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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

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The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the University's principal research degree for graduate students and is available in all faculties and departments.

A Cambridge PhD is intellectually demanding and you will need to have a high level of attainment and motivation to pursue this programme of advanced study and research.

In most faculties, a candidate is expected to have completed one year of postgraduate study, normally on a research preparation master's course, prior to starting a PhD.

Completion normally requires three or four years of full-time study, or at least five years of part-time study, including a probationary period.

Terms of research are normally consecutive and, for full-time students, require residency in Cambridge. Not all departments offer part-time research degrees.

Various routes to the PhD are possible and, if you are made an offer of admission, it will be made clear whether you are required to study for a master's degree or certificate in the first instance, or will be admitted directly to the probationary year for the PhD. You are registered for the PhD only after a satisfactory progress assessment at the end of the probationary year (five terms for part-time degrees). The assessment is designed also to focus your mind on the stages necessary for the completion of your research within the normal time limit and to address any structural problems that have arisen during the first year. Students must pass the first year assessment in order to continue their PhD study.

During your PhD, your effort will be focused on writing a dissertation. The word count of the dissertation is dependent on the department and the Student Registry or Educational Student Policy will be able to tell you the maximum word limit. This must represent a significant contribution to learning, for example through the discovery of new knowledge, the connection of previously unrelated facts, the development of a new theory, or the revision of older views, and must take account of previously published work on the subject. Some Cambridge dissertations go on to form the basis of significant publications.

Although you will spend long hours working independently, your department and College will both support you throughout your PhD. You are also able to attend regular seminars in your subject area and could be involved in teaching, perhaps giving seminars or supervising, or in the social life of your department and College.

PhD course search

Go to the Course Directory and filter courses using the relevant checkboxes.

Term Information

Fee terms 9 terms
Research terms 9 terms
Thesis terms 12 terms
Fee terms 15 terms
Research terms 15 terms
Thesis terms 21 terms

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5 routes to getting a Doctorate

While most of those studying for a PhD take the PhD by thesis pathway, there are five viable routes to achieving a Doctorate, with both full-time and part-time options available

PhD by thesis

This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal .

A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions. For instance, the University of Glasgow's College of Social Sciences expects a thesis to be 70,000 to 100,000 words including references, bibliography and appendices, while the University of Cambridge has set an upper limit of 80,000 words.

Once completed, you'll need to defend your PhD thesis in front of a panel of examiners during your viva voce .

Doctorate by publication

This route involves submitting previously published work - such as books, book chapters and journal articles, which together form a coherent body of work and show evidence of an original contribution to a particular field of study.

The PhD by publication route is often taken by mid-career academics that haven't had the opportunity to undertake a standard Doctorate degree.

Generally, a minimum of five to eight published pieces are required, but this varies between institutions and depends on their length. The published work will be assessed to the same rigorous standards as a traditional PhD by thesis.

You must also provide a written supporting statement, which typically ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 words.

For instance, the University of Westminster asks for a commentary of 5,000 words (science and technology subjects) or 10,000 words (arts, social sciences and humanities). On the other hand, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh requires 12,000 to 15,000 words on the rationale and theoretical context for the portfolio of published work.

The work will then be presented to an academic committee. A supervisor will assist you with selecting which publications to submit, as well as guidance on the supporting statement.

Some universities accept only their own graduates for a PhD by publication, while others restrict this route to their academic staff. In general, you should have graduated from your first degree at least seven years ago to be eligible.

For example, The University of Manchester has published its own Guidance for the PhD By Published Work , with eligibility only extending to current members of staff.

Professional Doctorate

This type of Doctorate includes a significant taught component and a smaller research project, and is geared primarily towards current professionals in vocational sectors such as:

  • engineering and manufacturing
  • teaching and education .

Professional Doctorates are often taken on a part-time basis and can last between two and eight years. Like their standard PhD counterparts, they usually begin in October or January.

While you won't typically be looking to get an academic job , your research is expected to contribute to theory as well as professional practice. Projects often revolve around a real-life issue that affects your employer.

Several professional Doctorates, such as the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), are accredited by a professional body - for instance, the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and The British Psychological Society (BPS) - and may also lead to a professional qualification .

Common titles for graduates of professional Doctorate degrees include:

  • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
  • Doctor of Education (EdD)
  • Doctor of Engineering (EngD)
  • Doctor of Medicine (MD).

Unlike many professional Doctorates, the EngD is typically offered as a full-time course and is aimed at young engineering graduates with little or no professional experience.

Integrated PhD

This four-year qualification, also known as the New Route PhD, involves studying a one-year research Masters degree (MRes) before progressing onto a three-year PhD.

Offered by a select number of universities across the UK, integrated PhDs are supported by the government and the British Council through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) .

Visit Research Council funding for further information on research and funding for different types of PhD.

The integrated PhD involves a combination of taught materials, practical experience and advanced research. This allows you to learn subject-specific methodologies, while building the transferable skills that will enable you to become a leader in your chosen profession.

Institutions can also develop personalised integrated PhD programmes to meet each student's needs. For example, universities may offer you the opportunity to gain a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education - perfect if you're considering a career as a higher education lecturer .

Online/distance learning PhD

As PhDs are based primarily on independent research rather than time spent in lectures and seminars, distance learning has always been a viable route for many Doctoral students.

PhDs by distance learning offered by course providers such as The Open University are therefore a good option to consider if you've got family or work commitments or are an international student - as this gives you the chance to undertake Doctoral research without having to live close to your chosen institution. It's also a suitable mode of study if your subject requires you to be based in a specific location away from the university.

For the most part, you'll be in touch with your supervisor by phone, email or Skype/Zoom. You'll need to bear in mind that even if you opt for this form of research, you'll generally still need to attend university for one or two weeks of each academic year for meetings and to receive research skills training. Your final exam may be undertaken either face-to-face or virtually.

With online PhDs, you can usually register as a full or part-time student. The level of fees you pay varies between institutions - some charge the same as for a standard PhD while others offer a reduced rate.

Check that any funding you plan to apply for is available to distance learning students, as this isn't always the case.

Search for online/distance learning PhDs .

Find out more

  • Discover what is a PhD?
  • Sort out funding for postgraduate study .
  • Consider what to do after completing your PhD .

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  • Study Options in the UK
  • PhD and Research Degrees

PhD Study in the UK

What is a phd.

A PhD is a research degree and is the highest award available at universities in the UK. The study is based on a substantial research project on an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis, which then must be defended in an oral examination in front of a panel of experts. Students are assigned a supervisor, and a PhD duration is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, so students are expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule.

PhD Eligibility

UK universities are free to admit anyone, with PhD admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours and a master's degree . English language ability must be proved; a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 is generally required.

PhD Research Proposal

All students who apply for a PhD must submit a research proposal ( example ). The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your programme can begin.

Other types of Research Degree

Mphil (master of philosophy).

If you wish to study for a PhD, you may first need to begin an MPhil and then transfer to a PhD programme after 12-18 months. An MPhil is also a qualification in its own right and is generally thesis-only, lasting one year full-time and two years part-time. The thesis must present the results of a study and research and be a maximum of 60,000 words.

Students choose to study an MPhil if the proposed research has insufficient scope for a full PhD.

MRes (Master of Research)

An MRes is an advanced postgraduate research degree in the areas of art, humanities, and social sciences. Some Ph.D. Programs require an MRes qualification before beginning a PhD. The programme proper, and the student is required to complete a 40,000-word dissertation.

An MRes is a good way to see if you enjoy conducting research without fully committing to and funding a full PhD.

Professional Doctorate

Professional doctorates are similar to PhDs but are intended to advance professional practice rather than improve academic ability. Joint professional doctorates include law, education, business, engineering, and medicine.

How long does a PhD last?

A PhD in the UK usually takes three to four years if you study full-time. However, it can vary depending on the subject and how quickly you make progress. If you study part-time, it may take longer, typically five to seven years.

How much does a PhD cost?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive, with EU students paying up to £6,000 per year, and international students more.

It is rare for a PhD student to not be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship  though, and many universities and research councils provide monetary support for part or all of a PhD programme.

PhD admission - how do I apply?

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, you will need to fill out several documents required when submitting your application. They can include:

  • Academic transcripts
  • Academic references
  • Personal statement
  • Research proposal ( example )

Students will also need to identify a supervisor who will oversee their PhD.

Top PhD Programmes in the UK

- university of oxford.

The DPhil in Computer Science at Oxford University offers students the chance to do advanced research in a beautiful setting. You can study topics like linguistics, biology, medicine, and quantum computation alongside computer science, get one-on-one guidance from experienced supervisors, attend lectures, and gain transferable skills.

  • Popular PhD course: DPhil in Computer Science
  • Entry requirements: A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a four-year undergraduate degree (equivalent to a master's degree) in a relevant subject, or a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a three-year BSc/BA degree and a master's degree with merit or distinction in a relevant subject.
  • International fee: £29,700

- University of Cambridge

The PhD in Computer Science at Cambridge University is research-focused. Students work on their research projects under the guidance of a supervisor for three to four years. When admitted, students undergo a probationary period and are registered for the Certificate of Postgraduate Study (CPGS).

  • Popular PhD courses: PhD in Computer Science
  • Entry requirements: A UK First class Honours Degree or international equivalent. Additionally, having a master's-level degree or equivalent postgraduate work is highly desirable. 
  • International fee: £35,673

- Imperial College London

The Imperial College Business School offers a Master's in Research (MRes) that introduces students to theory and research methods in Finance, Economics, and Management, providing a solid foundation for future doctoral studies. Depending on the chosen research area, the MRes programme can be completed in one or two years.

  • Popular PhD course: One year Master’s in Research
  • Entry requirements: A high academic standing (such as a distinction or merit), or a first-class or upper second-class honours undergraduate degree.
  • International fee: £17,500

- University College London

The Management MRes + MPhil/PhD programme at UCL School of Management offers a prestigious research experience for students seeking scholarly careers in management studies. With a strong reputation for world-leading research, the programme provides rigorous academic training and personalised research mentorship.

  • Popular PhD course: Management MRes + MPhil/PhD
  • Entry requirements: A first-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an equivalent overseas qualification. UCL encourages applicants from various disciplines to apply and requires them to have taken the GMAT or GRE General Test.
  • International fee: £29,000

- University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh’s PhD in Informatics focuses on training researchers with comprehensive knowledge in their discipline and a specialised area. During the first year, you will attend relevant lectures, submit a thesis proposal, and receive annual progress reviews. Successful completion of a thesis and oral examination leads to the award of a doctorate. Regular talks and seminars provide additional learning opportunities.

  • Popular PhD course: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Informatics
  • Entry requirements: A degree in an Informatics-related field like Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Science, or Computer Science. Proficiency in computer programming is required. 

Study a PhD in the UK

If you are interested in studying for a research degree in the UK, arrange a free consultation today. The PhD Service  can also help you apply with expert application advice, interview practice and research proposal editing.

PhD Admission FAQ

Is a phd fully funded in the uk for international students.

PhD funding for international students in the UK varies. Some universities offer full funding, while others require students to find funding. Scholarships, grants, and assistantships are available, but not all PhD programmes are fully funded.

What are the requirements for studying for a PhD in the UK?

To study for a PhD in the UK, you generally need a master's degree or an equivalent qualification in a related field. You'll also need to write a detailed research proposal explaining your research objectives and academic references that assess your research abilities. Additionally, you must secure funding to cover your tuition fees and living expenses, which can come from scholarships, grants, personal funds, or sponsorship. Requirements may vary, so it's best to check with individual universities.

Can international students apply for a PhD in the UK?

international students can apply for a PhD in the UK. UK universities accept applications from students worldwide. 

How much does a PhD cost for international students in the UK?

PhD tuition fees for international students in the UK depend on factors such as the university, field of study, and location. On average, fees range from £15,000 to £35,000 per year. However, it's important to note that actual fees can vary significantly .

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PhD Education / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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  • Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and
  • Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 60% or above, a minimum mark of 60% in your dissertation (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Deadlines

For consideration in internal funding competitions, you must submit your completed application by 19 January 2024.

If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self-funding, you must submit your application before the below deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after this date has passed.

  • For September 2024 entry: 30 June 2024

Programme options

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Programme overview

  • 2nd in the UK for Education (Complete University Guide 2024).  
  • The University of Manchester was ranked in the top 10 in the UK for Education research (overall GPA, REF2021).
  • Learn with research-active experts in the field of education and work with highly diverse cohorts of students and staff.
  • Contribute to improvements in the overall wellbeing of students, their families and communities throughout the world through research.

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The University holds regular open days, where you will have the opportunity to tour the campus and find out more about our facilities and programmes. On this day, you will find out more about the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED) and meet academic and admissions staff who will be able to answer any questions you have.

For more information, see Open days.

We will be conducting our PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

  • PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
  • PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Your fees will cover the cost of your study at the University, as well as charges for registration, tuition, supervision, examinations and graduation (excluding graduation robe hire).

Payment of tuition fees will also entitle you to membership of The University of Manchester library, the Students' Union and the Athletic Union.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered. The deadline for most internal competitions, including School of Environment, Education and Development studentships is 19 January 2024.

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting the funding application form and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

  • ESRC North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • School of Environment, Education and Development Postgraduate Research Studentships 2024 Entry - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)
  • President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
  • Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
  • School of Environment, Education and Development Enhancing Racial Equality (SERE) Studentship - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

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The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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PhD by Distance

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Our PhD by Distance programme allows you to benefit from our world-class support and the expertise of a Reading-based supervisor, while conducting your research in a location that suits your circumstances. 

The programme is available to candidates who need to study for most of their registration period at another site, whether in the UK, or worldwide. Acceptance for PhD by Distance is subject to the approval of the supervisors and the Dean of Postgraduate Research Studies and Researcher Development.

There are several reasons why you may wish to base yourself away from the University of Reading while undertaking your PhD:

  • the nature of your research project requires substantial access to resources and facilities located away from Reading
  • you have employment commitments relevant to your research that prevent you from being based in Reading
  • your PhD project has been agreed as part of a specific partnership/sponsorship arrangement.

You can choose to complete a PhD by Distance programme on either a part-time or full-time basis.

Please email [email protected]   for details.

What the programme offers

On the PhD by Distance programme, you will benefit from:

  • supervision from one or more leading University of Reading academics, working at the forefront of their field
  • access to a range of high-quality training, delivered on campus or online 
  • access to extensive online Library resources
  • a reduced tuition fee  set at half the standard full- or part-time rate for periods when studying off-campus for students starting in 2023/24. For students starting in 2024/25 onwards, the tuition fee will increase in line with on-campus fees
  • a PhD qualification which is examined at the same level as a campus-based PhD and a standard PhD degree certificate which does not state the mode of study on it.

“During my PhD by Distance, I undertook my research in the field in South Africa. This experience enabled me to develop a much deeper and intricate understanding of my research topic, which would not have been possible if I had been based in Reading for most of the time.”

Third-year doctoral student

Eligibility

In addition to meeting the standard academic and language eligibility requirements, you must be able to demonstrate that you:

  • can successfully conduct your research with the resources available to you at your off-campus study site
  • have access to appropriate IT facilities, so that you can engage in supervision and training from your off-campus study site
  • have the necessary time, commitment and appropriate attitude toward studying off-campus.

If you are intending to study in the Henley Business School, then please check with the relevant Department within the Business School about whether PhD by Distance is available before you apply.

  • How to apply

Before starting your application, you are strongly advised to navigate to the PhD webpages of your chosen school or department  to read the specific guidance on how to apply, as the requirements can vary. Once you have read the guidance, you will need to make a formal application through the University's online application system , highlighting that you wish to study for a PhD by Distance (full or part-time). If you have questions about PhD by Distance in a specific school or department, then please contact the relevant School/Department PGR Administrator in the School PGR Support Team . 

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Integrated PhD

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Studentships

Funding for our CDTs and DTPs is provided by Research Councils so eligibility criteria apply for the studentships that they offer. This is outlined on the UK Research and Innovation website . They may also consider self-funding applicants for non-funded projects.

A new model of Doctoral training

Integrated PhDs provide a new model of postgraduate training. They retain the depth, rigour and focus of a conventional PhD while also providing a broader training experience.

While the specific training routes may vary, they typically consist of a one-year Master's course (MSc or MRes) which leads straight into a three-year PhD.

This new style of doctoral training is available within our Research Council-funded Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) and Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs).

CDTs and DTPs

Our CDTs and DTPs recruit cohorts of students from a broad spectrum of disciplines, creating vibrant multi-disciplinary communities.

The diversity of students recruited to these centres reflects the breadth of research which they cover.

As well as benefitting from a variety of training opportunities and cohort-building activities, students studying within these centres may also have access to a supervisor and facilities at a partner institution.

Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs)

We offer the following DTPs:

  • Science and Solutions for a Changing Planet , funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and hosted by the Grantham Institute – Climate Change and the Environment.
  • Medical Research Council Studentships – Imperial College Medical Research Council Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) , funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC)
  • Photonics , available through several EPSRC-funded Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) in which Photonics research group members are involved.

Imperial is also a partner in London Interdisciplinary Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (LISS) , funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs)

Imperial currently hosts the following Centres for Doctoral Training. Explore the centres that interest you to find out more about their training programme and available studentships.

  • Advanced Characterisation of Materials
  • Artificial Intelligence for Healthcare – UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training
  • BioDesign Engineering
  • Chemical Biology - Innovation for the Life Sciences
  • Modern Statistics and Statistical Machine Learning
  • Next Generation Synthesis and Reaction Technology
  • Nuclear Energy Futures

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Study PhD in UK...

Study PhD in UK: Complete Guide for International Students

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“How to pursue a Ph.D. in the UK?” is a common question asked by International students.

Are you one of them, exploring the prospects of pursuing a Ph.D. in the UK in 2024? Then look no further! The UK boasts renowned research-intensive universities with exceptional infrastructure, offering fully funded Ph.D. opportunities to international students. Whether you're aiming for a comprehensive guide on Ph.D. courses, universities, costs, or the prerequisites to embark on this academic journey, we've got you covered! Delve into the details and insights to discover more about pursuing a Ph.D. in the UK.

If you are looking for Ph.D. opportunities in the UK, Yocket is here to guide you through everything. And by everything, we mean - cost breakdowns to admission requirements, university shortlisting to visa interviews. Explore the comprehensive guide you need for your academic aspirations in 2024. For personalized assistance, connect with Yocket counselors right now!

An Overview of the PhD Program in UK

Embarking on a Ph.D. journey in the UK means diving into an immersive research experience that combines top-tier academic standards with industrial partnerships. Generally spanning three years, the UK's Ph.D. programs culminate with a thesis submission, often completed 12 months before the official program conclusion. While individual universities may tailor their programs, the key advantages of pursuing a Ph.D. in the UK are significant and multifaceted:

Ph.D. Course Duration in the UK

3-4 years

Average Tuition Fee

£15,000 to £20,000 per year

INR 1327,410 to INR 17,69,880 per year

Mode of study

Full-time or part-time

Popular Ph.D. Course in UK

Computer Science, Engineering and Technology, Paramedic Sciences, Law, Social Science, Architecture, etc.

Top Universities for PhD in Uk

University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, London School of Economics and Political Science

Making decisions about shortlisting universities for your Ph.D. can be quite a challenge, but worry not, we're here to simplify the process for you! Whether you're swaying between a "Yes," "No," or "Maybe," our experts can guide you through this critical phase of your academic journey, offering personalized advice to help you find the perfect match among the top Ph.D. programs in the UK

Why Study PhD in the UK?

The decision to pursue a Ph.D. in a UK university carries substantial benefits and opportunities, making it a highly favored destination for international students, especially for those from India. Let's dive into the reasons that make the UK an ideal choice for a doctoral degree:

  • Academic Excellence: With over 10 universities in the top 100 worldwide, the UK is a prestigious hub for academic excellence, offering superior research facilities and quality education.
  • Supportive Government Initiatives: The UK government's introduction of a 3-year post-study work visa and extended studentships for international researchers seeking Ph.D. is a promising development that supports and encourages global scholars.
  • Cultural Diversity: Engaging in a Ph.D. program in the UK grants students the chance to immerse themselves in a rich and diverse cultural milieu, creating an enriching and vibrant academic experience.
  • Vast Career Opportunities: Upon completing a Ph.D. from globally recognized universities in the UK, students gain access to a wide array of career prospects, spanning commercial research, academic pursuits, and business-oriented roles.

The UK stands as a beacon of academic brilliance, offering a wealth of possibilities for international scholars, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to excel in their doctoral pursuits.

What are the Job Opportunities after Studying in UK?

Further, let’s check the top PhD courses in UK through this infographic.

Why Study PhD in UK?

Moving on, here is a quick look at the types of PhDs a student can pursue in UK.

Types of PhD Programs in UK

Exploring the types of Ph.D. programs in the UK opens up a range of options for international students seeking advanced research and academic pursuits:

  • Standard Ph.D.: This foundational type involves the student proposing, conducting, and documenting research in the form of a thesis. It's widely available across many UK universities.
  • Integrated Ph.D.: Combining a one-year Master of Research (MRes) with a subsequent three-year standard Ph.D., the Integrated Ph.D. offers students numerous educational prospects and is offered in over 30 UK universities.
  • Professional Ph.D.: Geared towards providing extensive employment opportunities, the professional Ph.D., primarily in engineering, science, and medical fields, is highly sought after by international students.
  • Distance Learning Ph.D.: Tailored for part-time or busy international students, this program accommodates flexible schedules and can typically be completed within 5-6 years.
  • Ph.D. by Publication: This unique Ph.D. type is often available to a university's alumni, enabling students to submit their own published works or articles, with word counts ranging between 5,000-20,000 each.

To embark on a Ph.D. journey in the UK, international students must meet specific admission criteria, which vary among institutions. Understanding these requirements is crucial for a successful application.

Best Masters Universities in UK!

Eligibility and Admission Requirements to Study PhD in the UK

What is the Ph.D. eligibility in the UK? The admission requirements for a Ph.D. in the UK for Indian students differ between the universities and the course you wish to pursue. Let us check out the basic requirements to apply at Ph.D. universities in the UK:

  • A master's degree
  • Research proposal
  • English proficiency test scores
  • Additional documents like SOPs , LORs , and CV /Resume.

Let us now talk about these Ph.D. requirements UK briefly!

Phd In London

Masters Degree and Academic Transcripts

The most basic requirement to apply for a Ph.D. in the UK is to have a master's degree in a related field, with academic transcripts for each level of study. Some universities may ask for only a bachelor's degree, which entirely depends on a case-by-case basis.

Research Proposal

A research proposal is a document that is asked by a majority of universities admitting students for their Ph.D. programs. A research proposal should have the topic you wish to research, the intention of the research, and a plan on how the research would be conducted.

English Proficiency Test Scores

It is essential for you, as an international student, to have English proficiency proof in terms of IELTS , TOEFL , PTE , or other tests. The minimum IELTS requirement for a Ph.D. in the UK for Indian students is a score of 7.0 or above.

Additional Documents

Additional documents like the statement of purpose, work experience, and recommendation letters will add more value to your overall application.

Find out the Difference Between IELTS and TOEFL

Now that you are aware of the requirements, let us take a quick look at the application process for Ph.D. in the UK.

Application Process for PhD in UK

How to apply for a Ph.D. in the UK? The application process for Ph.D. admission in the UK is quite simple to pursue. Here is a quick look at the steps you need to follow:

  • Choose your discipline and a university to start your research in the UK.
  • Submit the application form along with the application fee.
  • Submit all the required documents and requirements asked by the particular university.
  • Create a research proposal to be submitted along with all the documents.
  • Find a supervisor to start your doctoral degree.
  • Apply for a scholarship or financial aid, if available at the university.
  • Wait for the admission decision.

Finding a supervisor can be a cumbersome job, and so universities assist you in the same. Also, know that you may not get the supervisor that you had asked for, universities take these decisions on a case-by-case basis.

How to Create an SOP for PhD?

Another important factor that impacts your decision to study abroad is Ph.D. fees in UK. So, let us briefly take a look at the cost of studying for and Ph.D. Scholarships UK.

Cost of Purusing PhD in the UK

The cost of pursuing a Ph.D. in the UK varies for domestic, EU, and international students. The annual cost for Domestic or EU students generally comes around £6,000 (INR 5,30,964) , while for international students it is typically between £16,000 (14,15,904)to £24,000 (INR 21,23,856) per year .

In addition to tuition fees, students need to account for living expenses . On average, monthly living costs for students in the UK fall within the range of £1,100 (INR 97,343) to £1,300 (1,15,042). The actual expenses fluctuate based on individual lifestyle choices and the city of residence.

Breakdown of the Cost of Living in UK for International Students

For international students, scholarships, bursaries, and studentships are common forms of financial assistance provided by various UK universities. These financial aids significantly ease the financial load for students pursuing Ph.D. programs in the UK.

Scholarships to Study PhD in UK for International Students

To assist Indian students aiming for a Ph.D. in the UK, numerous scholarships are available. These scholarships play a pivotal role in supporting their academic endeavors and minimizing the financial burden. Our compiled list encompasses these prestigious scholarship opportunities, empowering students with crucial financial aid options

Oxford Indira Gandhi Graduate Scholarships

Indian nationals on a Merit basis for pursuing a DPhil in areas of interdisciplinary research

Course fees and living costs are covered

Ertegun Scholarship program in Humanities through Oxford University

Students pursuing a DPhil in humanities

£15,609 (INR 13,81,302) + full course fees

Gates Cambridge

Non-EU students enrolled in a postgraduate program

£17,500 (INR 15,48,645)+ full course fees + two air tickets + visa

President’s Ph.D. Scholarship Scheme through Imperial College London

High-Performing master students with excellent academic performance and research potential

Full tuition fees + £21,800 (INR 19,29,169) per annum for 3.5 years



Edinburgh Doctoral Scholarships

Students showcasing outstanding merit and research potential

University tuition fee + stipend of £15,609 (INR 13,81,302) per annum

All-about Scholarships for International Students in UK!

Now that we have all the details regarding studying Ph.D. in the UK, let us take a look at the top universities in the UK for the program.

Top 5 Universities in UK for Ph.D.

The UK, being a nation known for its high standards in the field of research, is very much preferred by international students. Most of the Ph.D. universities in the UK are renowned for their research outputs. We have curated a list of the top Ph.D. universities for you below:

  • University of Oxford
  • University of Cambridge
  • Imperial College London
  • University College London
  • University of Edinburgh

Let us check out the details about these universities:

1. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford has received innumerable accolades for various parameters in groundbreaking research, innovation, and academic excellence. The university provides international students willing to pursue a Ph.D. in the UK with an environment that is extremely beneficial and highly valuable across nations.

QS World University Rankings 2024

3

Popular Programs

DPhil Socio-Legal Research, DPhil Theoretical Physics, DPhil Clinical Medicine, DPhil Archaeology

Average tuition fee

£28,650/ year

INR 25,35,353/year

2. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is known for its research practices around the globe. The majority of international applicants receive Ph.D. scholarships in the UK through the University of Cambridge. Besides, this university also offers funded research projects to international students.

QS World University Rankings 2024

2

Popular Programs

Ph.D. Clinical Psychology, Ph.D. Mathematics, Ph.D. Clinical Neurosciences, Ph.D. Zoology, Ph.D. Physics

Average tuition fee

£33,972/ year

INR 30,06,318/year

3. Imperial College London

The Imperial College London is known to focus exclusively on subjects like sciences, business, medicine, and engineering. Having research impact as the top priority since 1907, Imperial College London should be one of your top choices for a fully funded Ph.D. in the UK for international students.

QS World University Rankings 2024

6

Popular Programs

Ph.D. Design Engineering, Ph.D. Immunology and Inflammation, Ph.D. Mathematics

Average tuition fee

£26,500/ year

INR 23,45,091/year

Ph.D. Universities in the UK

4. University College London

Greatest industrial contacts, excellent collaborations, partnerships with nations across the world, and top-class research infrastructure is what sums up my Ph.D. at University College London . Home to more than 20,000 graduate students from around 150 countries, UCL is also known internationally for its employment opportunities after research.

QS World University Rankings 2024

9

Popular Programs

Ph.D. Behavioural Science and Health, Ph.D. Chemistry, Ph.D. Architectural Design, Ph.D. Financial Economics

Average tuition fee

£25,730/ year

INR 22,76,950/year

5. University of Edinburgh

University of Edinburgh is ranked 4th in UK for research and is one of the best universities offering several fully funded Ph.D. UK programs. With various partnerships across the globe, it offers numerous career opportunities for students completing their Ph.D... Students can opt for a pre-defined Ph.D. project or develop their own research idea.

QS World University Rankings 2024

22

Popular Programs

Ph.D. Accounting, Ph.D. Finance, Ph.D. Engineering, Ph.D. Informatics, Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Average tuition fee

£23,350 year

INR 20,66,334/year

Chevening Scholarships in UK 2024!

Studying at these top universities in UK will ensure that you have a promising future. Let us take a look at the career opportunities after a Ph.D. in the UK.

Career Opportunities after Pursuing PhD in the UK

Though the Ph.D. cost UK is quite high, so are the returns. Ph.D. graduates from the UK are seen performing commercial research post-graduation in various fields like education, science, technology, medicine, and others. Students are also seen working in the private sector performing research for business organisations, apart from working for academia or pursuing even higher research.

For a better understanding of what careers post Ph.D. in UK look like, we have tabulated the salaries for various Ph.D. job profiles below:

Senior Economist

£64,000 (INR 56,63,616)

Data Scientist

£52,000 (INR 46,01,688)

Senior Software Engineer

£70,900 (INR 62,74,224)

Associate Professor

£62,000 (INR 54,86,628)

Research Scientist

£46,000 (INR 40,70,724)

The United Kingdom, with an average salary of £49,825 (INR 44,09,213) , remains a premier destination for pursuing a Ph.D. Its allure isn't solely based on the promising financial returns but also on the accessibility of numerous scholarships for international students. The UK consistently stands at the pinnacle of choices for those seeking a rewarding academic future. For additional guidance and personalized support on your study abroad journey, our counselors are available through Yocket premium subscription – ensuring you're equipped with the best resources for your educational endeavors.

: How to Obtain a Post-study Work Permit in UK?

From the Desk of Yocket

For international students aspiring to pursue a Ph.D. in the UK, navigating the educational landscape and requirements can be complex. At Yocket, we've meticulously crafted a comprehensive guide to assist students in understanding the intricacies of pursuing a Ph.D. in the UK. Our aim is to provide valuable insights into the UK's educational system, requirements, and potential opportunities for international students. This guide is tailored to support and assist students in making well-informed decisions throughout their Ph.D. journey in the UK.

Embarking on your Ph.D. journey in the UK? It's not too late for 2024. Dive into our comprehensive guide, tailored for international students aiming for a successful Ph.D. in the UK. Apply with Yocket now to secure your spot for 2024 and seize invaluable insights on academic requirements, opportunities, and more. Trust Yocket to be your guiding light through this crucial academic pursuit and set the stage for your Ph.D. aspirations in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions about PhD in UK

Which are the top universities for PhD in UK?

The top universities for PhD in UK are: 1) University of Oxford 2) Imperial College London 3) University College London

How much does a PhD in UK cost?

PhD in the UK costs in the range of £15,000 to £20,000 per annum on an average for international students.

Is it easy to get a job after pursuing a PhD in UK?

Yes! PhD graduates can very easily grab an average salary of £49,825 per annum post graduation.

What are the popular courses to pursue PhD in UK?

The most popular courses are clinical psychology, physics, mathematics, immunology, and medicine.

What is the minimum average grade requirement for masters to pursue PhD in UK?

The minimum score a student must achieve to pursue PhD in UK is 60% in both taught course units and dissertation.

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Studentships and doctoral training

Get a studentship to fund your doctorate.

UKRI studentships offer funding for doctoral research. They also offer you access to training, networking and development opportunities to help you build a research and innovation career.

Our expectations for research organisations, supervisors and students are set out in the statement of expectations for doctoral training .

You could get:

  • a minimum stipend of £19,237 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments
  • support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,786 per year)

The stipend is usually non-taxable and does not need to be paid back. Some research organisations may offer more if you study in London, or they or one of their collaborators might decide to top up the payment. This will be outlined in the studentship advert from the research organisation.

We normally pay the support for tuition fees directly to your research organisation.

The levels given here are for the academic year 2024 to 2025. UKRI’s approach to doctoral stipend and fee levels will be reviewed through the  new deal for postgraduate research .

Additional support for your doctoral studies

As a UKRI-funded doctoral student, you may be able to access additional funding to cover the cost of other related training and development opportunities.

This could include:

  • conference attendance
  • language training
  • overseas research visits
  • internships or placements with a non-academic partner

The availability of support will depend on the research organisation and the training grants they have on offer. You should contact the research organisation you are interested in applying to, to find out what you could get.

Extra support if you have a disability

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.

You should speak to your research organisation’s disability advisor to assess your needs. They can help put the right support in place, including a DSA application if necessary. You cannot claim DSA directly from UKRI.

DSA helps to cover the cost of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result of a disability, mental health problem or specific learning difficulty.

The allowance covers:

  • non-medical personal assistance
  • specialist equipment
  • extra travel costs
  • general expenses

Find out more about DSA in our framework .

If you are a research organisation you can download claim forms and guidance for DSA .

Who can apply

Any prospective doctoral student wishing to study at a UK research organisation, including prospective international students, can apply for a UKRI studentship.

All UKRI-funded doctoral students will be eligible for the full award, both the stipend to support living costs, and home-level fees at the UK research organisation rate.

How to find opportunities

Many UK research organisations offer some form of studentship funding from UKRI. These opportunities will depend on the subject you want to study and will normally be advertised by the research organisations.

Research organisations may have additional opportunities that do not involve UKRI. UKRI supports around 20% of all UK-based postgraduate researchers. You should speak to the research organisation you are interested in to find out what studentships are available.

You could also consider using a specialist website like   FindaPhD  to look for opportunities.

When to apply

Research organisations set their own deadlines for applications.

Many open for applications early in the academic year and close in January or February. This is not a hard and fast rule. It is important that you check the deadlines for the research organisation where you want to study.

How to apply

You cannot apply to UKRI for a studentship. You must contact the research organisation you are interested in studying with and use their application process.

For doctoral students who are already studying with a studentship, there are opportunities to get additional funding to support placements that are separate from your doctorate.  Find training and development opportunities .

Last updated: 14 February 2024

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PhD by Distance Learning

Student with books

The University of Birmingham's College of Life and Environmental Sciences now offers PhD by Distance Learning.

This means that wherever you are in the world, you may now be able register with the University of Birmingham for your Doctoral qualification but undertake the majority of your studies in your home location.

Why study by distance learning? 

The main advantage of studying by distance learning is the flexibility. Financial and practical implications of moving closer to the campus make distance learning a more feasible option and could allow you to combine study with other commitments, including work and family.  Similarly, your research could be related to your area of residence and therefore moving would be detrimental to your capacity to carry out the research.

Is the distance learning route for you? 

The distance learning route to PhD study is not for everyone.  You have to have a very clear idea of your project and be able to motivate yourself.  Undertaking PhD study off campus can sometimes be quite isolating, so the ability to proactively seek out connections from within relevant research communities is important.  This route is well-suited to those who have a research project associated with their work or particular interests and where resources are available locally, over via the internet, to support your research e.g. appropriate archives and data collections.

How will I be supported? 

You will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students.  The only difference is that supervisory sessions will take place via audio and visual communication services such as Teams or Zoom, rather than in person.

What is the cost?

We charge an annual tuition fee which is the same as our standard on-campus PhD but includes:

  • Economy class flights to and from Birmingham for the compulsory visit during the first year of your PhD
  • Accommodation at the University for the compulsory one-week campus visit during the first year of your PhD

How often will I need to be on campus?

You will be required to make one compulsory visit to the University during the first year of your PhD. Reasonable travel and accommodation costs for this 1-week visit will be reimbursed. This visit will enable you to meet your supervisory team, undertake additional research skills training, and make a start to your doctoral studies. You will discuss the most appropriate time for this visit with your supervisory team.

Am I eligible?

Before we can offer you a place it is important that you have agreement from your potential supervisor and that they are satisfied that you will be able to undertake the PhD on an off campus basis. This may mean that slightly different entry requirements apply, such as English language and more extensive research skills training. Agreements will also need to be reached regarding some of the more practical aspects of undertaking the PhD in this way (for example attendance requirements, suitability of the chosen residency etc). It is important that arrangements are discussed early so that all parties involved know what to expect and to ensure you are able to successfully complete your studies. 

Can I study by distance learning anywhere?

Distance Learning courses can be undertaken from anywhere in the world, including the UK. 

However, it is worth noting that supervisory sessions for Distance Learning students will take place via audiovisual communications, such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person. 

While we have found that these 21st Century methods have proved popular, for those applicants who would prefer to visit the campus for face-to-face meetings with their supervisor, the traditional part-time study option may be more appropriate. 

How to apply?

Find the programme that you wish to apply for in our course finder and click on the 'Apply' button. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to provide evidence to demonstrate that you have the time, commitment, facilities and experience to study for a PhD by Distance Learning. Please be prepared to provide evidence, and details, of the following:

  • Examples of your postgraduate research experience and ability to work independently e.g. papers/presentations at professional and academic conferences or publications in professional journals or previous completion of an independent research project, etc. 
  • Full reasons (academic and personal) for registering for the distance learning mode of study rather than by standard full or part-time on-campus options. In particular, how you will be able to carry out your project in your chosen location. 
  • Access to local library facilities (where needed)
  • Access to IT facilities
  • Access to communications, including e-mail, and audiovisual communication media e.g. Skype and Facetime
  • Access to facilities to support any study-related disability (where appropriate)

Please visit the course finder for a full list of subject areas available to study via distance mode.

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1 year phd in uk

10 things you need to know before starting a PhD degree

So you want to do a PhD degree, huh? Here we've got everything you need to know about getting started.

So you want to do a PhD degree, huh? Are you sure about that? It’s not going to be an easy decision, so I’ve put together a list of 10 things you need to know before starting a PhD degree. Oh, and don’t panic!

I have recently graduated from the University of Manchester with a PhD in Plant Sciences after four difficult, but enjoyable, years. During those four years, I often felt slightly lost – and there was more than one occasion on which I didn’t even want to imagine writing up my thesis in fear of delving into fits of panic.

On reflection, I realise that – to quote a colleague – commencing my PhD was like “jumping in the deep end with your eyes closed.” If only I’d known to take a deep breath.

1. Are you sure you want to do a PhD degree?

Let’s be under no false impressions, completing a PhD isn’t easy. There will be times when you feel like Wile E Coyote chasing after the Roadrunner – a little bit out of your depth a lot of the time. It’s four years of your life, so make sure it is what you really want to do.

If you want to pursue a career in science, a PhD isn’t always necessary.

It is possible to make great inroads into industry without a doctoral degree. That said, a PhD can also be a very useful qualification with many transferable skills to add to your CV.

By the time you’ll have finished, you can include essentials such as time management, organisational skills, prioritising workloads, attention to detail, writing skills, presenting to an audience – and most importantly – resilience, to name but a few.

2. Choose your project, and supervisor, wisely.

This is  very  important.

Time after time, our experienced scientists at EI, including Erik Van-Den-Bergh (and I agree) say, “ make sure you’re extremely passionate about exactly that subject. ” When I saw the PhD opening that I eventually was offered, I remember being demonstrably ecstatic about the project before I’d even started it.

I was always interested in calcium signalling and organised a meeting with my potential supervisor immediately, which (to quote Billy Connolly) I leapt into in a mood of gay abandon.

Not only does this help you to keep engaged with your project even through the painstakingly slow times, it also greatly enhances your ability to sell yourself in an interview. If you can show passion and enthusiasm about the project and the science then you’ll be that one step ahead of other candidates – which is all the more important now that many studentships are competitive.

You have to  be the best  out of many, often exceptional candidates.

However, as important as it is to be passionate about your project, make sure that the person who will be supervising you is worthy.

Does your potential supervisor have a prolific track record of publishing work? What is the community of scientists like in the lab you may be working in? Are there experienced post-doctoral scientists working in the lab? Who will your advisor be? Is your supervisor an expert in the field you are interested in? Is the work you will be doing ground-breaking and novel, or is it quite niche?

There is nothing more frustrating – and I know many PhD degree students with this problem – than having a supervisor who is rarely there to talk to, shows little interest in your work, and cannot help when you are struggling in the third year of your project and some guidance would be much appreciated.

Personally, and I was very lucky to have this, I think it’s incredibly useful to have two supervisors. My PhD degree was split between the University of Manchester and the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth. Between my supervisors, I had two people with expertise in different fields, who could give me some fantastic advice from different perspectives. This also meant that I had two people to check through my thesis chapters and provide useful comments on my drafts.

PhD students networking during the last Student Symposium

Make sure you are passionate about your subject before taking it to PhD level. And by passionate I mean  really  passionate.

For a start, you will most likely have to write a literature review in your first three months, which if done well will form the main bulk of your thesis introduction and will save you a lot of stress and strain when it comes to writing up.

At the end of your first year, you will have to write a continuation report, which is your proof that you deserve to carry on to the end of your three or four years. This doesn’t leave much time for lab work, which means time management is incredibly important. If you think you’ll be able to swan in at 11 and leave at 3, think again.

Fundamentally, never, ever rest on your laurels! As tempting as it may be to slack-off slightly in the second year of your four year PhD, don’t.

4. Be organised.

This is a no-brainer but still, it’s worth a mention. Take an hour on a Monday morning to come up with a list of short-term and long-term goals. You’ll probably have to present your work at regular lab meetings, so it’s always worth knowing what has to be done (lest you look a pillock in front of the lab when there’s nothing to show for your last two weeks.)

It’s always good to have a timeline of what will be done when. If you have a PCR, maybe you can squeeze in another experiment, read a few papers, start writing the introduction to your thesis, or even start collecting the data you already have into figures.

The more good use you make of your time, the easier it’ll be to finish your PhD in the long run. Plus, it’s lovely to sit back and look at actual graphs, rather than worry about having enough to put into a paper. Once you’ve typed up your data, you’ll realise you’ve done far more than you had anticipated and the next step forward will be entirely more apparent.

5. Embrace change – don’t get bogged down in the details.

Felix Shaw – one of our bioinformatics researchers at EI – put it best when he said, “ it felt like I was running into brick walls all the way through [my PhD]… you’d run into a brick wall, surmount it, only to run straight into another. ”

You’ll find that, often, experiments don’t work. What might seem like a great idea could turn out to be as bad as choosing to bat first on a fresh wicket on the first day of the third Ashes test at Edgbaston. (Yeah, we don't know what that means either - Ed).

Resilience is key while completing your PhD. Be open to change and embrace the chance to experiment in different ways. You might even end up with a thesis chapter including all of your failures, which at the very least is something interesting to discuss during your  viva voce .

6. Learn how to build, and use, your network.

As a PhD student, you are a complete novice in the world of science and most things in the lab will be – if not new to you – not exquisitely familiar. This matters not, if you take advantage of the people around you.

Firstly, there are lab technicians and research assistants, who have probably been using the technique you are learning for years and years. They are incredibly experienced at a number of techniques and are often very happy to help show you how things are done.

There are postdocs and other PhD students, too. Not only can they help you with day-to-day experiments, they can offer a unique perspective on how something is done and will probably have a handy back-catalogue of fancy new techniques to try.

There are also a bunch of PIs, not limited to your own, who are great to talk to. These people run labs of their own, have different ideas, and might even give you a job once you’ve completed your PhD.

Don’t limit yourself to the labs directly around you, however. There are a massive number of science conferences going on all around the world. Some of them, such as the Society of Biology Conference, take place every year at a similar time in different locations, attracting many of the leaders in their respective fields.

If you are terrified by the prospect of speaking at a full-blown science conference and having your work questioned by genuine skeptics, there are also many student-led conferences which will help you dangle your fresh toes in the murky waters of presenting your work.

One such conference, the Second Student Bioinformatics Symposium, which took place at Earlham Institute in October 2016, was a great place for candidates to share their projects with peers, who are often much more friendly than veteran researchers with 30 year careers to their name when it comes to the questions at the end of your talk.

Another great reason to attend conferences, of course, is the social-side too – make the most of this. You never know who you might meet and connect with over a few drinks once the talks are over and the party commences.

7. Keep your options open.

You should be aware that for every 200 PhD students,  only 7  will get a permanent academic post , so it’s  incredibly unlikely that you’ll become a Professor  – and even if you make PI, it probably won’t be until your mid-forties.

You may also, despite having commenced along the academic path, decide that actually, working in a lab environment isn’t for you. Most PhD graduates, eventually, will not pursue an academic career, but move on to a wide range of other vocations.

It might be that Science Communication is more up your street. This was certainly the case for me – and I made sure that I took part in as many public engagement events as possible while completing my PhD. Most Universities have an active public engagement profile, while organisations such as STEM can provide you with ample opportunities to interact with schools and the general public.

You might also consider entrepreneurship as a route away from academia, which might still allow you to use your expert scientific knowledge. There are a variety of competitions and workshops available to those with a business mind, a strong example being Biotechnology YES.

I, for example, took part in the Thought for Food Challenge, through which I have been able to attend events around the world and meet a vast array of like-minded individuals. Many of the participants from the challenge have gone on to set up successful businesses and have even found jobs as a result of the competition.

10 things phd fire

8. Balance.

Remember that you still have a life outside of your PhD degree – and that this can be one of the greatest opportunities to make amazing friends from around the world.

A science institute is usually home to the brightest students from a variety of countries and can provide a chance to experience a delightful range of different people and cultures. Don’t just stick to the people in your lab, go to events for postgraduate students and meet people from all over campus.

There are usually academic happy hours happening on Fridays after work where you can buy cheap beer, or some lucky institutions even have their own bar. At Norwich Research Park, we not only have the Rec Centre, along with bar, swimming pool, calcetto, samba classes, archery, and a range of other activities, but there are also biweekly “Postdoc pub clubs” which are very fun to join on a Tuesday evening.

Maintain your hobbies and keep up with friends outside of your PhD and you’ll probably find it’s not that gruelling a process after all.

Plus, the people you meet and become friends with might be able to help you out – or at least be able to offer a sympathetic shoulder.

10 things phd relaxing

9. Practical advice.

If, after reading all of this, you’re still going to march forth and claim your doctorhood, then this section should be rather useful.

Firstly, make sure your data is backed up. It’s amazing how many people don’t do this and you’d be bonkers not to. Keep your work saved on a shared drive, so that if your computer decides to spontaneously combust upon pressing the return key, you won’t have lost all of your precious work – or have to go through every one of your lab books and type it all up again.

Secondly, don’t leave your bag in the pub with your half-written thesis in it. I did this, the bag was fine, I was in a state of terror for at least half an hour before the kind person at Weatherspoons located said bag.

Thirdly, read. Read broadly, read anything and everything that’s closely related to your project – or completely unrelated. It’s sometimes amazing where you might find a stroke of inspiration, a new technique you hadn’t thought of … or even in idea of where you might like to go next.

Finally, ask questions – all of the time. No matter how stupid it might sound in your head, everyone’s probably been asked it before, and if you don’t ask, you don’t get.

You’ll probably look far less stupid if you just ask the person standing next to you how the gradient PCR function works on your thermal cycler rather than standing there randomly prodding buttons and looking flustered, anyway.

10. Savour the positives.

At the end of all of this, it has to be said that doing a PhD is absolutely brilliant. There’s no other time in your life that you’ll be this free to pursue your very own project and work almost completely independently. By the time you come to the end of your PhD, you will be the leading expert in the world on something. A real expert! Until the next PhD student comes along …

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PhD in UK: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, Placement and Salaries

1 year phd in uk

The average annual tuition fee for pursuing PhD in UK at the top universities is 20,000 GBP- 50,000 GBP (20-50 Lakh INR) and the average cost of living in UK is around 14,000 GBP (14 lakh INR) per year. The opportunities after studying in UK universities are vast. Almost 87% of the Ph.D. students start working after graduation and earn an average pay of 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (40-60 Lakh INR) per annum.


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PhD in UK: Top Universities

International students are attracted to the high-quality education offered by the top universities in UK . According to the QS Ranking of 2024, 5 universities in the UK rank among the top 50 universities across the world. The following table lists some of the top universities offering PhD in UK:

Qs Rankings 2024 University Program Application Deadline Annual Tuition Fees (GBP)
#2 University of Cambridge Aerosol Science, Architecture, Archaeology, Biochemistry, Clinical Medicine, , Law, Medical Science, Oncology, Surgery 16 May 2024 25,000 - 55,000
#3 University of Oxford , Engineering Science, Law, Economics, Philosophy,Clinical Medicine, Astrophysics 25 January 2024 25,000 - 30,000
#6 Imperial College London , Physics, Business, Brain Science, Mechanical Engineering 15 April 2024 20,000 - 40,000
#22 University of Edinburgh Nursing Studies, , Engineering, Socio-cultural Studies, Economics, Accounting, Finance 15 July 2024 24,800- 29,700
#32 University of Manchester Accounting and Finance, Criminology, Architecture, Law, Mathematics, Petroleum Engineering, Sociology, 19 January 2024 27,000-40,500

Why Study PhD in UK?

  • PhD graduates from UK universities have a high employability rate, with 82% of them in employment or further study within six months of graduation, Higher Education Statistics Agency.
  • The UK has some of the world's best universities, and many of these institutions are highly ranked for their PhD programs. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the UK has 3 universities in the top ten for graduate employability, and five universities in the top 40 for graduate employability.
  • The opportunities after studying in UK universities are vast. Almost 87% of the Ph.D. students start working after graduation and earn an average pay of 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (40-60 Lakh INR) per annum.
  • UK universities offer cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Students have access to world-class resources and expertise, allowing them to undertake innovative research in their chosen fields.

PhD in UK: Admissions

Depending on the institution and the particular school, the admission requirements for PhD in UK may change, but they typically include academic credentials, English language proficiency, and work experience. In the section below the detailed admission requirements for top universities offering PhD in UK are given.

PhD in UK: Eligibility Criteria

Admission requirements for a PhD in UK can vary depending on the university and the area of research. However, there are some general admission requirements that most universities will require from applicants:

  • Academic Degree- A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a related field of study.
  • Minimum GPA- The minimum GPA requirement is 3.7 on a scale of 4.0
  • English Proficiency Test Score- IELTS: 7.0 or above, TOEFL: 100+.
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) - Submit a 5000 word personal statement outlining their academic and professional background, their reasons for applying to the program, and their career aspirations.
  • Letters of Recommendation (LOR) - Applicants are usually required to provide at least 2-3 academic or professional references.
  • Research Proposal- A 3000 word research proposal needs to be submitted in the area of research you are applying for.

PhD in UK: Admission Requirements

Following table shows the general admission requirements for getting into a Phd program in the UK universities along with their respective academic requirements and additional document requirements:

University Academic Requirement IELTS Score Additional Documents
A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a related field of study. 7.5 or above SOP (maximum 1,000 words), 3 LOR (all academic), Resume, Transcript(s)
A 4-year Bachelor or Master’s with 70% grades may be accepted for entry to Masters or Research. 7.0 or above SOP, 2 LOR (minimum 1 academic), Resume, Transcript(s)
Professional Bachelor's (at least 4 years) in professional subject from a Well-Ranked Institution with an overall grade of 75% or CGPA 8.0+. 7.0 or above SOP, 2 LOR (minimum 1 academic), Resume, Transcript(s), Research Proposal
A minimum of a three-year degree and who have obtained First Class at a reputable university or have completed a three-year degree with First Class, and also obtained a master's, both from reputable universities with minimum grade of 70% 7.0 or above SOP, 2 LOR (all academic), Resume, Transcript(s), 3000 word Research Proposal
a masters degree in a related or relevant subject, and a research proposal 7.0 or above SOP, 2 LOR (all academic), Resume, Transcript(s), Research Proposal

PhD in UK: Cost of study

United Kingdom is one of the most pursued and sought out countries in the world for international students. The cost of study in UK will include the cost of living and the tuition fees a student is paying for PhD in UK. The cost of study in UK can differ from person to person depending on the university of their choice. The average cost of study in UK ranges from 30,000 GBP to 37,000 GBP (30-37 lakh INR).

PhD in UK: Tuition Fees

A PhD in UK lasts for 3-5 years on a full-time basis depending on the University and the area of research. The following table highlights the annual fees for pursuing PhD in UK universities:

PhD in UK: Tuition Fees

University Total Tuition Fees (GBP) Fee for Indian Students (INR)
University of Oxford 25,000 - 30,000 26-31 Lakh
Imperial College London 21,000 - 44,000 22-45 Lakh
University of Cambridge 25,000 - 55,000 26-57 Lakh
University of Manchester 27,000 - 40,500 28-42 Lakh
University of Edinburgh 24,800- 29,700 26-32 Lakh

Cost of Living in UK

The cost of living in UK includes accommodation, food, transportation, healthcare, personal expenses etc. The average cost of living in UK is around 14,000 GBP- 24,000 GBP (14-25 lakh INR) per year.

Likely living costs for 1 month (in GBP) Likely living costs for 9 months (in GBP) Likely living costs for 12 months (in GBP)
Lower range Upper range Lower range Upper range Lower range Upper range
Food 315 495 2835 4,445 3,780 5,940
Accommodation 745 925 6,705 8,325 8,940 11,100
Personal items 190 320 1,710 2,880 2,280 3,840
Social activities 40 95 360 855 480 1,140
Study costs 35 85 315 765 420 1,020
Other 20 35 180 315 240 420
Total 1,345 1,955 12,105 17,595 16,140 23,460

PhD in UK: Scholarships

If you are planning to study in UK for a PhD you should know that it can become heavy on your pocket. For that reason UK universities provide different scholarships in UK for international students to lighten their burden. Following are some of the scholarships offered to international students who are applying for PhD in UK.  

Scholarship Awarded by (private/government/university) Eligibility Award Value
Scott Trust Foundation Bursary University of London Need Based A bursary covering full tuition fees or 5,000 GBP subsistence allowance
Foundation Degree Scholarship University of Westminster A household income of £25,000 or below as assessed by the Student Loans Company. 1,500 GBP per year towards maintenance costs or tuition fees up to a maximum of four years.
International PGT Merit Scholarship University of Leicester Merit Based Degree equivalent to a UK high upper second class degree – 3,000 GBP. Or Degree equivalent to a UK first class degree – 5,000 GBP.
University of Edinburgh School Doctoral Scholarship Enrolled in Ph.D. in history, classics or archaeology Course fees (equal to UK/EU rate), 15,009 per year stipend
University of Manchester Research Impact Ph.D. Scholarship Enrolled in Ph.D. at Department of Humanities; Research Project related to philanthropic research themes 19,500 per year for 3 years; Additional 1,500 per year

PhD in UK: Job Opportunities

A PhD graduate earns on an average of 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (30-60 Lakh INR) per year in the UK. Most of them go for an academic job especially in the teaching and education sector. According to Prospects UK, over 50% of graduates having PhD in UK are either education or science professionals working in the science and pharmaceutical industry.

Here are some sectors in the where PhD graduates may find job opportunities in UK , along with the percentage of PhD graduates employed in each sector (source: Vitae Researcher Development International):

  • Higher Education - 37%
  • Business and Industry: 23%
  • Government- 16%
  • Non-profit Organizations- 10%
  • Self Employed- 5%
  • Health and Social Care- 5%
  • Other Sectors- 4%

PhD in UK: Job Opportunities

Here are some average salaries for various job titles in the UK for PhD holders:

Job Title Average Salary (in GBP) Average Salary (in INR)
Research Scientist 39,690 41.35 lakhs
Data Scientist 46,474 48.42 lakhs
Postdoctoral Research Associate 36,286 37.80 lakhs
Senior Research Scientist, Biotechnology 41,993 43.75 lakhs
Senior Research Scientist (Unspecified Type) 40,835 42.54 lakhs
Research Associate (Unspecified Type) 36,879 38.42 lakhs
Research Engineer 41,874 43.63 lakhs

Phd in UK: Visa

International students planning to pursue PhD in Uk will require a points-based Student Route visa (previously known as the Tier 4 student visa). To get this visa you must be able to show that you have sufficient money for living costs. The minimum requirements are:

  • £1,023 per month if your PhD is based outside London
  • £1,334 per month if your PhD is based in London

A student visa requires 70 points. These are awarded to you as follows:

  • 50 points – for gaining your confirmation of acceptance for studies
  • 10 points – for proving that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your degree
  • 10 points – for proving you meet the English language requirements

PhD in UK: Work Permit

Provided you are pursuing a full-time PhD in UK, you may work alongside your project or programme, provided you do not: work for more than 20 hours per week, except during any vacations or in the case of an agreed work placement or internship

PhD in UK: ROI

A UK PhD offers a strong ROI as graduates gain advanced skills leading to higher salaries and diverse career opportunities, offsetting initial costs. The prestige of a UK PhD can boost professional credibility, leading to leadership roles and consulting opportunities, further enhancing ROI.

PhD in UK: ROI

University Annual Tuition Fees (in GBP) Average Salary (in GBP)
University of Oxford 27,510 - 31,480 36,000
Imperial College London 21,600 - 44,100 51,000
University of Cambridge 29,826 - 37,458 39,000
University of Manchester 27,000 - 40,500 35,000
University of Edinburgh 23,350 - 28,000 38,000

PhD in UK: Degree Comparison

The following table draws a comparison between PhD in UK vs PhD in USA on the basis of program duration, tuition fees, cost of living, visa, average salary among other parameters.

Parameter PhD in UK PhD in USA
Duration 3-5 Years 4-6 Years
Average Annual tuition fees 20,000 GBP- 50,000 GBP (20-50 Lakh INR) 20,000 USD- 50,000 USD (16-41 Lakh INR)
Cost of living (per month) 14,000 GBP (14 lakh INR) 1,800 USD (1.4 lakh INR)
Financial Support Scholarships, grants, bursaries Fellowships, assistantships, grants
Visa
Average salary 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (40-60 Lakh INR) 55,000 USD- 75,000 USD (45-61 Lakh INR)
English language proficiency tests : 7.0 or above TOEFL: 100+ IELTS: 7.0 or above :110+

Pursuing a PhD in the UK can be a great opportunity for students who are looking for world-renowned universities, a multicultural environment, generous funding opportunities, and a shorter duration of the program. UK offers excellent research opportunities, and PhD graduates from UK universities have a high employability rate. After completing your PhD in UK one can work at higher posts in different fields and earn an average annual salary of 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (30-60 Lakh INR).

Ques. How much does a PhD cost in UK?

Ans . The average annual tuition fee for pursuing PhD in UK at the top universities is 20,000 GBP- 50,000 GBP (20-50 Lakh INR) and the average cost of living in UK is around 14,000 GBP (14 lakh INR) per year.

Ques. How long is the PhD in UK?

Ans . PhD in UK, also referred to as a doctorate, is a 3-5 years full-time and 5-6 years part-time degree depending on the University of choice and the area of research.

Ques. Do PhD students get paid in UK?

Ans A stipend is awarded to students planning to pursue Ph.D in the UK. The cost of the stipend varies from university to university. PhD stipends in the UK were set at £16,062 for students outside of London and £18,062 for those within London, reflecting the higher cost of living in the capital.

Ques. What are some of the top universities offering PhD in UK?

Ans . University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London, and University of Edinburgh are some of the top universities offering PhD in UK.

Ques. What are the admission requirements for applying to a PhD in UK?

Ans . The minimum admission requirement for PhD in UK is to have a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a related field of study or a masters degree with a minimum of 70%, IELTS score of 7.0 or above or a TOEFL score of 100+ and while applying for a PhD in UK you will need to submit a research proposal in the field you of research you are applying for.

Ques. What are the career prospects after completing a PhD in the UK?

Ans . Graduates with a PhD from a UK university have diverse career opportunities. While some pursue academic careers as researchers or professors, others find employment in industry, government, or non-profit organizations. The skills acquired during a PhD, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, are highly valued in many sectors.

Ques. Are there funding opportunities available for international students pursuing a PhD in the UK?

Ans . Yes, many UK universities offer scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities for international PhD students. These may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or research costs. Prospective students should research and apply for relevant funding opportunities early in the application process.

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Top 10 Best 1-Year PhD Programs Online

Lisa Marlin

Are you searching for the best 1-year PhD programs online? A growing number of students are choosing master’s and doctorate degrees with flexible, online models. In a highly competitive job market, having an advanced qualification gives you better salary potential and job prospects. However, not everyone can afford the time and costs of a traditional-length PhD program and living on-campus. If you’re a working professional and want to continue your studies, an online PhD is an excellent option.

Remember, don’t be fooled by the online mode. While the fastest PhD programs offer immense flexibility, they’re by no means easy. It can still be a major time commitment, and that’s where 1-year PhD programs online come into play. Additionally, not everyone will complete 1-year PhD programs in one year; rather, the curriculum makes it possible. Other obligations might force students to take two years to complete their programs.

Ready to find the shortest doctoral program online? Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Best 1-Year PhD Programs Online

Chatham university.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

1 year PhD programs online—Chatham University logo

Chatham University is known for its social mobility and support for disadvantaged students. The school’s Doctor of Nursing Practice takes 12 months to complete if you stay on track, and you’ll need to have a master’s degree in nursing to be considered. The program aims to develop future nursing leaders who will improve healthcare delivery and could very well be the fastest doctorate degree program out there!

  • Courses : Structure and application of contemporary nursing knowledge, quality improvement in health care, and communication & collaboration for healthcare leadership
  • Duration : 12 months
  • Credits : 27
  • Tuition : $1,126 per credit
  • Financial aid : Scholarships, graduate assistantships, veteran benefits, and alumni discounts
  • Graduation rate : 62.5%
  • Location : Pittsburgh, PA

Breyer State Theology University, Department of Ethereal Doctor of Psychology in Grief Counseling

Ethereal Accelerated Doctor of Psychology in Grief Counseling

Breyer State Technology University logo

Breyer State Theology University aims to provide students with high-level knowledge to follow religious careers as ministers, theologians, and counselors. Its Ethereal Doctor of Psychology program in Grief Counseling is also one of the shortest doctoral programs available, with a 1-year duration. It is one of the only online accelerated PhD that helps counselors become specialized in grief and bereavement.

  • Courses : An overview of psychotherapy & counseling, ethics in grief counseling, and therapy with the terminally ill
  • Tuition : $4,500
  • Location : Brandenton, FL

Related:  Top 10 Best PhD in Theology Programs 

American International Theism University

Accelerated Ethereal Doctorate in Business Administration

American International Theism University logo

The American International Theism University provides accelerated doctoral programs in various disciplines, including theology, business, social work , music, and the arts. This specific accelerated doctoral program prepares students for roles in education, research, government departments, or private business administration. The school offers many disciplines for its online accelerated PhD programs, and you can complete them within one year.

  • Courses : International business, managerial economics, and strategic management
  • Tuition : $7,950
  • Location : Englewood, Florida

Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University logo

Frontier Nursing University was ranked third  in the nation for the best online master’s program in FNP by the US News & World Report. This program is suitable for certified nursing practitioners and midwives with an MSN in nursing. The minimum duration for completion is 15 months.

  • Duration : 15-18 months
  • Credits : 30
  • Tuition : $19,950
  • Financial aid : Scholarships, loans, etc.
  • Location : Versailles, KY

Boston University, Boston University College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College

Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PP-OTD)

Boston University logo

Boston University is the largest non-profit university in the US, offering a range of programs across various levels and disciplines. Its PP-OTD program is open to graduates in occupational therapy and has three intakes per year (May, September, and January). As part of this online accelerated PhD program, each semester requires you to work on your doctoral project parallel to other coursework.

  • Courses : Contemporary trends in occupational therapy, health promotion and wellness, and social policy and disability practicum
  • Duration : 18 months
  • Credits : 33-36
  • Tuition : $1,994 per credit
  • Financial aid : Merit-based scholarships, loans, etc.
  • Graduation rate:  87.2%
  • Location : Boston, MA

Maryville University

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

Maryville University logo

Maryville University is a private university that has offered post-secondary education since 1872. Its DNP enables practitioner nurses to pursue roles at the highest level of the nursing sector. The program is fully online, with no campus attendance required.

  • Courses : Principles of epidemiology and biostatistics, advanced health care policy, and quality and patient safety in advanced nursing practice
  • Duration : 20 months
  • Credits : 33
  • Courses : 11
  • Tuition : $922 per credit
  • Financial aid: Scholarships, student employment, loans, and grants
  • Graduation rate:  44.6%
  • Location : St. Louis, MO

The University of North Carolina, School of Medicine

Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT)

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill logo

The University of North Carolina is a public research university, the flagship university of the North Carolina system. A public Ivy university, its transitional DPT program equips working professionals with specialized knowledge in three key areas: clinical foundation, clinical practice, and specialty practice.

  • Duration : 24 months
  • Tuition : Refer tuition page
  • Financial aid : Scholarships and loans
  • Graduation rate : 90.8%
  • Location : Chapel Hill, NC

Grand Canyon University, College of Nursing and Healthcare Professions

Grand Canyon University logo

Grand Canyon University is a private Christian university. Its DNP program is well-suited to professional working nurses and offers advanced education in nursing leadership, medical informatics, and public health . You can transfer up to three doctoral credits from previous studies.

  • Courses : Emerging areas of human health, patient outcomes and sustainable change, and data analysis.
  • Credits : 39
  • Tuition : $725 per credit
  • Financial aid : Scholarships, grants, and loans.
  • Graduation rate : 37.6%
  • Location : Phoenix, AZ

Liberty University

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Liberty University logo

Liberty University is a Christian university that offers various online programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels in various disciplines. Its DMin program has a practical focus, equipping students to handle ministry-setting challenges. The program is made up of 8-week courses, and you can transfer up to 50% of degree credits.

  • Tuition : $565 per credit hour
  • Graduation rate: 28.5%
  • Location : Lynchburg, VA

University of West Georgia

Doctor of Education in Professional Counseling and Supervision

University of West Georgia logo

The University of West Georgia is a public university with 12,700 students with a student-faculty ratio of 19:1. This doctoral program in counseling covers counseling methods through clinical and administrative supervision, advocacy and leadership, and program evaluation.

  • Courses : Ethical leadership in education and advanced therapeutic techniques in counseling.
  • Tuition : $241 per credit
  • Financial aid : Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, and loans.
  • Graduation rate : 39.1%
  • Location : Carrollton, GA

What Are 1-Year PhD Programs Online?

A one-year PhD program is a doctorate you can complete in a very short time and generally requires 30 credits. Though short online PhD programs are called “1-year online doctoral programs”, very few universities offer PhD programs that can be completed in a year.

Most programs take around 15 months or so to complete, though some can last up to two years. Generally, any PhD you can complete in two years or less is considered in this category.

Related Reading:  Top 15 Cheapest Online PhD Programs

Do All The Shortest PhD Programs Require a Dissertation?

No. Many short Ph.D. programs don’t require a dissertation. However, some of these programs involve a research project parallel to other coursework. This means the project must be completed within the program duration, unlike longer doctorates, where the research component is dedicated years after your coursework.

Why Choose a One-year PhD Program Online?

Many opt to study 1-year PhD programs online because they want to earn their doctorate in a short period and enter the competitive job market earlier. This can save you years, not to mention a significant amount of money. After all, many of us cannot afford to spend 5-7 years getting a PhD while balancing work and personal commitments.

Benefits and Challenges of Short Online Doctoral Programs

The key benefit of short doctoral programs is earning a PhD while saving a considerable amount of time and money . You’ll also be able to enter the job market with your doctoral qualification much earlier.

On the other hand, it can be challenging to complete a doctorate in such a short period , often making your studies rather intense. However, if you’re willing to work hard for these short years, you will be able to enjoy the many benefits of having the letter “PhD” after your name.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the shortest doctoral program online.

You won’t find a doctoral program that can be completed in less than a year. Chatham University’s DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) and Breyer State Theology University’s Ethereal Accelerated Doctor of Psychology in Grief Counseling are two of the few, if not only, programs currently available that you can complete within a year. However, you can complete some in a little over a year or two years.

Can you Get a PhD in 1 Year?

Very few universities provide PhD programs that can be completed in exactly one year. Even many programs referred to as “1-year PhDs” actually take a little more to complete and up to two years. However, several doctorates can be completed within a year or two, though not across all disciplines.

What is the Quickest Doctorate Degree to Get?

Chatham University’s DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) is probably the quickest PhD you can get today, as you can finish it in 12 months. Breyer State Theology University’s Ethereal Accelerated Doctor of Psychology in Grief Counseling also takes only one year.

How Can an Online Program Help Accelerate the Doctorate-Earning Process?

On-campus programs typically have a rigid structure and fixed program duration, usually meaning you have to complete them within around three and seven years. On the other hand, many online programs give you the flexibility to go at your own pace. This often means that you can choose to accelerate through the courses fast and complete the program in a shorter period of time.

Are Fast Doctorate Programs as Good as Regular Programs?

You can’t make a direct comparison between fast doctoral programs and regular programs. Regular programs go at a slower pace, so you get plenty of time to study, observe, reflect, and experiment with what you’re learning.

On the other hand, fast doctoral programs involve a more intense type of study and, arguably, you need to put in more effort. However, these short programs also allow you to gain a valuable doctorate qualification and take your career to the next level in a comparatively short period of time.

Final Thoughts

Though rapid PhD programs are broadly called one-year programs, not all can be completed within one year. Many universities provide PhD programs that you can complete within two years. The best 1-year PhD programs online are an excellent way to earn a doctoral degree with minimal disruption to your work and personal life.

If you’re interested in exploring other PhD programs, take a look at our guides on the best PhD programs in marketing , psychology , and history .

Related:  Top 10 Highest Paying PhD Degrees in 2022

Lisa Marlin

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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215 PhD Programmes in United Kingdom for 2024

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PhD Programmes in United Kingdom

The UK is an attractive destination for international candidates pursuing their PhD degrees. It is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and distinguished faculty. A PhD UK degree can be the start to many career opportunities. It will provide graduates with a competitive edge to enter into careers, whether in academia, government, research, non-profit organizations, or private sector agencies. Candidates will benefit from the international focus of many PhD UK programs as the UK attracts many of the best minds from across the globe, creating an environment that is intellectually and culturally stimulating, challenging candidates to grow personally and professionally as they are able to create a vast network of professionals in the field. There are many options for pursuing a PhD UK degree. Universities in the UK offer a variety of programs, such as anthropology, biochemistry, business administration, theology, and sociology, to name only a few. While requirements may differ depending on the university and program, generally candidates pursuing a PhD UK will be required to conduct research in his/her field of study. To be awarded a PhD UK, this research must provide a significant contribution to the field and the subsequent dissertation or thesis must be defended in front of a panel of experts. If you are searching for an exciting and dynamic location for your education, then scroll through the options below and find the PhD UK program that is waiting for you!

  • Integrated PhD Programmes in the UK – A Guide

Written by Sarah Hastings-Woodhouse

An integrated PhD in the UK is a route into doctoral study for those who do not have a Masters degree or lack specialised research training. They generally last four years, consisting of one year of Masters-level study followed by three years of PhD research.

This guide will cover what an integrated PhD is, along with entry requirements, applications, funding and more!

Find an integrated PhD

Ready to start applying? Browse integrated PhD projects here on FindAPhD.

What is an integrated PhD?

An integrated PhD is a four-year (or eight-year, if studied part-time) postgraduate programme. You might sometimes see integrated PhDs referred to as ‘New Route’, ‘4 year’ or ‘1+3’ programmes.

In your first year, you’ll study for a Masters-level qualification. Most often, this will be a Master of Research (MRes) or a Master of Science (MSc) . This will provide you with the foundational skills you’ll need to carry out research at the doctoral level.

In your second year onwards, you’ll work towards completing your PhD thesis . You’ll only be able to progress onto the full PhD if you make satisfactory progress during your Masters year.

You usually won’t be awarded your Masters degree straight after passing your first year – instead it will be ‘banked’ and awarded along with your full PhD at the end of your programme. However, if you don’t end up completing your PhD, you may be awarded your Masters as an ‘exit’ qualification, provided you have earned a sufficient number of credits.

What is the difference between a standard PhD and an integrated PhD?

In the UK, most PhD students are initially registered for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) , before being ‘ upgraded ’ to the status of full PhD candidate (typically after nine months of full-time study). This may sound similar to the process undergone during an integrated PhD – but the key difference is that integrated PhD students will graduate with two separate qualifications , whereas those studying a traditional PhD will only graduate with one.

Another important difference is that while standard PhDs are pure research qualifications, integrated PhDs have a taught component . During your Masters year, you’ll be required to take a series of modules that will prepare you for doctoral study.

The addition of a Masters year obviously means that integrated PhDs are generally longer, although this is not always the case. Many standard PhD programmes also take four years to complete. In fact, a potential benefit of integrated PhD study is that it can help you complete your PhD more efficiently due to the additional training you’ll receive.

Integrated Masters degrees

This guide is about qualifications that combine a Masters with a PhD. However, there is another type of integrated degree that involves studying a combined undergraduate and Masters degree. You can find out more about this kind of qualification over on our sister site, FindAMasters .

Who should apply for an Integrated PhD?

An integrated PhD is a great option for anyone who thinks they would benefit from some more structured research training before embarking on an independent PhD project. However, people who apply for Integrated PhDs generally come from one of two groups:

  • Bachelors graduates who do not have a Masters degree, or
  • International students who want to become accustomed to the higher education system in their host country before diving into full PhD study

You may also choose to apply for an integrated PhD if you have a Masters degree in a different subject and want a more guided introduction to your new field.

What are the entry requirements for an integrated PhD?

The minimum entry requirement for an integrated PhD is usually a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject. International students may also need to meet English language requirements. Most courses will accept an overall ILETS score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in each section. Make sure to check the programme description of your chosen PhD for specific entry requirements.

How can I apply for an Integrated PhD in the UK?

There are a few different ways to apply for an Integrated PhD, depending on the nature of the programme you’re applying for.

#1 Applying with a project title

For some integrated PhDs, you will be required to choose a research topic before you apply (much as you would for a standard PhD). Once you’ve found a university that offers an integrated option for the subject you want to study, you’ll need to decide whether you want to propose your own research topic or apply for a pre-designed PhD. Either way it’s best to reach out to prospective supervisors before you submit your application.

If you’re applying for a pre-designed PhD, the supervisor will be listed on the advertisement. If you’re designed your own project, you’ll need to find an academic whose expertise aligns with your research interests. In both cases, you should let your potential supervisor know that you’ll be applying for an integrated programme. This can help them decide if they’d be suitable for the project.

Once you’ve decided on a project and found an academic who is willing to supervise it, you can submit your application online

#2 Applying without a project title

Some integrated PhDs do not require students to decide on their research topic prior to starting their programme. Instead, you’ll work on several smaller research projects in your first year alongside potential supervisors, which will allow you to make an informed decision about your final PhD topic. You’ll usually develop your research proposal during your first year. This is most common in STEM fields.

For these projects, you won’t need to contact prospective supervisors before you apply. However, it’s still a good idea to think about areas of research that interest you when completing your application.

#3 Applying for a CDT programme

Many integrated PhD programmes are funded by Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) . These are consortiums, formed by groups of research organisations (usually universities and industry partners) that provide training for cohorts of PhD students and offer fully funded studentships . If you’re applying for an integrated CDT PhD (usually described in this context as a 1+3 programme), you’ll apply either to your host university directly or to the CDT itself.

There will usually be a number of individual projects listed under each CDT programme, so you’ll need to specify which one you’re interested in when you apply. Occasionally, you will be asked to indicate a preference in your application but may ultimately be matched with a different project.

Submitting your application

Applications are usually made through an online portal on your university’s website. The exact documents required may vary, but you’ll generally need to submit a combination of the following:

  • Personal statement
  • Cover letter
  • Academic CV
  • Details of two referees
  • Research proposal (if applicable)

You may also be required to attend an interview before being offered a place on an integrated PhD.

What’s it like to study an integrated PhD in the UK?

In your first year, you’ll study a series of taught modules, alongside practical research experience. Taught modules will usually focus a combination of foundational research skills and subject-specific content. You may also receive professional or personal development training.

Depending on your area of study, teaching methods could include lectures, seminars, group work and laboratory sessions. If you’re studying at a CDT, you’ll be trained alongside a relatively large cohort of fellow students during your first year, as opposed to individually or in small research group.

You’ll usually be assessed through coursework during your Masters year. This could include written research reports, presentations and literature reviews.

For some programmes (most commonly those in Arts and Humanities subjects) you’ll write up an extended dissertation of around 10,000 to 15,0000 words in your first year. This is an opportunity to start exploring your PhD thesis topic in detail.

You’ll need to complete all the modules in your Masters year to a satisfactory standard to progress to the status of full PhD candidate. You’ll usually be invited to an interview with your prospective supervisor, in which you’ll need to demonstrate that you’re ready to undertake research at the doctoral level.

Years two, three and four

Once you’ve been confirmed as a full PhD candidate, you’ll progress with your research in basically the same way as you would if you were doing a standard PhD. Your day-to-day life will consist largely of independent research, but you may also assist with undergraduate teaching, present at conferences and collaborate with other students.

You may be required to undertake additional training and professional development by your department. If you’re studying at a CDT, you’ll continue to be offered bespoke training opportunities throughout your programme.

By the end of your PhD, you’ll submit a PhD thesis that will make an original contribution to your field. You’ll also defend your work in a viva voce exam .

Read more about what it’s like to do a PhD .

Fees and funding for integrated PhDs in the UK

The cost of an integrated PhD in the UK is similar to the cost of a standard PhD. Most universities charge around £4,500 per year for UK students. Fees for international students range between £17,890-28,000 .

Most universities charge the same amount each year for integrated PhDs, but some divide fees into a postgraduate taught rate for your first year, and a postgraduate research rate from your second year onwards. This means you may pay slightly more for your Masters year.

Integrated PhDs studied through a Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) are fully funded. This means that successful applicants will have the full cost of their tuition fees covered and receive a stipend to cover their living costs.

If your course is not funded by a CDT, you can still apply for a full studentship from the UK Research and Innovation Council (UKRI) . As of 2021, these are available to international students as well as UK students. However, tuition fees will only be covered at the domestic rate.

Both UKRI and CDT studentships are extremely competitive – most students will not have the full cost of their integrated PhD covered. UK students can apply for the UK government’s doctoral loan (international students may also be eligible in certain circumstances ). Integrated programmes are eligible for funding through the doctoral loan, even if you already have a Masters degree!

Other PhD funding options include part-time work or support from independent charities and trusts .

Read more about how to fund your PhD .

Want More Updates & Advice?

1 year phd in uk

The PhD is the most common variety of doctorate, but others are awarded in specific disciplines or sometimes particular countries.

1 year phd in uk

Joint PhD programmes involve collaboration between two (or more) different universities. So how does that work? Who can apply? And what are the advantages (and disadvantages) of researching in this way?

1 year phd in uk

Thinking of applying for the Doctor of Engineering (EngD)? Our guide covers everything you need to know about the qualification, including costs, applications, programme content, and how it differs from a PhD.

1 year phd in uk

A PhD isn't the only option for postgraduate researchers. Our guides explain professional doctorates, joint degrees and compare other qualification types.

1 year phd in uk

How does the value of an MPhil compare with a PhD, and why might you choose the Masters over the doctorate?

Ideal for senior teachers and policy makers, an Education Doctorate combines advanced training with original research.

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Would a UK 1 year master be valid for US PHD programs

I got accepted into a UK master program but would like to pursue a PHD in the US so would doing a master in the uk be a bad idea?

  • Masters Programme
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Full-time PhD programme

The full-time PhD is a four-year program at our Maastricht Institute, ending with a Maastricht University doctoral degree upon dissertation defense.

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The institute currently hosts about 40 full-time PhD candidates, who are an integral part of the UNU-MERIT community. The programme provides advanced training in the knowledge and skills relevant to the UNU-MERIT research agenda.

Programme Information

Selection criteria, application process, tuition and fellowships.

Career Prospects

Code of Conduct

Life in maastricht, more information.

The first year of the programme (September 2024 – June 2025) :

During the first year, PhD fellows are introduced to the PhD trajectory with a course programme of required and elective courses, taught by leading scholars of UNU-MERIT and our partner universities. These courses are taught in English and spread across two semesters, starting in September. The first semester consists of a programme of  compulsory thematic courses , introducing the fellows to the core research areas of the Institute.  During the second semester PhD fellows also follow elective methods courses, which permit them to develop the skills necessary to excel in the research area of their interest.

Throughout the first year, PhD fellows are supported in the further development of their PhD research proposal by interacting with staff members and potential supervisors. Upon successful defence of the proposal, a PhD agreement is developed with the supervisors and the PhD director, setting out the personal development and research plan and additional training needs for the following years.

After the first year (September 2025 onwards)

The first year is followed by three years of dissertation research and broader professional skill development. PhD fellows are encouraged to participate in seminars and other research activities organised at UNU-MERIT and to present their work in international high-level conferences. As part of their trajectories, PhD fellows can contribute to the Institute with activities related to their PhD, such as tutoring in the Masters’ programmes at the Institute, project-based research or other activities such as providing assistance to conferences and workshops, seminar organisation etc., depending on their longer-term career interests, within or outside academia.

Admission requirements for our full-time PhD track:

  • A Master’s degree from a relevant academic field, including economics, political science, social sciences, business administration, and computational social sciences, with a strong academic background in one of the core disciplines of the institute. Fellows who complete their Master’s degree in spring 2024 may also apply.
  • Documented theoretical and practical understanding of one or more of the topics of interest specified in the introduction.
  • The position requires spoken and written fluency in English, to be demonstrated through an approved test (see section application process) for applicants from non-English-speaking countries.

Desired Qualifications :

  • Knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative research methods
  • Knowledge of the design, development or use of data, modelling and simulation methods and their application in a topic of interest
  • Proficiency in academic writing

Personal Characteristics :

We are searching for candidates who:

  • Enjoy working independently as well as cooperating in interdisciplinary teams
  • Enjoy being part of a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural community
  • Are willing to interact with societal stakeholders in shaping their research
  • Are able to communicate information and results with clarity and ease, both orally and in writing
  • Are in the earlier stage of their career. An indicative age limit of 32 years is softly applied.

We particularly encourage candidates from the Global South to apply.

Applicants for our full-time PhD programme must complete the  online application form . In addition, applications must submit the following:

  • Application letter (1-2 pages) concerning your motivation for undertaking a PhD as well as your reflections on your suitability and ambitions for the position
  • Research proposal (2-3 pages) where you present the idea for the PhD project you would like to carry out, including theoretical and methodological approach. The proposal’s focus must be linked to the above core disciplines of UNU-MERIT, but the emphasis within this is up to the candidate to suggest.
  • A complete CV with information on education and previous research experience
  • A copy of your passport (PDF or JPEG)
  • Electronic copies of certified certificates and grades, and an explanation of the grading system. Upon selection, hard copies by postal mail will be requested.
  • Applicants from non-English-speaking countries must document English skills by an approved test. Approved tests are TOEFL, IELTS and Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) or Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE). We require a minimum level of 600 PBT / 240 CBT / 100 IBT for the  TOEFL  or 7.0 for the  IELTS  (native speakers of English and students who received their Bachelor’s or Master’s education in English are exempt). Maastricht University’s TOEFL code is 7102.
  • One letter of recommendation (in English only) by a current or former professor or employer.

Application deadline: 15 February 2024 at midnight CET

All applications will be reviewed within two months, and a shortlist of candidates will be made based on the above selection criteria. All applicants will be notified of the outcome, and whether you are on the shortlist, by the end of April 2024. If you are on the shortlist, you may be invited for an interview with UNU-MERIT staff and the PhD director in April 2024. The final decision on all shortlisted candidates will be communicated by the end of May 2024.

To enrol in the PhD programme for the 2024-2025 academic year, the following tuition fees apply:

  • First year: €9000 *
  • Subsequent years: €7000 *

The tuition fee includes all programme-related costs. This excludes books, specific research costs, travel costs, accommodation, and visa or residence permit costs. *No rights may be derived from the fees published here.

UNU-MERIT PhD Fellowships

We award up to 10 PhD fellowships and waive tuition for selected candidates. This applies to the full-time track. The fellowship awarded consists of a monthly net fee of  €1650  provided by UNU-MERIT for a period of four years, conditional on satisfactory progress assessed at the end of the first year. In addition, as a fellow you will receive a research budget to cover costs related to your research, such as equipment or travel.

Due to the limited availability of fellowships, we also encourage motivated candidates to apply for other scholarships. For more information you can visit the  scholarships pages  of the university website. You can also check for grants and scholarships at  www.studyinholland.nl

The basic cost of living is around  €1300 per month . If you wish to join the PhD programme without a fellowship, we will ask you to indicate to us how you will fund the first 36 months of enrolment in the programme, as part of the acceptance requirement. You will not need to include this proof in your application; we will contact you in case we need this information.

Students from the USA

Students from the USA are now entitled to use the USA direct loan system when they apply to Maastricht University education programmes. This concerns Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD students. For more information, please visit  this link .

CareerProspects

Our programme gives fellows the skills to function as professionals in many challenging environments. Our PhD fellows typically go on to work as:

• Academics • Government staff • Political analysts • Policy specialists

Many of our alumni follow an academic career: roughly 65 percent of our alumni work in academia. Roughly 15 percent find jobs in international non-governmental organisations including the European Union, United Nations and World Bank. Others work in research institutes such as the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) and Overseas Development Institute (ODI).

For researchers and for the recruitment of researchers

The code of conduct for the recruitment of researchers consists of a set of general principles and requirements that should be followed by employers and/or funders when appointing or recruiting researchers. These principles and requirements should ensure observance of values such as transparency of the recruitment process and equal treatment of all applicants, in particular with regard to the development of an attractive, open and sustainable European labour market for researchers, and are complementary to those outlined in the European Charter for Researchers.

Institutions and employers adhering to the Code of Conduct will openly demonstrate their commitment to act in a responsible and respectable way and to provide fair framework conditions to researchers, with a clear intention to contribute to the advancement of the European Research Area.

Code of conduct for researchers

UNU-MERIT and its School of Governance adhere to the European Charter for Researchers as well as the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Scientific Practice. Staff, researchers and PhD fellows are expected to behave in line with codes of conduct for researchers.  The code contains principles that all scientific practitioners allied with a university should observe individually, among each other and towards society. The principles can be read as general notions of good scientific practice.

Maastricht is considered one of the most beautiful and safest cities in the Netherlands. It is also compact, lively and very international, which makes it a fantastic environment for students.

Residence Permit

PhD fellows who are not nationals of EU countries, Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland or Switzerland, and stay longer than 90 days in the Netherlands are required before they come to the Netherlands to obtain a residence permit. This group of fellows often also need authorisation for temporary stay (MVV) to enter the Netherlands. Please note that not everyone who needs the residence permit also needs MVV. Nationals of one of the following countries do not apply for MVV: Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, the United States, Vatican City, and South Korea.

Should the residence permit be required, the  Knowledge Centre for International Staff  of Maastricht University will submit a request for authorisation to the Ministry of Justice and Security as soon as possible upon acceptance to the programme. Note that the residence permit will be only issued if the correct procedure was followed in the home country..

All PhD fellows coming from abroad and staying for more than 90 days in the Netherlands are required to report upon arrival to the municipality of Maastricht (‘aliens department’) in order to obtain a residence permit and for registration. The Knowledge Centre for International Staff will help you with these issues once you are registered at Maastricht University.

According to the Dutch law, all foreign PhD fellows must have health and liability insurance. PhD fellows may make their own arrangements (coverage by your home insurance) or opt to take  insurance offered via Maastricht University . This insurance covers, among other things, medical and dental expenses and liability.

If you have private healthcare insurance in your home country, you might want to find out whether your policy also covers your medical bills in the Netherlands. If not, you will need to take out Dutch insurance.

Average living costs The following is a realistic estimate of PhD fellow monthly expenditures (in euros).

Average living costs The following is a realistic estimate of PhD fellow monthly expenditures (in euro).

 
Housing (student room)600
Meals500
Insurance53.7
Facilities (copy cards, office expenditures)60
Text books40

Contact PhD Programme Director: Dr.  Micheline Goedhuys PhD Programme Vice-Director: Dr.  Pui-Hang Wong

PhD Programme Coordinator (full-time track):  Julia Walczyk Phone: (+31 43) 388 4449 Email:  [email protected]

Address: Boschstraat 24 6211 AX Maastricht The Netherlands

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PhD student accused of killing one infant she was babysitting for friend and leaving his twin injured

The 29-year-old phd student and longtime friend of the family pleaded not guilty to the charges, article bookmarked.

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Nicole Virzi was arrested after Pennsylvania police said she killed a six-week-old and assaulted his twin brother

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A California college student killed her friend’s ’ 6-week-old baby and assaulted his twin brother at their parents’ home in Pittsburgh, police said.

Nicole Virzi, 29, was babysitting the infant twins Saturday. The University of California-San Diego psychology PhD student, a longtime friend of the family, told the parents she noticed scratches on one twin’s face, belly and genitals, The San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

The parents rushed the newborn to the hospital and left the student alone to watch his brother, Leon Katz. That evening, the baby suffered multiple skull fractures that led to his death , authorities say.

Virzi has been charged with homicide, aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of children. The parents said they did nothing wrong and did not see how either newborn was injured other than by the babysitter, the Union-Tribune reports.

Virzi told police she placed Katz in a highchair that night but forgot to strap him in before leaving the room to get a bottle, according to the Union-Tribune . When she came back, the six-week-old was on the floor and had a large bump on his head, Virzi said. She then called 911.

Emergency crews rushed Katz to a local hospital, where he died on Sunday from blunt-force trauma to the head. Doctors said the injuries resulted “from child abuse,” according to CBS Pittsburgh .

Katz did not give a “plausible explanation” for the infant’s extensive injuries, police say.

Defense attorney David Shrager told CBS Pittsburgh Katz’s death was “an awful thing” but it does not mean “someone is culpable.”

“Our client denies these allegations,” Shrager said, according to local outlet WTAE . “She is a loving person and a friend to these people and would never harm anyone’s child, let alone theirs.”

Nicole Virzi, a PhD student in California, has pleaded not guilty to the charges that include homicide

Virzi pleaded not guilty to all charges, according to the Union-Tribune . She is being held in the Allegheny County Jail after her bond was denied.

Virzi is a PhD student in a clinical psychology program jointly run by San Diego State University and the University of California-San Diego. Her research areas include behavioral medicine, women’s health and eating disorders, according to the San Diego State University website.

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Paul Mescal Photographed Out with Singer Gracie Abrams!

Paul Mescal Photographed Out with Singer Gracie Abrams!

'Owning Manhattan' Star Jonathan Normolle Claims That Being Fired by Ryan Serhant Was His Plan All Along

'Owning Manhattan' Star Jonathan Normolle Claims That Being Fired by Ryan Serhant Was His Plan All Along

Jamie Dornan Makes Rare Dakota Johnson Comments, Reveals What They Recently Texted About

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Keith Lee Reacts to Taraji P. Henson's Embarrassing BET Awards Mix-Up in Since-Deleted Post

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Gracie Abrams Goes No. 1 in the UK, No. 2 in America With 'The Secret of Us'!

Gracie Abrams Goes No. 1 in the UK, No. 2 in America With 'The Secret of Us'!

Gracie Abrams is skyrocketing!

The 24-year-old singer-songwriter just notched her first-ever UK No. 1 with her new album The Secret of Us .

The album also went to No. 1 in Australia and the Netherlands, and soared to No. 2 on the Billboard 200 in the United States. It went Top 10 in nine countries as well, making it her best performing album to date.

Keep reading to find out more…

She also recently achieved another feat, making her solo debut on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Close To You” at No. 49, which also marked Gracie ’s first time entering the Spotify Global Chart.

In September, Gracie will embark on her sold-out headlining The Secret of Us Tour , kicking off September 5 in Portland, Oregon. For all tour ticket info, click here.

The Secret of Us Tour Dates

09.05.24 Portland, OR Alaska Airlines’ Theater of the Clouds 09.06.24 Seattle, WA WAMU Theater 09.08.24 Berkeley, CA The Greek Theatre* 09.09.24 Los Angeles, CA Greek Theatre 09.11.24 Los Angeles, CA Greek Theatre 09.12.24 Los Angeles, CA Greek Theatre 09.15.24 Denver, CO Fillmore Auditorium 09.16.24 Denver, CO Fillmore Auditorium 09.19.24 Irving, TX The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory 09.20.24 Houston, TX 713 Music Hall 09.22.24 Austin, TX Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park 09.24.24 Kansas City, MO Uptown Theater 09.25.24 Minneapolis, MN The Armory 09.27.24 Chicago, IL Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom 09.29.24 Nashville, TN Ryman Auditorium 09.30.24 Atlanta, GA Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre 10.02.24 Washington DC The Anthem 10.04.24 New York, NY Radio City Music Hall 10.05.24 New York, NY Radio City Music Hall 10.06.24 New York, NY Radio City Music Hall 10.08.24 Philadelphia, PA The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark 10.09.24 Boston, MA MGM Music Hall at Fenway 10.10.24 Portland, ME State Theatre*^

*Non-Live Nation Dates ^ Without Role Model

Gracie Abrams is also making headlines after being seen out with this actor!

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How the UK election could make or break the pound's run

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Pound Sterling notes and change are seen inside a cash resgister in a coffee shop in Manchester

  • Sterling whipped around by political uncertainty in recent years
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  • Weak economy, high debt create risks for further currency swings

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British PM Sunak attends a Conservative general election campaign event near Luton

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British pm sunak hunts for votes among the robots at dawn.

Badly lagging in the race to win Britain's election, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak went hunting for votes among robots and staff in a retail distribution centre on Tuesday, kicking off his first campaign stop of the day before 5 a.m. (0400 GMT).

Aerial view of the contested Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea

UK general election 2024 explained in maps and charts

Britons will head to the polls on July 4. Here’s what you need to know about the parties, leaders, and key election issues.

Interactive_UK Elections in maps and charts 2024_5-08-1719503149

On July 4, Britons will head to the polls to choose the next party to lead the country, after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced snap elections on May 22.

Polling suggests the vote will result in a Labour majority after 14 years of Conservative rule.

Keep reading

How israel destroyed gaza’s ability to feed itself, why is july the hottest month of the year, mapping 7,400 cross-border attacks between israel and lebanon, the earth’s changing – so why aren’t we.

Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming UK general election.

The United Kingdom, which consists of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, has a population of about 67 million and has the sixth-largest economy in the world.

Interactive_UK Elections in maps and charts 2024_5_UK at a glance-1719503138

When do polls open?

Polling stations across the UK will be open on July 4 from 7am to 10pm local time (06:00 GMT to 21:00 GMT).

When will the results be announced?

Exit polls on Thursday at about 10pm (21:00 GMT) will give a snapshot of where voters stand, with a handful of results being announced before midnight while most constituency results are expected in the early hours of Friday.

In 2019, the Conservatives’ win was confirmed by about 5am.

How does voting work in the UK?

Voters in 650 constituencies across the UK will elect members of Parliament to the lower chamber, the House of Commons, via the first-past-the-post system. To win each constituency and gain a seat in the House, candidates need to receive more votes than any of their competitors.

A party needs to win at least 50 percent of the seats – 326 – to secure a majority in the House of Commons and be asked to form a government by the monarch, King Charles III. The members of Parliament’s upper chamber, the House of Lords, are appointed rather than elected.

If no party wins a majority, there is a hung parliament.

Interactive_UK Elections in maps and charts 2024_5_Voting at a glance-1719503143

How is the government structured in the UK?

The UK is a constitutional monarchy, meaning the monarch, King Charles III, is the head of state. However, the monarch’s roles are largely symbolic and ceremonial, for example, granting royal assent on bills.

Parliament has a two-house system made up of the House of Commons and House of Lords, sitting at the Palace of Westminster.

  • The House of Commons is composed of 650 members of Parliament (MPs) elected by the people.
  • Unlike the House of Commons, the number of members in the House of Lords is not fixed. As of June 20, 2024, it has 784 sitting members . It is made up of life peers, hereditary peers and bishops.

The executive branch of the government, which implements laws, is headed by the prime minister, who sits for five years and is responsible for appointing members of the Cabinet – senior ministers who are usually heads of government departments.

The UK has devolved governments such as the Scottish and Welsh Parliaments and the Northern Irish Assembly, all of which have a degree of legislative power.

Interactive_UK Elections in maps and charts 2024_5_Government structure-1719503114

UK’s current parliament

The House of Commons consists of 650 seats, each representing a constituency across the UK.

Before Parliament closed on May 30, the House of Commons was represented by 13 parties and 17 independents, including:

  • The Conservatives – 344 seats (52.9 percent)
  • Labour – 205 seats (31.5 percent)
  • The Scottish National Party (SNP) – 43 seats (6.6 percent)
  • The Liberal Democrats – 15 seats (2.3 percent)

The remaining 43 seats were held by nine other parties and independents.

Interactive_UK Elections in maps and charts 2024_5_Current Parliament-1719503108

How have parties fared in previous elections?

The Conservative party has been in power for the past 14 years, appointing five different prime ministers.

In the 2019 election, the Conservatives won 43 percent of the popular vote and secured 365 seats with Boris Johnson leading the party. They have since lost some seats, partly during by-elections, and now (pre-dissolution on May 30 pending the election) have 344. The Labour Party, led by Jeremy Corbyn, won 32 percent of the vote and garnered 202 seats in 2019. This has risen to 205.

The last Labour government was led by Gordon Brown, who led the UK from 2007 to 2010.

Interactive_UK Elections in maps and charts 2024_5_Past leaders-1719503127

Who are the main leaders/parties?

There are several political parties in the UK, however, the two that have dominated the political arena in the 20th and 21st century are the Conservatives and Labour.

  • The Conservatives, also known as the Tories, are a centre-right-to-right party, currently led by Rishi Sunak, who took over from Liz Truss in October 2022.
  • Labour are a centre-left party, led by Keir Starmer. They were last in power between 1997 to 2010 under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.
  • Liberal Democrats, centre to centre-left aligned, led by Ed Davey. In power from 2010 to 2015 in coalition with Conservatives under Cameron and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, then leader of the Liberal Democrats.
  • Greens, left-wing eco-politics, led by Carla Denyer and Adrian Ramsay.
  • Reform UK, right-wing party led by Nigel Farage.
  • SNP, Scottish National Party, centre-left party led by John Swinney.
  • Plaid Cymru, centre-left-to-left-wing Welsh party, led by Rhun ap Iorwerth.
  • DUP, Democratic Unionist Party, centre-right Northern Irish part, led by Gavin Robinson.

Interactive_UK Elections in maps and charts 2024_5_Political barometer-1719503133

What are the key issues heading into the 2024 general election?

The economy, healthcare, immigration, a housing crisis and the environment are among the most important issues facing Britons before the elections according to a survey by the polling company YouGov.

The results of the survey, as of June 24, are as follows:

  • The economy: 52 percent
  • Health: 50 percent
  • Immigration and asylum: 40 percent
  • Housing: 24 percent
  • Environment: 20 percent

Interactive_UK Elections in maps and charts 2024_5_Key issues-1719503121

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IMAGES

  1. Blog: A day in the life of a first year PhD student

    1 year phd in uk

  2. Study PhD in UK: Complete Guide for International Students

    1 year phd in uk

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  5. 6 Best 1 Year PhD Programs Online In Europe 2023

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  6. The Ultimate Guide for First-Year PhDs

    1 year phd in uk

VIDEO

  1. Reality of PhD in UK

  2. Day 25: a PhD time management tip

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  4. FINDING & FUNDING a PhD! UK University Lecturer tips and suggestions

  5. PhD Q&A: How to apply for a PhD at Oxford? How to find PhD funding? Advice on choosing supervisor?

  6. Life of a Cambridge Physics PhD Student

COMMENTS

  1. PhD Programmes, Research Projects & Studentships in the UK & Europe

    Exceptional research and doctoral training. 5-year funding available. Multiscale Models for Life CDT: funded projects for Oct 24 start. Final UK Wellcome health data science PhD Studentship available for Oct 2024. Exceptional research and doctoral training. 5-year funding available.

  2. Applying for a PhD in the UK

    There are over 150 universities in the UK. The vast majority are public universities, meaning that they receive funding (including budgets for PhD studentships) from the UK Government.All British universities are free to pursue their own research objectives, but the amount of funding each institution receives is partly based on regular assessments of its performance as part of the Research ...

  3. PhD Study in the UK

    Here are a few reasons to consider a PhD in the UK this year: ... The length of a UK PhD thesis varies by subject. Dissertations in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences tend to be between 60,000 and 100,000 words. Dissertations in STEM subjects are shorter, as much of the information is conveyed through graphs and data tables. ...

  4. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

    A Cambridge PhD is intellectually demanding and you will need to have a high level of attainment and motivation to pursue this programme of advanced study and research. In most faculties, a candidate is expected to have completed one year of postgraduate study, normally on a research preparation master's course, prior to starting a PhD.

  5. 5 routes to getting a Doctorate

    PhD by thesis. This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal. A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions.

  6. Studying A PhD in the UK

    PhD tuition fees for international students in the UK depend on factors such as the university, field of study, and location. On average, fees range from £15,000 to £35,000 per year. However, it's important to note that actual fees can vary significantly. Register for Free Consultation.

  7. PhD Education (2024 entry)

    For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows: PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500 PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

  8. PhD Programme

    We offer a fully funded Doctoral programme at Imperial College Business School - this includes a tuition fee waiver and a stipend for up to five years. The 2022-23 rate of the Graduate Teaching Assistant scholarship stipend is £20,000 in year one, rising to £20,500 in subsequent years.

  9. PhD by Distance

    On the PhD by Distance programme, you will benefit from: supervision from one or more leading University of Reading academics, working at the forefront of their field. access to a range of high-quality training, delivered on campus or online. access to extensive online Library resources. a reduced tuition fee set at half the standard full- or ...

  10. Study in the UK: the ultimate guide for a PhD in 2024

    Commonly accepted UK language tests: IELTS. You'll get a score of 0 to 9 for each category (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), as well as an overall band score. Generally, UK universities ask for a minimum score of 6.0 or 6.5, with some more reputed universities requiring 7.0 or 7.5. TOEFL.

  11. Integrated PhD

    A new model of Doctoral training. Integrated PhDs provide a new model of postgraduate training. They retain the depth, rigour and focus of a conventional PhD while also providing a broader training experience. While the specific training routes may vary, they typically consist of a one-year Master's course (MSc or MRes) which leads straight ...

  12. Study PhD in UK: Complete Guide for International Students

    Cost of Purusing PhD in the UK. The cost of pursuing a Ph.D. in the UK varies for domestic, EU, and international students. The annual cost for Domestic or EU students generally comes around £6,000 (INR 5,30,964), while for international students it is typically between £16,000 (14,15,904)to £24,000 (INR 21,23,856) per year.

  13. Get a studentship to fund your doctorate

    You could get: a minimum stipend of £19,237 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments. support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,786 per year) The stipend is usually non-taxable and does not need to be paid back. Some research organisations may offer more if you study in London, or they or one of their ...

  14. Search 375 online PhD programmes in United Kingdom

    19,128 EUR / year. 4 years. The Law programme of the University of Leicester is offered at the Leicester Law School, a research-led department, recognising the important relationship between excellence in research and in teaching. Ph.D. / Full-time, Part-time / Online, On Campus.

  15. PhD by Distance Learning

    We charge an annual tuition fee which is the same as our standard on-campus PhD but includes: Economy class flights to and from Birmingham for the compulsory visit during the first year of your PhD. Accommodation at the University for the compulsory one-week campus visit during the first year of your PhD.

  16. PhD by Portfolio

    Duration: PhD by Portfolio is offered on a part-time basis only. Students have between one and five years to complete; Current fees; Funding: PhD students can apply for a postgraduate loan of up to £25,700 to help with course fees and living costs. You can also get extra support if you have a disability.

  17. 10 things you need to know before starting a PhD degree

    5. Embrace change - don't get bogged down in the details. Felix Shaw - one of our bioinformatics researchers at EI - put it best when he said, " it felt like I was running into brick walls all the way through [my PhD]… you'd run into a brick wall, surmount it, only to run straight into another. It's true.

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    The average annual tuition fee for pursuing PhD in UK at the top universities is 20,000 GBP- 50,000 GBP (20-50 Lakh INR) and the average cost of living in UK is around 14,000 GBP (14 lakh INR) per year. The opportunities after studying in UK universities are vast. Almost 87% of the Ph.D. students start working after graduation and earn an ...

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    Frontier Nursing University was ranked third in the nation for the best online master's program in FNP by the US News & World Report. This program is suitable for certified nursing practitioners and midwives with an MSN in nursing. The minimum duration for completion is 15 months. Duration: 15-18 months. Credits: 30.

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    1 Year (21) 2 years (72) 3 years (53) 4+ years (17) Study pace. Full time (193) Part time (119) Language. English (215) Italian (20) Spanish (0) Portuguese (0 ... A PhD UK degree can be the start to many career opportunities. It will provide graduates with a competitive edge to enter into careers, whether in academia, government, research, non ...

  21. Integrated PhD Programmes in the UK

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  22. Would a UK 1 year master be valid for US PHD programs

    It honestly depends on your field. If you're applying to STEM PhDs where the universities require you to have a lot of research experience, then the UK would not be a good option because you'd only be getting 3 months of research, compared to 1-2 years of research with a US master's degree. Of course, that doesn't apply if you want to ...

  23. 1-Year Online Doctoral Programs: Fast Track Your Doctorate

    1-Year Doctoral Programs. There are only a few accelerated doctoral programs available, but they do exist. One such program is offered by Breyer State Theology University, which provides a one-year doctor of psychology program tailored to those interested in becoming grief counselors. As with other accelerated programs, applicants are required ...

  24. Full-time PhD programme

    After the first year (September 2025 onwards) The first year is followed by three years of dissertation research and broader professional skill development. PhD fellows are encouraged to participate in seminars and other research activities organised at UNU-MERIT and to present their work in international high-level conferences.

  25. PhD student accused of killing one infant she was babysitting for

    PhD student accused of killing one infant she was babysitting for friend and leaving his twin injured. The 29-year-old PhD student and longtime friend of the family pleaded not guilty to the charges

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