Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

To earn the PhD, students must write a 100,000 word thesis on a topic defined by their research proposal under the supervision of a relevant faculty member. PhD students will read on their own topic and work closely with their supervisors to define the research and compose the thesis.

Normally, the minimum entrance requirement for admission to the PhD is a degree with Second Class Honours (Upper Division) in an appropriate field, or equivalent (e.g., 3.5/4.0 in a GPA system). It is preferable that you hold a master’s degree in the chosen area of study as well. Students are also expected to have facility in research languages requisite for the project proposed.

The PhD programme can be finished in 36 months of full-time study or 72 months of part-time study, with completed theses assessed by viva voce examination. Students are admitted to a PhD programme, subject to annual progression exercises (APEs). Distance-based students are expected to come to campus at least once a year for our annual postgraduate research conference (normally held at the end of June), or more frequently at the discretion of their supervisor. Non-UK/EU students who wish to study residentially must secure a Tier 4 student visa.