Education MPhil / PhD

Staffordshire University awards a PhD to candidates who have critically investigated an approved topic resulting in an independent study, making an original contribution to knowledge. They also need to demonstrate an understanding of research methods appropriate to the chosen field, and present a written thesis which is to be defended by oral examination.
Time commitment
The minimum and maximum time periods for MPhil/PhD and PhD direct are shown below:
Route/Mode of study
MinimumMaximum
MPhil ONLY
Full-time Minimum: 18 months Maximum: 36 months
Part-time Minimum: 24 months Maximum: 48 months
MPhil/PhD
Full-time Minimum: 30 months Maximum: 48 months
Part-time Minimum: 42 months Maximum: 72 months
PhD Direct Entry
Full-time Minimum: 24 months Maximum: 48 months
Part-time Minimum: 36 months Maximum: 72 months
Full-time students
Full time students need to work at least 37 hours a week.
Blended-learning students
You are normally at Staffordshire University for four months each year and work as a full-time student in that period, as above. You will work as a part-time student for the remainder of the year and will be expected to work for at least 20 hours per week.