: October, January and March.
• Business and Social Sciences: October and March
• Engineering, Computing and the Environment: October, January and May
• Health, Science, Social Care and Education: October, January and March.

Tips for applying for a research degree at Kingston University

Here are some tips for applying for a research degree at Kingston University:

You can browse research in the faculties and access application information by using the faculty-specific links below.

• Consider whether a research degree is right for you. Vitae, the national organisation supporting researcher development, have useful advice which we recommend you read before making your decision.
• Investigate the research happening now across Kingston
• Check if we have expertise in your research area and consider who you would like to work with as your supervisor
• Work on your research proposal and application

Information for international applicants

Please see our international student pages for more detail, including:

Visas, immigration and CAS

Visa requirements, including information on visas for dependants (see the FAQs at the end of the visa page)

Country-specific information

International student finance

Step 1: Check your eligibility

To apply you must have (or expect to have):

Note that we cannot provide advice on individual qualifications prior to application.

• PhD applicants: a postgraduate masters degree or a first/upper second class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed research project. Equivalent professional experience may also be accepted.
• MA by Research, MSc by Research and MPhil applicants: a first/upper second class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed research project. Equivalent professional experience may also be accepted.
• English language requirements: if you are not from an English-speaking country and have not studied at a UK university before, you must provide proof of Academic IELTS at a minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7 (or equivalent qualification). The requirement varies by subject, so please see our English Language Requirements for further details. Our international student advice on English Language Entry Requirements has more information about the type of qualifications we can accept and where exemptions are possible. Note that an English Language qualification is valid for two years only and must be valid when your degree is due to start.

Step 2: Identify a potential supervisor

We can only supervise research projects if we have staff with supervisory capacity and expertise in the relevant subject area. Please see our staff profiles to find out more about their research. You can search by keyword as well as by department.

The following faculties require you to name the supervisor you wish to work with as part of your application. If you do not provide the name, your application will be rejected:

For this faculty, the supervisor name is not required:

• Engineering, Computing and the Environment (ECE)
• Health, Science, Social Care and Education (HSSCE)
• Business and Social Sciences (BSS)
• Kingston School of Art (KSA)

Step 3: Write a research proposal

You will need to write a research proposal to support your application. For guidance on how to put together a research proposal, please visit the faculty pages.

You may want to discuss your research proposal with potential supervisors before you submit your application.

We have a Padlet of Research Degree application resources from outside Kingston University that may be useful.

Please explore our staff profiles to find information on University staff and their research interests.

• Kingston School of Art
• Business and Social Sciences
• Health, Science, Social Care and Education
• Engineering, Computing and the Environment

Using AI when writing your application and research proposal

Kingston University values academic integrity and expects all PhD applications and research proposals to reflect the applicant’s own original thinking and intellectual work.

AI tools may be used only to support your writing process, for example: to brainstorm ideas, check clarity, or help with structure. AI must not generate substantial parts of your proposal, create your research ideas for you, or replace your own critical reading and analysis. AI tools can make errors such as incorrect claims, misinterpreted sources, or fabricated references, so you must independently verify anything they produce.

Any use of AI must be openly acknowledged in your application. You may be asked whether you used AI and, if so, to briefly explain how. Misrepresenting AI generated content as your own work is prohibited and may lead to the withdrawal of an offer or termination of registration.

Your proposal should ultimately demonstrate your understanding, judgement, and research potential. AI can support your process, but the intellectual contribution must be entirely your own.

Step 4: Apply online

See the individual faculty links below and select the right application link for the degree level, mode of attendance (full-time or part-time) and start date you wish to apply for.

Include with your application the following

• Your draft research proposal or project outline.
• Your academic transcripts and or certificates
• English language qualifications, if required
• A photograph or scan of your passport
• You may wish to attach a CV, including publications if relevant or other relevant documents, for example a portfolio of art work.
• You do not need to provide a personal statement but may do so if you wish.

Step 5: Provide references

References are not required with the application but will be required before an offer can be made. We cannot accept references or letters of recommendation with an application, they must be sent directly to us by the referee.

Who can provide a reference?

References should be from professional or academic contacts and cannot be from family members or friends. At least one reference should be from someone who knows you from your most recent academic qualification.

Ask your referees to complete the Online Reference Form .

Step 6: Attend an interview

Your application, qualifications and proposed project will be assessed by the Faculty. If suitable, you will be invited to an interview to discuss your application and project. Interviews may take place online, if appropriate.

After you have applied

If we are able to offer you a place, we will assign a first supervisor to help you develop your proposed research into a practical project and to agree a programme of research training.

For more information you can download Interview Guidance for Research Degree Applicants and our Postgraduate Researcher Handbook from our research policies and guidance page .

Pre-enrolment information

Induction takes place in late September and early March each year. Your faculty will send you details by email.

Once you have an offer, we recommend you:

• Read through our Postgraduate Research Handbook which you can download from our research policies and guidance page .
• Read about the Researcher Development Framework , a professional development tool developed by Vitae
• Join our LinkedIn group

After enrolment

Once you have enrolled and attended the induction program, you will gain access to My Kingston (the student intranet) and the Graduate Research School Canvas module.

There you will find additional information and resources, including details of the Graduate Research Structured Programme. All handouts and materials from the induction sessions will also be available on Canvas.

Frequently-asked questions about application

Please read our ' how to apply ' information carefully. If you have a query that is not covered on the website, please email [email protected]

When is the deadline to apply?

We do not have a strict deadline, but please allow at least 3 months before the start date . International students needing an ATAS certificate and/or CAS approval should allow 6 months.

Do I need to find a supervisor before I apply?

Yes, you should identify who you hope with, and include their name on your application. Please read Step 2: How to apply for a research degree .

What English language certificates do you accept?

Find out more about our English language entry requirements . The language qualification must be included with your application; it cannot be provided later.

Can you check my research proposal?

No, we can’t assess your proposal before you submit your application, but you will have the opportunity to revise it after discussion with your supervisor.

Will you accept my qualification?

We cannot advise on individual qualifications. Please see the entry requirements for each degree.

Is this degree eligible for a dependants visa?

For more information, see Visa requirements, including information on visas for dependants (see the FAQs at the end of the visa page).

Can I study full-time and/or part-time?

Yes, we offer research degrees full-time and part-time. Students requiring a student visa will need to be full-time.

Can I study and stay in my home country?

If your project is suitable this may be possible. Discuss this with your supervisor.

Can you accept my existing Letters of Recommendation or do they need to be new?

We can only accept references sent direct to us by the referee. We cannot accept references / letters of recommendation provided by an applicant.

See Step 5 How to apply for a Research Degree

Is full funding available for International students?

Any available funding is advertised on the University website throughout the year. International PhD applicants may apply for a KU Studentship but it does not cover the full international tuition fee.

Is funding available for the Masters by Research?

No, we only offer funding for the PhD programme.

Does the tuition fee stay the same each year of the degree programme?

No, tuition fees increase each year.

Can I pay my fees in instalments?

Please read Payment options for international students and Payment options for Home students .

What are the attendance requirements?

This depends on the subject area. Some research projects require daily attendance in a laboratory, others require desk-based study that can be from home. All full-time students are expected to meet with their supervisors at least monthly.

Apply now via the relevant faculty

The online application links for our research degrees are listed by faculty (use the links below). Queries may be emailed to the relevant faculty using the addresses included with each faculty listing.

Kingston School of Art

Kingston School of Art includes illustration, graphic design, fashion and sustainable design; architecture, landscape and environment; critical and historical studies; contemporary art; film and photography; creative writing, English language and literature; dance, music, theatre and performance; journalism and media. See research degrees available in Kingston School of Art

Faculty of Business and Social Sciences

This faculty includes: business, management (including healthcare management, leadership, and decision making), finance, accounting, marketing, economics, law, international relations, psychology. See research degrees available in the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences

Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment

This faculty includes: civil engineering and construction; earth and environmental and social sciences; energy technologies; fire and fluid dynamics; ground and aerospace transportation engineering; medical engineering; nano-materials and composites; electronic engineering and robotics; communications; computer vision; cyber security; artificial intelligence; software engineering; quantum computing. See research degrees available in the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment

Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education

This faculty includes: nursing, midwifery, life sciences, pharmacy, chemistry, social work and social care, and education. See research degrees available in the Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education

Research degrees in Kingston School of Art

We offer MA by Research, MPhil and PhD degrees across the range of research areas within the Faculty.

As a research student at Kingston University you will become part of a strong and ambitious postgraduate community. You will be fully supported by a rich programme of research training, including research workshops, seminars, guest lectures, symposia, and related activities organised through the research centres.

We have more than 250 postgraduate researchers across the Faculty. Several have successfully secured prestigious AHRC postgraduate studentships through TECHNE or LDoc, overseas government studentships, industry or employer sponsorship, or University or Kingston School of Art scholarships.

Visit Kingston School of Art's research pages for more information.

For enquiries, please contact the research student coordinator: [email protected]

To apply, please ensure you select the exact qualification, start date and mode of attendance:

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance – MA by Research (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MA by Research (January 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning – MA by Research (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – MA by Research (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MA by Research (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MA by Research (March 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning – MA by Research (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – MA by Research (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MA by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MA by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning - MA by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning - MA by Research (October 2027)

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil (October 2027)

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (March 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning (four years) – MPhil/PhD (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning (four years) – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning (eight years) – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for part-time attendance - PhD by prior publication/portfolio (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for part-time attendance - PhD by prior publication/portfolio (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

Special arrangements are in place for this route. Please refer to the PhD by prior publication/portfolio guidelines in our research policies and guidelines and contact the faculty to discuss your proposal.

• Apply for part-time attendance - PhD by prior publication/portfolio (October 2027)

PhD funding opportunities

TECHNE, comprising nine universities, offers up to 60 annual doctoral awards in arts and humanities via the open competition and the Collaborative Doctoral Award route. It provides training and partnerships to prepare scholars for academic, public, or professional careers. TECHNE is one of the 10 Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Doctoral Training Partnerships. Its students benefit from a diverse and rich range of training workshops and opportunities to engage with partners in the arts and cultural sector.

The open competition includes those who are applying initially as an MPhil student with the intention to upgrade to PhD study.

TECHNE welcomes both interdisciplinary research proposals and those focused within traditional discipline areas.

Students may apply to TECHNE for a doctoral award by submitting a TECHNE application through Kingston University. It is not possible to submit an application directly to TECHNE: you must apply through one of the member universities.

Research degrees in the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences

The Faculty offers research degrees across a range of subject areas.

• For more specific information, visit the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences' research pages
• For enquiries, email the research student coordinator
• To apply, ensure you select the exact qualification, start date and mode of attendance using the links below:

MSc by Research (Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences)

Please note this is not available for business research subjects.

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MSc by Research (March 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning – MSc by Research (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – MSc by Research (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MSc by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning – MSc by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – MSc by Research (October 2027)

MPhil (Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences)

Please note this is not available for business research subjects.

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance - MPhil (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance - MPhil (October 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for part-time distance learning – PhD Business and Social Sciences (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for part-time distance learning – PhD Business and Social Sciences (October 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD Law and Social and Behavioural Sciences (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD Law and Social and Behavioural Sciences (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD Law and Social and Behavioural Sciences (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD Law and Social and Behavioural Sciences (October 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – Business and Management PhD (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – Business and Management PhD (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – Business and Management PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – Business and Management PhD (October 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time distance learning – Law PhD (March 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – PhD by prior publication (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – PhD by prior publication (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – PhD by prior publication (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

Special arrangements are in place for this route. Please refer to the PhD by prior publication/portfolio guidelines in our research policies and guidelines and contact the faculty to discuss your proposal.

• Apply for full-time attendance – PhD by prior publication (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – PhD by prior publication (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – PhD by prior publication (October 2027)

Research degrees in the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment

The Faculty offers three research degrees: MSc by Research, MPhil and PhD. Research areas covered by the Faculty include environmental change, geological and crustal processes, fire and explosion studies, computer vision and machine learning, molecular electronics and photonics, construction materials and sustainable technology, and mobile information and network technologies.

There are around 100 research students across the Faculty. Many have successfully secured studentships, industry sponsorship or University and Faculty funding. Opportunities for funding for research degrees are advertised on these pages when they become available.

Visit the Faculty's research pages for more information.

For enquiries, please contact the research student coordinator: [email protected]

To apply, please ensure you select the exact qualification, start date and mode of attendance:

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance – MSc by Research (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MSc by Research (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning - MSc by Research (January 2027)

Start date: May 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MSc by Research (May 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MSc by Research (May 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning - MSc by Research (May 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MSc by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MSc by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning - MSc by Research (October 2027)

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning (six years) – MPhil (January 2027)

Start date: May 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil (May 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil (May 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning (six years) – MPhil (May 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning (six years) – MPhil (October 2027)

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning (eight years) – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)

Start date: May 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (May 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (May 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning (eight years) – MPhil/PhD (May 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning (eight years) – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)

PhD by prior publication/portfolio

Special arrangements are in place for this route. Please refer to the PhD by prior publication/portfolio guidelines in our research policies and guidelines and contact the faculty to discuss your proposal.

Research degrees in the Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education

There are around 100 research students across the Faculty. Many have successfully secured studentships, industry sponsorship or University and Faculty funding. Opportunities for funding for research degrees are advertised on these webpages when they become available.

Visit the Faculty's research pages for more information.

For enquiries, please contact the research student coordinator: [email protected]

To apply, please ensure you select the exact qualification, start date and mode of attendance:

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance – MSc by Research (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MSc by Research (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MSc by Research (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MSc by Research (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MSc by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MSc by Research (October 2027)

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance – MA by Research (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MA by Research (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MA by Research (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MA by Research (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MA by Research (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MA by Research (October 2027)

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance - MPhil (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance - MPhil (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance - MPhil (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance - MPhil (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance - MPhil (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance - MPhil (October 2027)

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – MPhil/PhD (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (March 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning – MPhil/PhD (March 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – MPhil/PhD (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

• Apply for full-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time attendance – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for full-time distance learning – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)
• Apply for part-time distance learning – MPhil/PhD (October 2027)

Education (PhD)

Visit the Education PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) course page to find out more.

Start date: January 2027

International students: Applications for January 2027 entry are now closed for international students.

• Health and social care sciences: Apply for part-time attendance - PhD by publication (January 2027)
• Health, science, social care and education: Apply for part-time distance learning - PhD by publication (January 2027)

Start date: March 2027

• Health and social care sciences: Apply for part-time attendance - PhD by publication (March 2027)

Start date: October 2027

Special arrangements are in place for this route. Please refer to the PhD by prior publication/portfolio guidelines in our research policies and guidelines and contact the faculty to discuss your proposal.

• Health and social care sciences: Apply for part-time attendance - PhD by publication (October 2027)

Research areas