Frequently Asked Questions

A full list of tuition fees can be found on our Student Fees and Finance Website.

For students studying a research programme (PhD) the start dates are:

• 1 October
• 1 February
• 1 April
• 1 July

For students studying a MRes the start dates are:

• 1 September
• 1 February

For entry onto the PhD programme, candidates would normally be expected to hold a minimum of a 2:1 degree in an appropriate subject, or the equivalent international qualification.

For entry onto the MRes programme the minimum academic entry requirement is a 2:2 degree in an appropriate subject, or the equivalent international qualification.

English Language Requirements (PhD and MRes)

For candidates whose first language is not English, the required score is IELTS 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in any element), or a score of 87 in the TOEFL iBT (with a minimum of 20 in speaking and 19 in all other elements). Test results should be no more than 2 years old.

Candidates whose first language is not English, but who have been awarded a qualification from a recognised UK educational institution, are exempt from the English language requirement.

In the personal statement section of the University application form you can indicate either: 

1. A specific research programme (if you have very clear ideas about potential supervisors and/or research project you wish to pursue)

2. A more general indication of your research topic of interest (if you are open to considering different project areas) 

Please also describe your motivation for doing a PhD in this section.

Once an application is received an initial recommendation is usually made within approximately 2 weeks; this is due to the time needed to identify possible supervisors, and for those supervisors to interview the applicant (in person/Skype/telephone).

A complete application, including references, transcripts and proof of English language proficiency (where applicable) is needed before the University's Admissions Office can issue a formal offer of a position (some of this information can be provided after the initial recommendation by the school).

Each year the School of Life Sciences offer a limited number of competitive studentships for Home and EU students for PhD study.

The University also offers an extensive range of scholarships for EU and overseas students. 

Our graduates go on to a wide range of careers including positions in industry and teaching. The Careers and Employability Service can provide support and guidance for research students.