Research degrees
As a technology university, our mission is to create knowledge through research
We apply this knowledge for the benefit of society, tackling the major global challenges of our age.
Studying a research degree at the University of Bradford makes you part of this mission; you’ll work with academic experts who are shaping the future of their sectors.
96% of our research was rated world-leading, internationally excellent or internationally recognised in the latest Research Excellence Framework.
Research Degrees by Distance Learning
We are making Distance Learning study available to all postgraduate research students. Unlike standard postgraduate research programmes, there will be one intake each year in October.
Applications will be assessed using our standard criteria and with additional criteria designed to assess your ability to undertake work successfully through distance learning.
You will be required to attend the University of Bradford campus for three two-week periods over the course of the October induction period, to welcome you to the University and your supervisory and support staff, to undertake identity checks, and potentially for specific group training events.
Supervision will be undertaken via video conferencing (with the same frequency as standard on-campus study), and with annual progression reviews in October.
Our Distance Learning offering has been driven by the current global crisis, but will also provide an attractive alternative to traditional campus-based study for those wishing to benefit from postgraduate research study at Bradford while remaining in their home location, and from more flexible and accessible study.
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The postgraduate doctoral loan
The UK government is offering loans worth up to £25,700 for new postgraduate doctoral research students from 2019/20.
Loans are not means-tested and are open to English-resident UK nationals aged 59 or under, who do not have Research Council studentships.
Existing student loans won’t affect eligibility for the postgraduate doctoral loan, and repayments will be combined with those for the Master's loan if you have also taken one out.
The University of Bradford offers so many opportunities to help you succeed in your research, and one valuable aspect of this is PGR Connect. Olushola Adeborode Kolawole, PhD Operations and Information Management
PGR Connect
A new peer support initiative to provide connectivity and mental wellbeing for postgraduate research students at the University of Bradford
The project has an emphasis on preventative early intervention initiatives. It centres on the development of a peer support model within which a healthy thriving and connected PGR student community can been cultivated; one that will last beyond the Bradford student experience.
Break new ground
You'll be joining a vibrant community of doctoral students.
You'll receive all the support you need to achieve your academic and career aspirations, and benefit from a dedicated study space for PhD students - the Postgraduate Research Lounge - as well as bespoke facilities for your area of interest.
Our research focuses on:
- advanced healthcare
- innovative engineering
- sustainable societies
The Postgraduate Research Framework
The University offers a range of opportunities to help you succeed in your research.
The Postgraduate Research (PGR) Framework has been designed to enhance your immediate research experience, as well as your future employability, supporting your development as an ethical, rigorous independent researcher.
Research blogs
Read personal research stories written by our academics