Postgraduate research

We welcome applications for a research degree across a wide range of economic, agricultural, international development and policy related topics and are always pleased to discuss initial research ideas with people who may be considering undertaking a PhD or MPhil. The aim of the programme is to give students the opportunity to undertake a sustained and in-depth study of their area of interest, and to equip them with the skills required to pursue independent analytical research for their subsequent career.

Following graduation, past students have followed careers in business, government, industry and academia. Research degree registrations are offered on a full time or part time basis. A full time student studying for a PhD would expect to take three years (maximum of four) to complete their studies. A two to three year full time MPhil programme is also available.

The first year of the programme is usually spent acquiring the necessary grounding in research methods which will allow the development of the specific analytical skills that will be required in students own work. This is accomplished by taking courses in specialist and generic research related skills such as the use of bibliographic databases and presentation skills. PhD and MPhil students may attend research seminars at which eminent scholars present their work.

During the second and third year work is much more closely focused on a specific research question. This may involve a period of time working in the field collecting data, either in the UK or abroad.

When offered a place on any of our research degrees, students are carefully matched with two supervisors who will be experienced in the field of their research interests and will provide academic guidance during their studies through a schedule of regular meetings.

Postgraduate students are encouraged to take part in complementary courses, activities and events arranged across the University.

PhD programme

This programme typically takes three to four years of full-time work, combining research training, collaboration, and independent study and is awarded to a student who has produced an independent and original contribution to knowledge in the field.

MPhil programme

This programme typically takes two years of full-time work.

Entry requirements

For the PhD/MPhil programme, applicants are normally expected to have completed an appropriate Masters course. Alternatively they may be admitted directly following their first degree, subject to excellent performance in a relevant subject.