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). These awards are assessed on the basis of a thesis reporting individual research.

In some subjects (e.g. Fine Art or Performing Arts) it may be possible to undertake a 'practice-based' MPhil or PhD, which involves the production of a body of work with a shorter thesis setting the work within an academic context.

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 expert supervision, modern, well-equipped laboratories and library facilities. There are currently around 400 postgraduate research students, based in Schools and Research Centres across the University.

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.
• DProf, part time, should take no less than four calendar years. You must submit within seven years.
• MRes, full time should take no less than one calendar year. You must submit within two years.  Part time should take no less than two years. You must submit within 6 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.

Entry Months

Our Research Degrees usually commence in October, February and May each year.

International Students

If you are an international student, view our Research Degrees open to international students. Please contact us with any queries.

A number of University of Chester research bursaries, scholarships and studentships are available each year:

• International Scholarships: Self-funding international PGR students are entitled to a £1,000 international scholarship (full time; £500 part time) as a discount off the headline fee. Sponsored students are charged the full listed fee. This applies to all PGR programmes, including Professional Doctorates.

Assessment

Research Degrees are assessed on the basis of a thesis reporting individual research. 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 Studentship Vacancies section of this website.

Please note that as departmental funding is not currently available, applicants will be expected to be self-funding, unless applying for a specific scholarship.

Research Areas

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