Postgraduate Research
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Research Degree (PhD)
These are degrees by research alone, with a high level of research training.
- You will produce a thesis, which at PhD level is a work of original scholarship worthy of publication in a learned journal
- You work closely with your supervisors who will provide guidance and support
- Most of our research degrees can be undertaken by full- time or part-time study
- Standard PhDs are three years in duration (six years part-time)
- You will register for a number of formal research training modules, which will help you develop skills you need to carry out your research and broaden your generic skills as a professional researcher
- Most research degrees require a good first degree (usually at least a 2:1) or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject – some also require additional criteria such as relevant work experience
Research Degree (MPhil)
These programmes comprise of a thesis on a specified research topic, together with a selection of taught modules. They offer a broad training in the skills and techniques of contemporary research and can be taken as stand-alone degrees or as a step towards a higher research qualification. MPhil programmes are usually one year in duration, two years part-time.
Doctorate in Medicine (DM)
The DM programme is designed to accommodate applicants from a variety of sources including medically qualified trainees (beyond F2 grade) on a 4 to 7-year rotation, with adequate time remaining to complete the DM programme.
The award is at Doctoral level in line with the National Qualifications Framework. The DM carries precisely the same academic weight as a PhD, as do Keele professional doctorates. However, the structure makes it more relevant to the circumstances of the main market for the programme, SpRs and GPs.
The DM is examined principally on the basis of a thesis, and the examiners are individually appointed for that thesis. All trainees will receive training in research, and need already to have a specialist clinical background.
Professional doctorates
Professional doctorate programmes are increasingly the choice of professionals in a number of fields, particularly health and education.
Professional doctorates are more structured programmes divided into two stages. Stage 1 is a 2 year programme of research training and interaction with a cohort of peers. This is formalised within modules which have assessment, though the number of credits and modules will vary with the programme. At the end of Stage 1 there is a progression process before participants may commence to Stage 2.
Stage 2 (minimum 2 years) constitutes the research project which is based on the participant’s professional practice. Research findings should be broadly transferable to the workplace. The final degree is awarded on the basis of a thesis which sets out the definition, purpose, methods, results and conclusions of the research project in the same way as for a PhD.
