Olushola is in the final year of his PhD in Operations and Information Management at Bradford.
Postgraduate research degrees
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:
Postgraduate research at Bradford
Saturday 5 July 2025.
What if you could redefine what's possible?
Are you ready to pioneer groundbreaking solutions that redefine industries and societies? Join on-campus or online and explore research options, funding and support.
Types of postgraduate research degree
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The highest level of degree, the PhD is respected around the world. Supported by a supervisory team, 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.
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
73% of our research was rated internationally excellent or world leading in the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF). - Access to state-of-the-art facilities
Use the facilities across our four faculties and their respective research hubs, as well as our PGR Lounge, a dedicated space for postgraduate researchers with areas for private study, group work and socialising.
- 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 our distance learning PhDs.
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.
How we support your development
Our support and commitment to ensuring timely completion of your PhD
Your assigned supervisory team and separate Doctoral Thesis Advisory Panel will guide you through your research degree. Our dedicated catch-ups before you complete each periodic progression point will help you feel confident in your submissions and ensure you're getting the support you need.
We also have range of professional support services can help you reach your full potential, including our Counselling and Mental Health Service, Disability Service, and Chaplaincy and Multi-faith team.
The Bradford Researcher Development Framework
Enrich your skills as a researcher and enhance your future employability with our training and development opportunities, delivered by our Library Services, Academic Skills Advice, Careers and Employability, and Research and Innovation Services. You can also undertake the Bradford: Fellowships graduate scheme for a foundation to pursue a learning and teaching role within Higher Education.
Our research culture and environment
Get involved with and present at conferences and symposia throughout each academic year, including our annual Three Minute Thesis competition. Explore our student societies and groups through the students’ union. As well, consider becoming an elected PGR representative to provide a voice for fellow PGRs in your department or faculty by ensuring concerns are raised during University decision-making processes.
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.
Natasha is studying a PhD in Computer Science, after graduating in Computational Mathematics.
Majed is Senior Global Director at Coca Cola, and is studying the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration.
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 cover the cost of your registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessment and examination.
Doctoral loans
The government provides doctoral loans of up to £27,892 to help cover your course fees and living costs while you study.
Every year the University of Bradford invests over £4m in scholarships to help students from all backgrounds.
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:
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