Postgraduate research degrees
Creating knowledge through research
Studying a research degree at the University of Bradford makes you part of our mission to create knowledge through research.
You'll work with academic experts to tackle major global challenges, and help shape the future of your sector.
Apply for a project or submit your own research proposal:
Distance learning PhDs
You can now study your PhD remotely.
Research at Bradford
Meet our doctoral students:
- Sophie (PhD Human Resource Management)
- Kamran (PhD Operations and Information Management)
- Helen (PhD Dementia)
They discuss life as a research student at Bradford, and explain how their research can make a difference.
Types of postgraduate research degree
- Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD)
The highest level of degree, the PhD is respected around the world. Supported by a supervisor, you will undertake a research project resulting in an extensive thesis of up to 80,000 words, which will be reviewed by a panel of academics. It takes at least three years to complete a PhD full-time, but will take longer if studied part-time.
- Master's of Philosophy (MPhil)
An extended postgraduate degree which is largely researched-based, and results in a thesis of up to 40,000 words. An MPhil thesis can form the basis of a PhD. - Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
The pinnacle of management education. It involves rigorous study, ongoing research and continual practical assessment. With a DBA you can be considered a global expert in your field.
Why choose Bradford for your research degree?
- Our reputation for research
96% of our research was rated world-leading, internationally excellent or internationally recognised in the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF). - Flexible distance learning PhD options
Distance learning is available to all research students, with one intake per year in October. You'll be required to attend the University over the course of the induction period, and supervision will be undertaken via video conferencing. Find out more about distance learning PhDs.
- PGR Connect - our peer support initiative
A peer-to-peer support network and community which aims to foster wellbeing and a sense of belonging in our research students. - PGR Lounge - our research community hub
A dedicated space exclusively for use by our postgraduate research students. There are areas for private study, group work and socialising. - Postgraduate Research Framework - support for research students
Extensive resources for our doctoral research students, designed to enhance your research experience and future employability.
The most important factor that attracted me to Bradford was having the right supervisor. I was fortunate to meet someone in my field who was willing to supervise me, and my experience of working with her and other Faculty members has been excellent.
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.
Meet our research students and alumni
Our research students come from a range of backgrounds but have a common goal; to make a difference in their specialist field.
Read a selection of our student's stories and discover their interests, ambitions, and what they hope to achieve through their research.
Olushola Kolawole
Olushola is in the final year of his PhD in Operations and Information Management at Bradford.
Natasha Micic
Natasha is studying a PhD in Computer Science, after graduating in Computational Mathematics.
Majed Yaghi
Majed is Senior Global Director at Coca Cola, and is studying the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration.
Dr Teresia Wachira
Teresia is a senior lecturer and programme leader in Nairobi, and completed her PhD in Peace Studies at Bradford.
Fees, finance and support
How much does it cost to study a research degree, and is there any support available?
Find out more about the cost of studying, how you can fund your studies, and the various support services available to all our students.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees cover the cost of your registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessment and examination.
Doctoral loans
The government provides doctoral loans of up to £25,700 to help cover your course fees and living costs while you study.
Scholarships
Every year the University of Bradford invests over £4m in scholarships to help students from all backgrounds.
Student support
MyBradford are here to help you access any support you might need throughout your time here.
Want to find out more?
Get answers to your questions about postgraduate study at Bradford:
Register for updates, make an enquiry or arrange a call with a member of teaching staff.