Advanced postgraduate research students are an important mainstay of the community of the Institute. We consider our teaching role to be an essential component of our mission, and superb opportunities and support are afforded to postgraduate students and postdoctoral members. Places are limited, so the selection process is extremely competitive, reflecting the world-class level of scholarship that is performed at the Institute.
We work in collaboration with several top-tier universities to afford access to a wide range of academic and research facilities. Our research degrees are administered and supervised by resident faculty and validated by accredited university bodies dependant upon the area of specialisation. We expect our students to be capable of the highest levels of scholarship, to be able to work independantly, and to possess outstanding research skills prior to entry.
A first-class honours degree or equivalent is the usual prerequisite to student enrolment. We operate on a rolling admissions basis, so applicants are welcome to apply at any time during the year and may commence study at begining of terms in September, January, or June.
The application procedure is initiated upon the submission of the following:
1. A covering letter outlining expression of interest;
2. A completed application form;
3. A detailed research proposal;
4. A statement as to the relevance of the proposed enrolment to the mission and core values of the Institute;
5. Complete sets of official transcripts from all institutions of higher education ever attended;
6. A minimum of three personal recommendations addressing applicant's academic abilities, research skills, and capacity for independent and original scholarship. At least one recommendation must be from a supervisory relationship.
7. An application fee of £250, which is credited towards fees if the application is successful and student enrols.
These submissions should be addressed in the first instance to the Postgraduate Admissions Office.
Applications are given very careful individual consideration at various levels within the Institute; therefore, there is no specified timeframe for decisions. We do endeavour to provide a decision within 6 to 8 weeks from the date of receipt of application, however decisions can take up to four months in certain circumstances. To avoid disappointment due to a lack of available places, we encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible prior to their intended enrolment. Please highlight in covering letter if there are any special time considerations that should be taken in account.
Applications may be submitted online or by post.
Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The PhD is a program of independent, self-directed academic research, supported by a team of supervisors, that makes an original contribution to knowledge and is developed into a published dissertation. The PhD program supports the development of research and generic skills, and is the premium qualification for professional researchers, scholars and educators.