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Mphil/phd education, course information.

Educational Studies

3-4 years full-time or 4-6 years part-time

Course overview

We are committed to developing our postgraduate students into competent and critical educational researchers able to conduct rigorous and socially impactful research using a variety of methodological approaches.

The Department of Educational Studies at Goldsmiths is recognised nationally and internationally for its innovative, original, and publicly relevant education research. We encourage research proposals in any of the areas in which the Department has expertise, subject to supervisor availability.

We are particularly interested to hear from those who would like to work within areas such as:

  • art practice and learning
  • children’s literature and education
  • curriculum policy and practice
  • social justice and education
  • race, politics, and education
  • progressive pedagogies
  • multilingualism
  • global education
  • education governance
  • education policy
  • early years education
  • comparative education
  • educational research ethics as situated practice

The Department of Educational Studies  has about forty home and international research students. Many of our research students are also practising professionals carrying out research related to their work. Students study either full-time or part-time.

Students become members of the Department’s Research Centres  and they're encouraged to contribute along with staff and other visiting scholars to their seminar series and to the Department’s rich research culture. Additional facilities for research students are provided by the  Goldsmiths Graduate School .

The Department of Educational Studies also participates in two prestigious Doctoral Training Partnerships (please see the Funding section below).

Have a look at our student profiles and their research topics .

Contact the department

If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Dr Vally Lytra .

Programme aims

To help you:

  • Identify appropriate issues of educational significance for your enquiry
  • Select appropriate methods and methodologies by which to investigate these
  • Appreciate the epistemological and technical assumptions that underpin this choice
  • Design and execute a well-founded enquiry
  • Analyse and interpret findings with accuracy, rigour, and originality
  • Identify the practical and professional implications of educational enquiry
  • Pursue doctoral training and development and achieve socially impactful research
  • Build connections with postgraduate alumni working in HE as well as in a range of employment sectors

We ensure that you’re supported by highly qualified supervisors who you work with to a mutually agreed timetable and maintain regular tutorial contact throughout your research. An induction and research training programme is provided and you’re normally expected to follow this. There is an annual appraisal of your progress, and every effort is made to ensure good communication between yourself, your supervisors, and other relevant members of staff.

You’ll join a vibrant research community with many opportunities to lead and engage in work-in-progress seminars, research clusters, the annual postgraduate conference, create your own research communities, and get support for writing for publication.

You’ll have additional support from the  Graduate School , where there’s a lively programme of interdisciplinary seminars, as well as core research training to support your studies. The Graduate School also has its own virtual research community, running in parallel to the physical School and providing online seminars and research training programmes.

All MPhil and PhD students and academic staff are invited to research seminars run by the Department’s three Research Centres: the  Centre for Language, Culture and Learning (CLCL), the  Centre for the Arts and Learning and the Centre for Identities and Social Justice . In addition to academics from inside and outside the University, research students also have an opportunity to contribute to seminars on work in progress.

In addition to the facilities available in the Graduate School, the Department has good facilities for research students including a study room.

Thesis and viva voce.

What our students say

Klaudia matasovska.

university college london phd in education

My PhD supervisors are well-established experts in their field and very supportive, and they have guided me on my PhD journey very effectively.

My research topic

Having enjoyed my MA Education: Culture, Language and Identity at Goldsmiths, I began my PhD in 2021. My research is about LGBT+ inclusion of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). As a former SEN teacher, I realise the importance of addressing LGBT+ inclusion in the context of classrooms with pupils with SEND. I am looking at the challenges and barriers for educators and school leaders in charge of implementing effective steps to address inclusion in SEN school settings. You can learn more about my research activities on my website .

Choosing the doctoral programme

My good relationships with members of the Department of Educational Studies , which started to be built during my MA studies, naturally inspired me to do my PhD at Goldsmiths. My PhD supervisors are well-established experts in their field and very supportive, and they have guided me on my PhD journey very effectively. Furthermore, the department has also supported me financially via a bursary . This has been very helpful to me as a full-time student. I have also been very supported by my PhD programme convenor who is a very experienced scholar.

My time at Goldsmiths

I really embrace having the opportunity to practise my presentation skills via the Work in Progress seminars, and also the PGR (postgraduate research) conferences for us PhD students where we can present our research to the university community. This enhances our confidence when it comes to public speaking, which is an important skill to have for any academic. In addition to this, we are always encouraged to engage in critical thinking and in meaningful discussions related to education.

Advice for future students

I would encourage students to network with others in the academic community as much as possible. This is good for enhancing your skills as a scholar, as well as for gaining opportunities to collaborate with others and learn from more experienced academics.

South East London experience

I like studying in South East London because of its vibrant diverse character and the lovely academic community that is part of this area.

Jessica Boyd

university college london phd in education

I chose the Education doctoral programme because I was aware of the forward-thinking, innovative and social justice focus that the university had.

My research topic

I work in initial teacher training and my research topic looks at Culturally Relevant Pedagogy. This study aims to understand the ways in which teachers in England take into account the cultural identity of their students in their planning and teaching.

I chose the Education doctoral programme because I was aware of the forward-thinking, innovative and social justice focus that the university had and I could see that my research ideas would complement the work that the Education department were already focused on.

I enjoy discussing research critically with my supervisors. No two conversations are the same and I always come away from discussions feeling both challenged and valued.

Do it! Goldsmiths is so forward-thinking and has impact at the heart of all of the various activities. You naturally meet so many different types of people at university and it's a great way to discover more about yourself and those around you.

Goldsmiths is also located in such a vibrant area of London, you'll never run out of interesting things to do.

Sam Holdstock

university college london phd in education

The relationships I had built with members of the Education faculty during my MA made Goldsmiths' doctoral programme the natural choice.

Having greatly enjoyed my MA in Creative Writing and Education at Goldsmiths, I began my PhD in 2019. My research explores the role that Interactive Fiction might be able to play in the secondary school English classroom, with a particular focus on classroom talk and dialogue. However, I am also exploring the role of the teacher-writer, and some of the experimental works I have developed for use in the classroom can be found on my website .

The relationships I had built with members of the Education faculty during my MA made Goldsmiths' doctoral programme the natural choice. My PhD supervisors are knowledgeable, inspirational and supportive, and they have helped me to refine and develop my thinking a great deal. Moreover, the Department of Educational Studies has also supported me financially by means of a bursary. This has been enormously helpful, and I have felt well-supported throughout my PhD so far.

I particularly enjoy the opportunities for discussion that the programme offers. The Work in Progress seminars, Saturday school series and supervision sessions I have attended have been hugely stimulating. It is always interesting to hear about the research of my peers and to discuss all things Education with a group of like-minded, critical and curious individuals.

I would encourage students to embrace and explore the range of opportunities and expertise that are available - you never know where the next exciting, inspiring or interesting idea will come from.

I am enjoying studying in South East London because it is near where I live and work; I feel close to the academic community I have joined, and this community does not feel detached from the rest of my life.

Entry requirements

You should normally have (or expect to be awarded) a taught Masters in a relevant subject area. 

You might also be considered for some programmes if you aren’t a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, but have relevant experience and can show that you have the ability to work at postgraduate level.

International qualifications

We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the qualifications we accept from around the world.

If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification ) of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 to study this programme. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate-level study .

Fees, funding & scholarships

Annual tuition fees.

These are the fees for students starting their programme in the 2024/2025 academic year.

  • Home - full-time: £4786
  • Home - part-time: £2393
  • International - full-time: £17690

If your fees are not listed here, please check our postgraduate fees guidance or contact the Fees Office , who can also advise you about how to pay your fees.

It’s not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you think you might be eligible to study part-time while being on another visa type, please contact our Admissions Team for more information.

If you are looking to pay your fees please see our guide to making a payment .

Additional costs

In addition to your tuition fees, you'll be responsible for any additional costs associated with your course, such as buying stationery and paying for photocopying. You can find out more about what you need to budget for on our study costs page .

There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme. This can include things like paying for field trips or specialist materials for your assignments.

Funding opportunities

Find out more about postgraduate fees and explore funding opportunities . If you're applying for funding, you may be subject to an application deadline.

ESRC/SeNSS studentships

Fully-funded ESRC studentships are available via the South-East Network for Social Sciences (SeNSS) Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), a consortium formed of 10 leading UK Universities, all of which are engaged in cutting-edge social science research and training.

A number of past and current students on this programme have been awarded SeNSS studentships.

For information about ESRC/SeNSS funding please, visit the ESRC studentships section .

AHRC/CHASE studentships

Fully-funded AHRC studentships are available via the Consortium for the Humanities and the Arts South-East England (CHASE) Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), a consortium of nine leading UK institutions offering additional professional development opportunities including the enhancement of media skills and placements overseas or with arts organisations.

For information about AHRC/CHASE funding please, visit the AHRC studentships section .

How to apply

You apply directly to Goldsmiths using our online application system. 

Before submitting your application you'll need to have: 

  • Details of  your education history , including the dates of all exams/assessments
  • The  email address of your referee  who we can request a reference from, or alternatively an electronic copy of your academic reference
  • Contact details of a second referee
  • A  personal statement  – this can either be uploaded as a Word Document or PDF, or completed online

           Please see our guidance on writing a postgraduate statement

  • An electronic copy of your educational transcript (this is particularly important if you have studied outside of the UK)
  • Details of your  research proposal  (please also see below guidelines)

You'll be able to save your progress at any point and return to your application by logging in using your username/email and password.

Before you apply for a research programme, we advise you to have a look at the staff research interests to see if Educational Studies is the right department for you and whether a member of staff matches your research interests.

The University of London requires that students have two supervisors. Nominating supervisors in your application indicates that you have a good grasp of your research and helps us to direct your application to appropriate members of staff and in determining a good match between your research and the Department.

You should not contact supervisors directly . The Director of Postgraduate Research will contact supervisors after receipt of your application.

Guidelines for writing a research proposal

A good research proposal is required if you are interested in studying at MPhil or PhD level at Goldsmiths. It should indicate the topic that you are interested in and your experience and understanding of the area. The proposal forms a basis for discussion if you are interviewed and is important in helping us decide the supervisory support needed.

Whatever topic that you choose to research there will be a considerable investment of time and energy on your behalf. In view of this you need to consider carefully what you want to find out, whether the work is important to you and will sustain your interest and commitment over a number of years.  Please also refer to  our information on writing a research proposal.

The proposal should be between 1,500 and 2,000 words long. Although the exact form may vary according to what you intend to do, you should aim to include the following:

  • Title This may only be a working title but it should clearly indicate the field of study and your research focus within it.
  • Introduction This should outline the general field of study and why you regard researching a particular aspect of this to be important. It is helpful to indicate how your own experience has led you to the particular research questions that you are asking and why you think you are in a good position to carry out the research.
  • Main research questions State clearly what you aim to find out. Try to make your research questions sufficiently focused so that they can be adequately addressed within the time and the resources that you have available.
  • Reviewing the literature You need to show that you are aware of the main debates and issues relevant to your study. Key contributions in the literature should be cited and commented upon and the links with the work that you intend to do must be made explicit. Try to make clear what is already known in the immediate area and indicate how your work will add something new and distinctive to what already exists.
  • Methodology You are asked to provide a brief overview of your intended research approach. For example, empirical research may draw on observation, interviews or document analysis that can be described qualitatively or quantitatively. Whichever approach you use it must be clear how any data or practice will help you answer your main research question. You need to show that you are aware of the different methods and analyses that you could use and provide a brief rationale for those most suited to your research. Indicate details such as where you will carry out your work, others who may be involved, over what period of time, and whether you will be able to obtain permissions or access needed.
  • Ethical issues   Briefly indicate any particular considerations that might arise regarding issues such as protecting your participants from harm, and respecting their autonomy and privacy. 

When to apply  

We accept applications from October for students wanting to start the following January or September.

Students on this programme are eligible for SeNSS and CHASE funding. If you wish to be considered for SeNSS/CHASE funding, you need first to apply to the Department for a place on the MPhil/PhD in Education and have been offered a place on the programme by 5pm on Friday 2 December 2022.

Selection process 

Once you have submitted your application, it goes to Goldsmiths central admissions department and is subsequently sent out to the Department of Educational Studies for a first-pass review.

Successful candidates are invited to a remote interview. Unfortunately, due to the number of applications we receive, we are not able to offer feedback on unsuccessful applications. 

If you have specific questions about the application process, contact Dr Vally Lytra, Director of Postgraduate Research, v.lytra(@gold.ac.uk) .

Find out more about applying .

Find out about the staff in the Department of Educational Studies and their research interests .

http://www.gold.ac.uk/educational-studies/research/  

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PhD/MPhil Professional Education

Postgraduate research degree

This Professional Education PhD/MPhil allows you to closely examine a specific area of higher education. You will conduct research or combine your publications to create a unique analytical account.

Research centres and groups

  • Learning Enhancement and Development Educational

Key information

Starting date Deadline for application
Oct 2024 1 October 2024 Aug 2024 31 August 2024

LEaD Learning Enhancement and Development

The department for Learning Enhancement and Development is made up of an Academic Team, Digital Education Team and Academic Skills Team.

Professional Education Postgraduate research degrees PhD/MPhil course Overview

You will shape your own experience of the Professional Education PhD/MPhil. By concentrating on one element of higher education through in-depth research, you will produce a major body of work and position yourself as an expert.

City’s Learning Enhancement and Development (LEaD) is a central service and an academic department with a research-active team. It will help you create and realise the best possible research programme.

Our research-active team plays a key role in developing the educational culture here. The design of your PhD or MPhil will be a collaboration between us and you. We are flexible and creative, offering professional development opportunities to support educational practice. This enables you to achieve your maximum potential.

Three types of doctorates from LEaD.

Traditional PhD

The focus of this route is on academic inquiry and scholarship which requires a significant and original contribution to knowledge. The focus is usually on developing academic knowledge in this area and requires a study focused on scholarly activity in the area.

On completion of study a thesis of between 80,000 -100,000 words is submitted.

PhD by Prior Publication

This route focusses on those that have published in their discipline and have demonstrated an original contribution of knowledge in this area. The components of the submission includes the body of published work and a supporting document which synthesises the published work and indicates clearly the original contribution to knowledge (20,000 words).

PhD by Prospective Publication

This route requires you to conduct an empirical research project or a series of related projects in a similar manner to the work normally conducted for PhD presented by major thesis. The output will be a series of peer- reviewed articles which should be submitted to a journal accepted and published.

You should normally be the first author of all the publications. The articles and commentary are submitted in a single thesis (40,000 - 80,000 words).

For full details about the City PhD programme structure, please see the Guide for Research Students .

Requirements

You should normally be working in an area of professional education with a minimum of three years’ experience. This way you can draw upon your practice as well as your theory and use this programme of study to develop your practice.

You are expected to have a good honours degree (normally no less than a second class honours degree from a UK University) in an appropriate subject and/or an MA or MSc or equivalent qualification.

You should be able to demonstrate proficient use of oral and written English and demonstrate the aptitude and motivation to undertake a course of independent research at doctoral level.

If you consider yourself to be a non-traditional student you may be considered if you can demonstrate substantial research or relevant professional experience/publication.

English Language

An overall score of 7.0 in the English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a minimum of 6.5 in the reading and writing subtests. Other evidence of proficiency in the English language which satisfies the Board of Studies concerned (for those students who don't require a Tier 4 visa).

For more information see our main entry requirements page.

Visa requirements

If you are not from the European Economic Area / Switzerland and you are coming to study in the UK, you may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study.

The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

  • Students on courses of more than six months
  • Students on a pre-sessional English language course
  • Students on courses of less than six months.

For more information see our main Visa page .

Fees and funding

Full-time Home/UK: £4,770 per year

Part-time Home/UK: £5,010 per year

Full-time International: £13,370 per year

Part-time International: £6,680 per year

Fees for doctoral candidates are charged annually and cover registration, supervision and examination.

Fees are subject to review each year and may vary during your period of registration. Where applicable, fees for City's programmes will be subject to inflationary increases in each academic year of study commencing in September . Our policy for these increases is set out in our terms and conditions of study .

Prospective students are encouraged to explore doctoral Grants and funding opportunities .

Our bursaries are non-repayable sums of money granted by the University, usually based on need.

Our loans are repayable sums of money granted by the University or other body.

Our scholarships are when the University pays towards your Study fees. You may also be eligible for further funding.

Postgraduate Doctoral Loans

The Government has introduced a new Postgraduate Doctoral Loans scheme which can provide a loan of up to £25,000.

This will be over three years to support study for a doctoral degree.

A Postgraduate Doctoral Loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study. It can be used alongside any other forms of support you may be able to receive.

For more information, please see our Postgraduate Doctoral Loans page .

Additional expenses

Some of our degrees may involve additional expenses which are not covered by your tuition fees.  Find out more about additional expenses .

Academic support

City has a well-established structure and processes to support your research .

Supervision

Research students are normally appointed a supervisory team consisting of at least two supervisors. One of these will be designated as the first point of contact with personal responsibility for ensuring that effective supervision is provided.

The Students' progress is monitored regularly and supported with an annual review, here the student may have the opportunity to discuss their research design and written work with their advisor.

Training provision

When you commence your studies, your supervisor will assess any needs you may have for training and will explore an appropriate programme of development with you. This includes undertaking some modules to help you teach when required.

Research environment

You will have the use of a desk, phone and other office resources within LEaD. You will also be invited to all activities that are part of the LEaD development so you can participate and become an active member of the team.

The City Doctoral College can provide more information about graduate degrees.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying for this programme your first step should be to draft a research proposal as outlined in the how to apply section and send this to  Professor Pam Parker the programme directors so we can review if we have appropriate supervision for your project.

You will need to complete an application form and provide two references. One of which should be an academic reference demonstrating support for your ability to study at this level.

If you are applying for the traditional or by prospective publication routes you should also provide a research proposal which follows the format of:

  • An abstract of no more than 300 words
  • The research objectives
  • The proposed research methodology appropriate for your study (approx.1000 words)
  • A summary review of the relevant literature and current understanding or knowledge and an indication of how the proposed research will contribute to the discipline (approx. 1500 words)
  • An outline work plan for the period of research including consideration of approval of any research ethics implications (approx. 500 words)
  • An outline of why you wish to pursue this research and what you feel you will bring to it (approx. 500 words)

See here for guidance on writing your research proposal .

If you to apply for the prior publication route you need to submit a list of the publications and these should be in English with you as either the sole author or one of the authors. You should also include a written document of 2,000 words outlining how the publications demonstrate an original and significant contribution to the topic.

All applications and proposals will then be reviewed by the Senior Tutor/Programme Leader for the research programme and at least one further category A supervisor.

If the proposed area of research can be supported by the expertise of the supervisors in the department and the other aspects of the application meet the criteria, then the applicant may be invited for interview with the proposed supervisor and the Senior Tutor for the programme or another member of the approved supervisor team.

This interview might take place via the telephone or Skype if required.

If you wish to apply for an October start you need to submit your application by the 31 st August.

If you wish to apply for a February start you need to submit your application by the 20 th December.

The Department operates within the University policy on equal opportunities and so this would be demonstrated when considering applications.

For staff fees are usually waived.

You will normally register as an MPhil/PhD student and, in due course, be assessed for transfer to PhD registration according to the approved procedures of LEaD and the University.

If you would like to discuss the programme further contact Professor Pam Parker (Programme Leader).

If you need an application form or other information contact please email  [email protected].

  • 1 st Oct 2024

For further application enquiries please contact our PGR enquiries team .

Find a supervisor

See our full list of academic staff and potential supervisors.

Professor Pam Parker

Professor Pam Parker

Director of LEaD

Learning Enhancement and Development

Useful links.

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Contact details

+44 (0)20 7040 3107

[email protected]

Imperial College London Imperial College London

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Looking for funding?

Use our scholarships search tool to look for available scholarships. Also explore our latest funded PhD vacancies .

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is the most common type of doctoral degree and the highest level of academic qualification you can achieve. 

It normally takes between three and four years of full-time work to complete. It is also possible to undertake a PhD part time, over five to six years.

The main activity of a PhD is to carry out an original research project under the direction of one or more supervisors, to be written up as a thesis.

Different routes to achieving a PhD

There are a number of ways to achieving a PhD at Imperial:

  • by undertaking a course of study based on your own research proposal
  • by joining a research project that comes with funding attached (known as a studentship)
  • by combining it with Master's study in an integrated route that typically lasts four years

Pursuing your own research idea

To search for PhD opportunities based on your own research proposal you first need to identify a research group within Imperial whose area of expertise best matches your idea.

Use the links below to search the different PhD opportunities within our academic departments, centres and institutes. This includes information about current studentships and often guidance on finding a supervisor.

Our interdisciplinary approach means our expertise often spans departmental boundaries – and so do our courses – so you may find opportunities in an unexpected area of the university.

Faculty of Engineering

  • Aeronautics
  • Bioengineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • School of Design Engineering
  • Earth Science and Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering

Faculty of Medicine

  • Department of Brain Sciences
  • Department of Immunology and Inflammation
  • Department of Infectious Disease
  • Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction
  • Department of Surgery and Cancer
  • National Heart and Lung Institute
  • School of Public Health

Faculty of Natural Sciences

  • Life Sciences
  • Mathematics
  • Centre for Environmental Policy

Imperial College Business School

  • Doctoral programme

Centre for Languages, Culture and Communication

  • PhD in Arabic, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish Studies
  • PhD in science communication studies

Global Challenge institutes

We have six Global Challenge institutes, which were created to address some of society's biggest challenges.

If you have an idea for a PhD that falls within the remit of one of our Global Challenge institutes please contact them directly to discuss before making a formal application.

  • Data Science Institute
  • Grantham Institute – Climate Change and the Environment
  • Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering
  • Institute for Security Science and Technology
  • Institute of Global Health Innovation

Energy Futures Lab  does not offer PhD programmes, but does deliver the  MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures .

Joint Academy of Doctoral Studies | Imperial College London-Technical University of Munich

We have recently formed  a strategic partnership in education, research and innovation  with the Technical University of Munich, one of Germany’s most international and entrepreneurial universities, producing highly ranked research, like Imperial, in science, engineering and medicine.

As part of the partnership, Imperial and TUM have launched a 'Joint Academy of Doctoral Studies' with the aim of co-developing cross-disciplinary clusters of PhD students who will have access to world-leading academic supervisors and state-of-the art facilities at both institutions.

The first round of the programme will focus on the theme of 'Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare and Robotics'.

Find out more about the Joint Academy of Doctoral Studies and apply

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MPhil/PhD Programmes

There are over 400 research students at the Institute who come from a range of backgrounds including psychology, psychiatry, nursing, social work and basic sciences.

Our MPhil/PhD programme allows students to carry out research in any of our 14 departments and in a wide variety of areas;  from molecular genetics and biology, to neuroscience, neuroimaging, clinical research studies, psychological studies and new treatments; from longitudinal studies to clinical trials, bio statistics, epidemiology and health services research and transcultural studies. 

Please see their departmental webpages and online prospectus entries to see research options/areas currently being undertaken:





Is a PhD for me?

Our PhD students come from a variety of backgrounds, with a variety of qualifications and experience. Take a look at the following information and recent/current student profiles, to find out whether a PhD is right for you:

King's College London says:

  • All candidates should usually possess the normal minimum entry qualifications for registration prescribed in the King’s  Core Code of Practice for Postgraduate Research Degrees . This is normally a 2:1 in a relevant field. 
  • Candidates should possess an adequate level of English competence. Candidates for whom English is not the first language will be required to provide proof that they possess an adequate level of English competence . The minimum level accepted is an IELTS score of 6.5. Grade C or above in GCSE English is also acceptable. Candidates must also satisfy their appointment panel of their competence. 

The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) says:

  • It is useful to have a Masters degree, or related work experience in your chosen area of interest.  

EU and International students should check the list of equivalent grades for international qualifications . Please contact the  Health Schools Admissions Centre  for further enquiries.

If you wish to study full time:

  • You will be expected to submit your thesis within 3 years.
  • You are permitted to work part time, but students are expected to work on their PhD for 35 hours a week and we encourage any part time work to be agreed with your supervisors.

If you wish to study part time:

  • You will be expected to submit your thesis within 6 years. 
  • You are allowed to submit your thesis early (as early as 4 years) but this must be agreed with your supervisors and other conditions apply. Please contact the  Postgraduate Research Team  for more information.

The current fees for the 2022/2023 academic year are:

  • Full time Home = £7,050 per year
  • Full time Overseas = £26,640 per year
  • Part time Home = £3,525 per year
  • Part time Overseas = £13,320 per year

If you are a member of staff at the IoPPN you may be eligible for a discount on fees. Please contact the  Postgraduate Research Team  for more information. 

Please note that tuition fees are subject to an annual increase of up to 5%. For more information, see the Fees webpage.

Students can start in either October (when most students start), February or June. 

Students who are being funded by an external source should check whether there are any limitations on start dates.

If you are not able to self fund your PhD studies, then you will need to find funding from another source. 

The IoPPN offers a number of full time studentships on an annual basis, funded by the Institute itself, and partly by the Medical Research Council. These studentships offer students full payment of tuition fees for 3 years and a monthly tax free stipend for living. These studentships are for set projects. 

Individual academics and departments also offer full time fully funded studentships, on an ad hoc basis, if they receive funding themselves. These are also usually for set projects.

All funded studentships are advertised on our Studentships webpage.

If you have your own project in mind and would like to find funding, browse these links:

  • Centre for Doctoral Studies Funding Database
  • Research & Development Office
  • Research grants office
  • Medical Research Council
  • Economic and Social Research Council
  • British Council
  • Government Loans

For more information on funding at Kings, please see the  Funding  webpage.

Student Profiles

Robert-Power-resized-for-web

Students take classes together in their first year and all have offices on the same floor, which makes it a very social and friendly place to study. It also means that students researching different areas of psychiatry, psychology, neuroimaging, and genetics are in constant contact, which helps to broaden your exposure to research. 

Students and staff alike are always keen to get involved in collaborative projects, whether small or large, allowing students to explore areas of interest outside those strictly relevant to their PhD. 

The PhD itself is usually very independent, driven by the student's own ideas and interests. These collaborations often also extend beyond the Centre, allowing for research and conference opportunities abroad. 

All in all, it's a great place to be!

Emma-Palmer-profile-pic-resized

I wanted to understand how pioneering brain imaging could lead to new ways for diagnosing the condition, and as a result, I applied for a PhD with Dr Andy Simmons at the Department of Neuroimaging. 

As a PhD student, the Institute has provided outstanding research facilities for postgraduate education and the provision of college organised training courses for personal development and teaching has been fantastic. 

I have enjoyed this experience so far, and benefited from excellent supervision in a friendly and stimulating research environment. 

Fiona-Pepper

The IoPPN has great research facilities and I'm really pleased that I have had the chance to study here.  

With Psychosis Studies being one of the larger departments at the IoPPN, I've found there are always lots of opportunities to attend relevant talks and seminars, including weekly Psychosis Studies meetings with internal and external speakers.

I am really enjoying being a student here and one of the best things is that you can create your own opportunities.  I set up a problem-based learning group to help students gain a greater understanding of magnetic resonance imaging, including the physics and basic analysis. They have been really well attended and the group has grown considerably since it was first stated.  I have also had the opportunity to be the student representative for Psychosis Studies and be a mentor to some MSc students too.

When I graduate, I would like to continue working in research as a post doc, working my way up the academic ladder to professor.

The Next Steps

  • The Application Process
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UCL

  • 51,000 Students
  • 18,000 Students (int'l)

Top reasons to study here

  • UCL is 9th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2024
  • UCL is The Times and The Sunday Times University of the Year 2024
  • UCL is the university in London that is most targeted by graduate employers

UCL was founded in 1826 to open up higher education in England to those who had been excluded from it. It was the first university in England to welcome students of any religion or social background, and the first in England to welcome women to university education. This challenge to the norm and commitment to a fairer society was considered deeply unconventional by contemporary commentators.

UCL is widely regarded as an academic powerhouse, appearing in the top 20 in a range of worldwide rankings. UCL is 9th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2024, and , The Times and The Sunday Times University of the Year 2024.  

There are more than 700 graduate research and taught degree programmes available, as well as teacher training courses in a wide range of academic areas.

UCL's vision is to transform the way that the world is understood, how knowledge is created and how problems are solved.

At the very heart of UCL's mission is our research. The university was rated second in the UK for research power in the last “Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).”

UCL’s researchers are continually making an impact on the world we live in; creating headlines across subject areas, locally in the UK and across the globe. UCL's research-based teaching methodology means that research is integrated into many of our degrees and students have the opportunity to make an original contribution to their field of study.

Employability matters. Stand out in a competitive job market with a graduate degree from University College London, the 9th best university on the planet. UCL provides a world-class education and world-class employment opportunities. 

Get bespoke career support, join industry networks, and develop the cultural fluency and global outlook that are prized in today’s job market.  

PhD Programmes

  • DPsych Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy
  • EdD Culture, Communication and Media
  • DEdPsy Educational and Child Psychology
  • DEdPsy Professional Educational, Child and Adolescent Psychology
  • EdD Psychology and Human Development
  • DPA Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy
  • EdD Social Science
  • EdD Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment
  • EdD Education, Practice and Society
  • D.B.A. Health
  • EdD Learning and Leadership
  • DClinPsy Clinical Psychology
  • Ph.D. Mental Health Sciences
  • DDent Paediatric Dentistry
  • EngD Biochemical Engineering and Bioprocess Leadership
  • EngD Urban Sustainability and Resilience
  • Ph.D. Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour

UCL Scholarships

Below you will find scholarships related to UCL. Distinction can be made between scholarships provided by the University and those provided by independent providers.

Read more about eligibility

UCL

For a complete overview of scholarships for UCL, visit our scholarship search .

University Ranking

Student services.

  •  UCL is proudly committed to ensuring that all of its students have access to the best support and welfare services they need for academic success, personal growth and development. The Student Enquiries Centre offers free walk-in guidance across a number of issues, from health and wellbeing to finance and funding. Tutors and research supervisors are also able to provide academic support as well as friendly advice and encouragement. Student Support and Wellbeing (SSW) offer personal services including: 
  • Drop-in sessions and counselling for mental health and wellbeing 
  • Specialist information for international students 
  • Disability or long-term health condition support 
  • NHS health centre

Housing services

UCL Accommodation offers a range of room types, with halls conveniently located in central London. We offer postgraduate halls and have limited family accommodation for students that would like to live with partner, family or children. We also work with private providers and partners to signpost alternative accommodation options for students that choose to live outside of halls.

The fees you pay vary depending on location and facilities. However, all accommodation fees include a furnished room rental and:

  • Use of communal areas
  • Maintenance within your Hall
  • Cleaning of shared bathrooms, kitchens and communal areas
  • Utility charges, including Wi-Fi
  • Basic contents insurance; and 24/7 support

Library services

There are 15 specialist libraries with more than two million books, 12,000 journal subscriptions, archives, rare materials, significant manuscripts and many other resources. The university also holds globally important museum collections, artworks, objects, specimens and images.

Campus life

 UCL sits at the heart of one of the most dynamic cities in the world and is committed to being a global leader in knowledge exchange, enterprise and open innovation.

UCL's historic campus is in Bloomsbury, central London, with the main Quad on Gower Street. We are continually creating new world-class facilities in our Bloomsbury campus – both through new developments and refurbishing some of our buildings that are rich in heritage.

Sports facilities

UCL offers plenty of opportunities to take part in team sports or just to keep fit and have fun.

  • Students' Union UCL runs around 60 sports and dance clubs, ranging from boxing and badminton to karate and capoeira!
  •  The Union also runs Bloomsbury Fitness, a well-equipped health and fitness club located just next door to the main campus in Bloomsbury.
  • The UCL Sports Grounds in Shenley, Hertfordshire, include full-size football pitches, all-weather netball and tennis courts, plus a pavilion. A free bus service runs to the sports grounds on match days and for training.
  • Other nearby facilities include Student Central, open to all University of London students including UCL students.

Student clubs

Student union 

UCL Students’ Union helps all members of the student community make the most of their time at university. It hosts more than 360 clubs and societies and is home to several bars, shops and cafes. The students’ union strives to improve the lives of all UCL students by representing and advising them, offering support, fostering connections and organising activities and events. It is managed by elected officers who act as the student's voice. Union officers work hard to improve the way the university is run. The Postgraduate Students’ Association is dedicated to graduate students, providing them with many services such as social amenities and sports facilities. 

  • Ranked 9th in the World in the QS World University Rankings 2024 The Times and The Sunday Times University of the Year 2024 30 Nobel Prize laureates among current or former staff and students Second in the UK for research power in the Research Excellence Framework 2021 (REF)  Leading position in third Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) In the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023 (TEF) UCL was awarded Gold for Student Outcomes, Silver for Student Experience, with an overall rating of Silver. 
  • Top-performing university in the initial year of Horizon 2020, the EU funding scheme (Research Professional) 
  • Four UCL academics awarded European Research Council Starting Grants in 2022, awarding €6 million to UCL projects.

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Research degrees (PhD and MPhil)

Undertaking postgraduate research allows you to develop in-depth knowledge while making a meaningful contribution to your chosen field. The School of Advanced Study’s eight world-renowned institutes offer expertise in a broad range of humanities disciplines. 

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Choose between on-campus study or online PhD supervision from anywhere in the world.

However you study, you'll benefit from the School’s collaborative research environment, specialist resources, and opportunities to participate in an extensive programme of events. 

What our students say

“My supervisors are experts in the fields that inform my research, and the Institute is home to influential research centres which bring together academics from all around the globe. The research culture promotes independent work while still receiving constant support and constructive feedback.”

Monja Stahlberger, Germany

PhD at the Institute of Languages, Cultures & Societies

“I chose this PhD programme because of the world-leading expertise offered by the academic staff, the availability of resources, and the series of lectures given by visiting academics and leading practitioners in the field of refugee studies.”

Dean Thompson, Australia

PhD at the Refugee Law Initiative

“The programme has furnished me with many skills, from interpersonal to technical, that will be very useful regardless of whether I choose to stay in academia or pursue a career in industry or in the public sector.”

Daniela Major, Portugal

PhD in Digital Humanities

PhD and MPhil degrees

Phd at the institute of classical studies, phd at the institute of advanced legal studies, phd at the centre for latin american and caribbean studies, phd at the institute in paris, phd at the institute of commonwealth studies, phd at the institute of english studies, phd at the institute of historical research, phd at the institute of languages, cultures and societies, phd at the warburg institute, phd digital humanities, phd digital humanities by practice.

We have 38 University College London PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

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University College London PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Digital health technologies: federated learning for eye disease detection, phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Cancer PhD: Optimising vaccine response through cytokine modulation in urothelial cancer

Funded phd project (uk students only).

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Predicting the Colloidal Properties of Recombinant Protein in Solution Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Visual system vulnerability in dementia: from detection to determinants, constraints and causes of brain evolution in birds, modelling material transformation in light-based volumetric additive manufacturing, cancer experimental and computational phd understanding human glioblastoma initiation and its microenvironments, optical tissue stimulation for in vitro vascularization, emerging continuous light-based volumetric 3d printing methods, novel topologies and technologies for advanced reluctance machines, cognitive neuroscience phd at ucl, moving towards closed-loop reusable building systems, funded social science phd studentship opportunity on intergenerational solidarity, funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

Social Sciences Research Programme

Social Sciences Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

PhD Studentship: EPSRC iCASE Studentship E-fuels for low emission gas turbine combustors

Phd in “integrated bioprocess economics and sustainability analysis for intensified processes for cell and gene therapies”.

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Phd In London: ...

Phd In London: A Comprehensive Guide To Phd In London For International Students

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London is now the academic capital. The city is more than just a place to explore. The academic standards here have attracted the attention of multiple international students to pursue graduate degrees here; one such is Phd. Pursuing a Phd in London has its perks, such as reputed universities, exceptional learning experiences etc.

The Phd programs offered at the top Phd in London universities are diverse. This means that the courses here cater to every student's interest globally. So, if you’re looking to pursue Phd programs in London, this blog covers everything you need to know to get started.

An Overview Of Phd In London

To help you get started about Phd in London, let’s first understand what to expect when applying for Phd programs in London:

Public University

Three years

Imperial College London, University College London, London School of Economics and Political Science, King’s College London, Queena’s Mary University London, etc.

Full-time, Part-time

Phd in Child Health, Chemical engineering, Science communication studies, Film studies, German, Environmental economics, Regional and urban planning, etc.

39

Why Study Phd In London?

To make a confident investment, you must first analyse what benefits you are receiving from it. You know that London is a better place to choose when it comes to academics, but what makes it worth the investment? Here are five reasons:

  • Study From QS-Ranked Universities- London is home to the best Phd universities. These universities are ranked on the QS-World university rankings of 2023. Due to their demand on this list, most international students consider them for their postdoctoral studies. A few are Imperial College London ( Ranked 6), UCL (Ranked 8), etc.
  • Home To Top Brands- Another great reason to choose London for Phd studies is their career hub. Almost all of the top brands’ main headquarters are in London. To name a few are Tesco, McDonald's, BBC, etc. This allows international students to learn from the best minds and work with them.
  • Networking Opportunities- Students can also benefit from networking in London. Looking closely, you can see many local businesses surrounding you. You can engage with them and try to build your skills accordingly. Apart from this, engagement can also lead to networks that can help you find your ideal job.
  • Student-Friendly City- Lastly, London is a student-friendly city . The nightlife, the places to visit, the bookstores, etc. are all great entertainment options for international students to study and live well here.

Comprehensive guide to pursuing Phd in Uk

Top 5 Phd Universities In London

multiple Phd universities in London cater to the Phd interest of students globally. These universities are highly ranked, offer a diverse range of Phd courses in London, etc. Thus to help you make the right choice, here are the top universities to pursue Phd in London:

Imperial College London

University college london (ucl), king’s college london, london school of economics, queen’s mary university of london.

Imperial College of London is one of the highly chosen universities to pursue Phd studies. The university offers a diverse range of Phd programs, and each of the programs is designed to provide students with the right knowledge and skills required.

Public University

6

3 years

Phd in Bioengineering, Computing, Materials, Chemistry, Lifesciences, etc

£16,000-£41,000/year

London

UCL is another popular university to pursue Phd studies. In fact, the university has a diverse range of Phd programs offered, including creative topics such as film, literature, education, etc.

Public University

8

3 years

Phd in Cybersecurity, Dutch, Ear Insitute, Education, Film Studies, etc

£21,000-£47,000/year

London

King’s College London is another popular study destination to pursue Phd programs in London. They offer full-time and part-time programs catered to the interests of students accordingly.

Public University

37

3 years

Phd in Engineering, Creative Writing Research, Geography, Clinical Psychology, etc

£22,000- £27,000/year

London

London School of Economics is another great choice to pursue Phd studies in London. They offer five Phd programs that are focused on Economics, Geography and Environmental studies.

Public University

56

3 years

Phd in Economic Geography, Geography and Urban Studies, Environmental Economics, etc

£20,928/1st-year

London

Lastly, Queen’s Mary University of London is the top five choices when considering to pursue Phd from London. This university also offers a diverse range of Phd programs as well as an insightful learning experience.

Public University

125

3 years

Phd in History, Law, Politics, Medicine, Film, etc

 

£20,000- £50,000/year

London

Eligibility Criteria To Pursue Phd Programs In London

To apply to the top Phd colleges in London, international students should meet the set eligibility criterias. These criterias can differ based on the university choice. However, there is standard requirement enquired by all, such as:

A Bachelor’s and Masters Degree

English language proficiency test.

International students should have completed an undergraduate and Masters degree from an accredited university, and with reference to the program they wish to pursue Phd from. It is important students score a good grade in both to increase their chances of getting accepted at their dream Phd university in London.

International students should prove their English language skills. Thus, writing and clearing the English proficiency tests are mandatory to do the same. Here are the popular exams undertaken and the score required, IELTS - 7.5, TOEFL ibt- 100, PTE - 7.5.

Admission Process For Phd Courses In London

To successfully meet the admission criterias for Phd colleges in London, you need to follow a simple admission process. Ensure you meet the following steps:

  • Identify which are the Phd universities in London
  • Email the Phd supervisor if you wish to study from a particular individual
  • Submit a research proposal based on the Phd program chosen
  • Check the chosen universities' entry requirements
  • Fill the online application form
  • Write and clear any entrance exams in UK
  • Submit all relevant documents before the application deadline
  • Attend any interview if scheduled by the university
  • Once accepted, apply for UK student visa and arrange for funds

Documents Required For Phd Colleges In London

To complete your eligibility criterias, international students should send in a set of supporting documents. Ensure you check the list below:

  • All official transcripts
  • Research Proposal
  • Filled in online application form
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Two Letters of Recommendation
  • Proof of English Language requirements

Cost Of Studying Phd In London

To study at Phd universities in London, you require to calculate the complete costs to arrange for your fundings. Two aspects contribute to the cost of studying Phd in London: tuition fees and the cost of living.

Let’s learn about each of them one by one:

Tuition Fees

The Phd in London Fees differs based on the university and program chosen. For each program, the fees can be different. Thus to give you an overall picture, the Phd in London fees are between £16,000- £50,000/year for a full-time basis. Most of your fees will be half of the full-time ones for students who wish to opt for part-time.

Cost of Living

To survive in London, international students require a minimum of £1500/month. The expenses can vary accordingly, such as the type of accommodation chosen, which area in London you’ll live, where you dine? and above all, your lifestyle choices.

Total cost of studying in UK for international students

Scholarship Opportunities For Phd In London

To pursue Phd in London for international students, calculate the cost factors. As seen above, there are multiple aspects that contribute to the complete study of a Phd program here. Thankfully, with Phd scholarships London, monetary stress can take a step back.

The perks of availing of scholarships are receiving funding that can support students with financial needs. From covering core costs such as tuition fees, living expenses, etc, to offering grant money during the study period, scholarships make it convenient for international students to pursue Phd here.

Here is an overview of scholarships to pursue Phd in London:

Gates Cambridge Scholarship

Pursue Phd program at University of Cambridge

 

Covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, etc

Imperial College London President’s Phd Scholarship

Pursue full-time and part-time Phd programs at Imperial College London

 

Covers tuition fees and other relevant expenses

The Royal Society Grants

Pursue Phd program from top research institutes in Uk

 

£300,000 (total scholarship amount)w

Carnegie Phd Scholarships

Pursue Phd studies from Scotland’s top institutes

 

Provide financial aid to academically performing students

Wolfson Postgraduate Scholarships in Humanities

Pursue Phd in Humanities from top universities or colleges in UK

 

Offers £22,000 stipend which covers tuition fees, training, and research expenses.

View more scholarships to study in UK for international students

Career Opportunities After Phd In London For Indian Students

After you complete the courses for Phd in London for Indian students, it’s time to step into the professional world. UK believes that the contributions of the Phd holders can impact their economic growth. Thus, plenty of job opportunities here offer an impressive salary package.

To help you understand better, here is an overview of job profiles and salary figures after Phd in London:

Cheif Executive Officer

£ 86,113

Neurosurgeon

£ 98,458

Research Scientist

£ 37,342

Postdoctoral Research Associate

£ 30,432

Quantitative Analyst

£ 57,886

PR Opportunities After Phd In London

How to get PR after studies in UK?

You’ve now completed your Phd programs in London and have graduated from the top Phd colleges in London, what next?

Apart from being a good academic choice, London is also home to well-established brands such as HSBC, Unilever, etc. This demand has led most international students to consider settling down permanently in London.

So, how can you get a PR after your Phd in London?

  • Students need to complete their academic studies by scoring good grades
  • Students should apply for the Graduate Route visa in order to apply for the UK stay. For Phd students, the stay is available for up to 3 years.
  • During the three-year stay, Phd students should find a job or find ways to enhance their current skills.
  • In order to apply for a PR in London, UK, students should have completed five years of professional experience. This means once your three years are completed, students can apply for a Tier 5 visa where they can work for another two years here.
  • Once five years are completed, students need to then apply for an ILR visa (Indefinite Leave to Remain). It is better to find an ILR job as well.
  • Ensure you meet all PR requirements such as good grades, no criminal records, exhibited ethical behaviour, and passed the English and life knowledge Test.
  • It takes a minimum of six months for your ILR visa to be processed. Once done, you’ve received PR and are eligible for all rights of the country.

Wrapping Up….

Phd in London for Indian students provides a golden opportunity to study in a globally recognized educational system. London has been more than just a popular tourist destination. Today, multiple international students pursue various degree programs, such as Phd in this city as it is a prominent destination for academic and career development. Thus if you wish to explore more about Phd programs in London and more, speak to our Yocket counsellors today.

Frequently Asked Questions For Phd In London

How long is a Phd in London?

A Phd in London study duration is three years.

What are the part-time Phd courses in London?

There are multiple part-time Phd courses in London for international students to choose from, such as Phd in architecture, communications and media, archaeology, etc.

Can you pursue Phd in London with scholarships?

Yes, international students can pursue Phd scholarships London during their study period. These scholarships will provide the right funding opportunity to support students financially here. To name a few are the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Imperial College London President’s Phd Scholarships, etc.

What is another name for ‘Phd’ in London?

Doctorate of Philosophy is another popular terminology used to refer to Phd studies in London.

Can you get a Phd in London for international students?

Yes, the country is home to multiple Phd universities in London that offer a range of courses in this degree program. Students can pursue any course they wish and experience an advanced and enhanced learning experience from the best minds in the chosen study industry.

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