MPhil/PhD Social Sciences - Part-Time

How you study

Research students can enrol for MPhil or PhD awards. These degrees are normally undertaken wholly by thesis and can be carried out either on a full-time or a part-time basis.

The School aims to provide considerable support to enable students to become independent researchers. Students are required to follow a structured pattern of activity during which their progress can be monitored and encouraged. Students are allocated two supervisors and the emphasis is on providing whatever training is required. Students are asked to contribute to the department's research seminar series, are able to apply for funding to attend conferences, and are encouraged to publish their work including in the department's Social Research Paper series and in journals.

Research students normally have two internal supervisors with specialist knowledge of Social Science and have regular meetings with them for advice, monitoring, and other support. Students can engage with external experts and advisors and can contribute to the School’s internal seminar series. Students may also have the opportunity to contribute to teaching, subject to the necessary training.

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, a significant portion of time will be spent in independent study and research. Students will meet with their academic supervisors at least once a month for full-time students, and every two months for part-time students.