TURN ORIGINAL RESEARCH INTO MEANINGFUL IMPACT

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) develops advanced research expertise, critical thinking and independent inquiry, enabling you to make an original contribution to knowledge in your chosen field.

Award

PhD

Duration

Three years

Tuition Costs 2026/27

University & School of Study

Study Location(s)

Course starting dates

September, January, May

Question. Discover. Contribute.

Make your mark through research

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UWS London gives you the opportunity to undertake advanced independent research in a chosen field, developing specialist expertise and contributing original knowledge to your academic or professional discipline.

You’ll work on an original research project within your chosen area, supported by academic expertise and a wider research community. Through your research, you’ll develop advanced skills in critical thinking, research methodology, analysis, problem-solving and academic communication, while building an in-depth understanding of your specialist field.

Research opportunities span areas within Business and Creative Industries, Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences, and Education and Social Sciences. UWS research is focused on addressing real-world challenges and creating research outputs that can make a tangible contribution to society.

Studied full-time over three years, the PhD provides the opportunity to develop as an independent researcher and produce a substantial original contribution to knowledge within your chosen discipline.

Who is this course for?

This course is for graduates and professionals who want to undertake advanced research in a specialist area, develop their expertise and make an original contribution to their field. It is suited to applicants who are prepared for sustained independent research and want to develop advanced analytical, critical and research skills.

Where this degree can take you

A PhD can support progression into careers in academia, research, education and specialist professional roles across the private, public and third sectors. The advanced research, analytical, communication and problem-solving skills developed through doctoral study can also support progression into senior or research-focused roles within your chosen field.

Course Details

Original research

Make an independent contribution to knowledge through a substantial and focused programme of doctoral research.

Research expertise

Explore research opportunities across business, creative industries, computing, engineering, physical sciences, education and social sciences.

Expert supervision

Develop your research with support from experienced academics and become part of a wider research community.

Refine your research questions, methodology and project plan in collaboration with your supervisory team.

Carry out an extended programme of original research using methods appropriate to your discipline and research aims.

Present your findings in a doctoral thesis and defend your research through an oral examination.

Meet regularly with your supervisors and take part in research training, scholarly activity and professional development.

Entry Requirements

Entry to a postgraduate research degree normally requires a good Honours degree (First Class or Upper Second Class)or a postgraduate taught or research qualification in a relevant area of study.

Professional qualifications combined with extensive relevant work experience may also be considered at the discretion of the School.

Applicants with other qualifications will be considered on their individual merits and in relation to the nature and scope of their proposed research.

Applicants are also required to provide two references, including one academic reference if they have studied within the past 10 years.

These are minimum requirements and do not guarantee admission. Some PhD applicants, particularly those applying for competitive studentships, may also require a Master’s degree.

For research degrees (MRes, MPhil, PhD, DBA and DProf), applicants are required to have an IELTS score as follows:

  • Overall score of 6.5
  • No sub-test score below 6.0
  • IELTS certificates should be dated within two years at the time of applying to study at UWS

UWS also accepts a range of recognised equivalent English language qualifications.

For detailed information on English language entry requirements for international students, including accepted alternative qualifications and possible exemptions, please visit our English Language Requirements page.

Careers across Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Career Prospects

Explore the career opportunities this course can lead to. The skills and knowledge you gain can prepare you for a wide range of roles across your chosen industry and support your long-term professional development.

Our application process is simple and fast.

Our application process is simple and fast.

Ready to apply or just exploring? Follow these simple steps to begin your journey to a career-focused education in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
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