Postgraduate Research Degrees

Undertaking a research degree allows you the freedom to study a topic of interest in-depth, with the help of two academic supervisors. The school's vibrant international environment provides an ideal home for research.

Students are encouraged to play an active role in the school's research centres and institutes as well as the activities of the school as a whole.

Our research students are offered excellent facilities and support, including:

• two supervisors and additional support through membership of one of the school's research centres
• a dedicated workspace, equipped with a networked computer
• a generous photocopying and printing allowance
• the opportunity to apply for funding to attend workshops and conferences

A weekly Research Student Colloquium runs during term-time, and serves to bring the research student community together on a regular basis. Organised by students and facilitated by the Director of Postgraduate Research, it acts as a supportive form for presenting work in progress and advancing research.

Research degree opportunities

View our course pages on the University prospectus:

• Politics PhD
• Politics and International Relations MRes
• International Relations PhD
• Social Science Research Methodology PhD

Part-time/mature study

The school welcomes applications by mature students. The PhD itself can also be undertaken as part-time study, consisting of six years research plus two years writing-up. Doctoral research can also be undertaken through long distance study. It is, however, the obligation of the student to come to the University of Nottingham several times per year for face-to-face supervisions.