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Types of study

A postgraduate qualification could be a great next step - whether for interest, research or professional development. With our flexible study options, we can help you achieve your goals in a way that suits you.

About postgraduate study

Postgraduate study is normally the next level of study following an undergraduate degree. You'll gain more specialist knowledge of your subject at postgraduate level, it's more advanced and you’ll work at a faster pace. There are some exceptions, for example, professional development courses will accept relevant industry experience. 

Postgraduate degrees can either be taught or research-based. We offer postgraduate courses as taught master's courses or research-based courses through traditional PhDs, Doctorates and PhDs by Published Work.

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Taught postgraduate degrees

If you're looking to gain a broader skillset, boost job prospects or change career then a taught postgraduate degree might be for you. A postgraduate taught course (or Master's degree) follows a similar structure to an undergraduate degree but at an advanced level, you'll typically study subject-specific modules and submit a dissertation towards the end of your course. You'll learn through a mix of lectures, seminars and practical assignments, and be regularly assessed through exams, essays and group projects.

Research-based degrees

If you have a passion for in-depth research and want to shape the subject you love through original research, then a research-based degree might be for you. We offer Traditional PhDs, Professional Doctorates, or PhDs by Published Work. On a professional doctorate, more than half of your degree will be an independent research project, directly related to current issues in your career. On an MPhil or PhD, the entire degree is your independent, supervised research. These research degrees help getting your work published and advancing your research career.

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PhD Opportunities

Explore our available PhDs across our research themes. A wide range of projects are currently available and are offered as either fully funded scholarships or self-funded opportunities.

PhD Opportunities

Study options

We offer various study options so you can advance your postgraduate journey in a way which suits you. 

Full-time study

Full-time study is the traditional route where you'll be part of our lively campus experience. As well as attending lectures, you can make full use of a range of facilities and study spaces. You’ll have a set number of contact hours per week as well as additional independent study time.

Part-time study

Part-time study is a great option if you want to fit study around other commitments. You’ll have access to our experts and on campus facilities at the times that you attend. Your time commitment and duration of course will depend on the course intensity.

Blending learning

Blended learning is a flexible option where you’ll study through a mix of both on-campus and virtual learning, supported by independent study.

Distance learning

Distance learning allows you to study entirely online so you can fit it around your personal and work life. Lectures, course materials and support from your course leaders will all be delivered online. Study time will depend on whether the course is full or part-time, and hours spent on independent work will vary from student to student.

Enquiries

For more information on our postgraduate degrees or course timetables for part-time or blended learning courses, please contact the Enquiries team

in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021