Research Degrees

Applications are welcomed from students interested in pursuing either a full-time or part-time higher degree by research (Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) awards), who satisfy the University's entry criteria.

Studying for an MPhil or a PhD is very much an individual activity, and research topics vary widely, according to personal interests. As one of our students, we will help to nurture your interests and develop skills and insights essential to your future progress.

To assist you, we offer access to modern, well-equipped laboratories and library facilities, and are also able to support prospective students in developing their research proposals.

Length of Study

The time it takes to complete your research can vary:

MPhil, full time, should take no less than one calendar year, but normally two years. You must submit within four years
MPhil, part time, should take no less than two calendar years (time spent during this should be equivalent to no less than one year full-time). You must submit within six years
PhD, full time, should take no less than two calendar years, but normally three years. You must submit within four years
PhD, part time, should take no less than four calendar years (time spent during this should be equivalent to no less than two years-full time). You must submit within seven years

A full-time student is expected to devote the whole of his/her time to research, and can undertake other work for no more than fifteen hours per week subject to the discretion of the Head of Department.

Assessment

Research Degrees are assessed on the basis of a thesis reporting individual research, and involve a substantial research training component, provided by our Graduate School. Your thesis should be as concise as possible, with an absolute upper limit of 60,000 words for MPhil and 100,000 words for PhD, including footnotes and appendices.

Availability of Funded Places

Available vacancies for funded Research Student opportunities will be posted on the Jobs section of the University of Chester website.

Current Students

Current postgraduate students are based in (but not restricted to) the departments of :

Although research may be conducted within any of the University's academic departments, we also maintain a number of distinctive specialist research centres to support and enhance your study options.