Postgraduate qualifications : PhDs

A Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD/DPhil) is the highest academic level a student can achieve. They are very demanding and often lead to careers in academia.

Doctorate courses can be applied for by students who achieve at least a 2:1 at undergraduate level. Although you don’t necessarily need a Masters degree, it is usual practice to undertake one before a PhD, especially if funded by one of the Research Councils. A track record of academic excellence and the potential to excel in the future will play a part in whether a student is chosen for Doctorate study.

How do I get on to a PhD?

Initially you will be accepted on to a Masters of Philosophy (MPhil) and then transferred to a PhD programme. This normally happens after one or two years if you have made expected advances on the course, and any work completed at this point may go towards the PhD degree. If you don’t show enough promise to complete the full PhD, you are offered the opportunity to finish and submit the MPhil degree.

To find an MPhil or PhD that interests you, search courses and research.

What does a PhD involve?

A PhD course is carried out largely as an independent research project. You must conduct and collate original and significant research in a particular field or subject. Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, the research is normally completed over three to four years full time (each university will differ) or six years part time, with a thesis being handed in at the end of this period.

Another option available to you is the New Route PhD  (also known as an integrated PhD). You will be able to train - learning different methods of research and building on your transferable skills. This training time will be balanced alongside your own independent research.

Rather than making a major academic breakthrough or discovery, students are encouraged to share their findings and ideas with other academics throughout the course of their studies. Showing that you can research independently and honestly, critically analyse and display intellectual maturity and depth is more noteworthy than the work of Nobel prizes in this context. 

Although some Doctorates include taught components, accreditation is nearly always through an independent research project, as the core element of a PhD is research. Despite other programmes involving a mixture of research projects and teaching, the PhD is still awarded mainly on the quality of the argument that is put forward as a result of your research (thesis). This final piece will equate to around 40,000 words and be worthy of publication. The dissertation is the document that explains your thesis.

Certain subject areas, however, such as education and engineering, can be studied as Professional Doctorates. These programmes with a taught core are often favoured by those not aiming for a career in academia. Employers often provide financial support for such courses, which are usually accredited by a professional body. To find courses in your area, see Find a Professional Doctorate .

How much does it cost?

A PhD can be expensive, but funding is available in the form of scholarships and loans. Fees are usually between £3,000 and £6,000 per year. Research courses are less than taught courses, whilst a Master of Business Administration (MBA), for example, is very expensive at around £18,000 per year. Find sources of funding at funding my further study.

When thinking of studying for a PhD, you should consider a subject area that interests you. By choosing to study at a different university to where you did your previous degree, you may benefit from new academic influences.

Why should I do a PhD?

Many students who undertake a PhD do so to gain the necessary qualification to become an academic or an industry researcher. With or without funding, many PhD students often continue to carry out research, as well as teaching their subject and publishing their work. For more information about what a PhD can lead to, see your PhD, what next? 

A PhD is a long and arduous process that can take many years to complete. It will often be time consuming, life changing and shouldn’t be considered lightly.