PhD enquiries and applications

Birmingham Newman University offers PhD and MPhil degrees in partnership with Liverpool Hope University.

As a research student, you will be registered with both institutions and work towards a Liverpool Hope University research award while being fully supported by Birmingham Newman’s Graduate School.

We welcome applications from students interested in full-time or part-time study who meet the University’s entry requirements.

Research degrees

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

The MPhil is a prestigious research degree in its own right. It involves a substantial research project, though with a narrower scope than a PhD. It is ideal for students seeking to explore a focused research question or prepare for doctoral study.

MPhil students will demonstrate:

• A systematic understanding of knowledge and critical awareness of current issues
• Originality in applying knowledge and research techniques
• The ability to evaluate and critique existing research and propose new insights

Study duration:

• Full-time: typically 2 years (maximum 3 years)
• Part-time: typically 3 years (maximum 4 years)
• Thesis length: up to 60,000 words

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD is an independent, original contribution to knowledge within a specific discipline. It demonstrates your ability to design and conduct advanced research, critically engage with scholarship, and produce work of publishable quality.

PhD students will demonstrate:

• The creation and interpretation of new knowledge through original research
• A deep understanding of a substantial body of knowledge at the forefront of the field
• The ability to design and adapt research projects in response to emerging challenges
• Mastery of advanced research methods and academic enquiry

Study duration:

• Full-time: typically 3 years (maximum 4 years)
• Part-time: typically 5 years (maximum 6 years)
• Thesis length: up to 100,000 words