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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:

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Postgraduate Virtual Open Day

Wednesday 9 October 2024, 16:00 - 19:00 (BST)

Join us online to find out about research degrees, funding, and life as a postgraduate student at Bradford.

Research at Bradford

Are you looking to take the next step in your career or change direction entirely? Whatever your ambitions, Professor Chris Gaffney — our Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation — explains why Bradford is the place to study your postgraduate research degree.

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
    73% of our research was rated internationally excellent or world leading 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.
Student Olushola facing the camera and leaning with his shoulder on a mirror. His reflection is visible in the mirror.

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.

Olushola Adeborode Kolawole, PhD Operations and Information Management

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 is in the final year of his PhD in Operations and Information Management at Bradford.

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.

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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