Entry requirements

To study for an MPhil or MPhil/PhD you should have, or expect to obtain, a minimum 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject. If you are applying for a PhD direct you must:

have a Masters degree with a research dissertation in a relevant subject
have undertaken research training directly related to the PhD project

If you have alternative qualifications, your application will be considered on merit. Appropriate research and previous experience will be taken into account.

Months of entry

January, December, November, October, September, August, July, June, May, April, March, February

Course content

Fascinating postgraduate research opportunities await at LJMU’s Astrophysics Research Institute - one of the world's leading authorities in Astronomy and Astrophysics. Join us to work alongside leading experts and access state-of-the-art facilities.

Study full or part time
Complete your research degree (MPhil/PhD) in an Institute known for its internationally-acclaimed research
Explore scholarship opportunities
Benefit from expert supervision and researcher training
Enjoy excellent facilities and great employment connections

Supervision for the degrees of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is available from world-leading experts, in the following subject areas:

Astrophysics including studies in Star Formation; Stellar Evolution and Stellar Populations
Time-Domain Astrophysics (particularly novae, supernovae and gamma-ray bursts)
Galaxy Formation, Dynamics and Evolution (including AGN)
Galaxy Clusters and Large Scale Structures

The programme route you undertake will depend on your qualifications and experience. Most of our students initially register for MPhil/PhD and go on to complete their PhD via successful progression from MPhil.

You can study for an MPhil full time over one or two years or part time over two to four years. Progressing from an MPhil (and including MPhil registration), you can study for a PhD full time over 33 to 48 months or part time over 45 to 84 months. If you are taking a direct route PhD, you can study full time over two to three years or part time over three to six years.

On joining LJMU you will be allocated up to three supervisors (including a Director of Studies) who will work with you during your studies. Progression monitoring is undertaken formally and informally by this team on an ongoing basis.

Each year, each Faculty provides the University Research Degrees Committee with a summative report on the progress of all its eligible postgraduate research students.

Throughout your studies, you will also have the support of LJMU’s Graduate School which offers expert advice and guidance to those enrolled on MPhil and PhD programmes.

Information for international students

LJMU will be awarding a range of generous international scholarships for students enrolling at the University in September. Please contact LJMU’s International Team by visiting our website for more information and advice.

Fees and funding

Securing funding can be one of the main hurdles you face when considering postgraduate research. However, help is available. LJMU has a team of fees and funding experts who can offer advice based on your personal circumstances. You can contact them on 0151 904 6056/6057 or via studentadvice@ljmu.ac.uk.

You may also wish to contact the Astrophysics Research Institute direct about locally available funding opportunities.

Qualification and course duration

PhD

full time

36 months

part time

60 months

Course contact details

Name: Course Enquiries
Email: courses@ljmu.ac.uk

Phone: 0151 231 5090

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