Research degree awards

A Research Masters is a masters level degree which incorporates taught elements and an extended research phase, including research project and dissertation, governed by research degree regulations. The degree is generic and can apply in any discipline across the University.

Duration: 1–1.5 years full time or 2–3 years part time.

For this award you will need to have demonstrated to examiners your ability to undertake an appropriate research programme or to produce a critical analysis of existing knowledge in a defined field. Much of the study undertaken at masters level will have been at, or informed by, the forefront of an academic or professional discipline. You will have shown originality in the application of knowledge, and you will understand how the boundaries of knowledge are advanced through research. You will be able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, and you will show originality in tackling and solving problems.

Duration: 1–3 years full time or 2–6 years part time.

PhD research makes a contribution to the current knowledge of a subject and should be worthy of publication in whole or part. Doctorates are awarded for the creation and interpretation of knowledge, which extends the forefront of a discipline, usually through original research. Holders of doctorates will be able to conceptualise, design and implement projects for the generation of significant new knowledge and/or understanding. Holders of doctorates will have the qualities needed for employment requiring the ability to make informed judgements on complex issues in specialist fields, and innovation in tackling and solving problems.

Duration: 2–4 years full time or 4–8 years part time.

Similar to the PhD, Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a research degree available with the Faculty of Health for qualified doctors registered with the GMC and working in a clinical setting within the UK. The degree can be undertaken part time alongside clinical commitments. As well as the undertaking of a research project, it offers a range of professional skills courses designed to support your thesis and personal development.

Duration: 1–3 years full time or 2–4 years part time.

A Professional Doctorate is an advanced programme of study and research which, whilst satisfying the University criteria for the award of doctorate, is designed to meet the specific needs of a professional group external to the University, and develop individuals to work within a professional context. The award titles of each Professional Doctorate will reflect the relevant profession. The award titles currently approved by the University are:

This degree programme enables candidates who have been research active to submit a collection of previously published works for consideration for the award of a PhD. The submission must evidence that you have personally made a systematic study; that you have shown independent, critical and original powers; and that you have made a distinct contribution to knowledge. The submission as a whole must be framed as a single coherent research project.

You are able to register for a PhD on the Basis of Prior Published Works in all of the University's postgraduate research areas .

For full details of how to apply and what the programme entails, please read the section ‘AWD2 PhD on the Basis of Prior Published Works’ in the University regulations .

When you are ready to make an application, please complete this expression of interest template and return it to research.degree.admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.