Postgraduate research degrees
Study for a PhD, research masters or professional doctorate at the University of Plymouth
The University of Plymouth offers a range of postgraduate research degrees across all areas of our world-leading research – from digital art and dance to dentistry and geochemistry.
There are about 1,000 postgraduate researchers registered with the University, the majority of whom are located on the main campus. Others are based at our partnership ‘nodes’ around the world.
We are committed to diversity and equality and to supporting the development of all of our researchers – not just in order to successfully complete your degree programmes but to enter the world of work thereafter.
The University’s Doctoral College is the hub for all research degree processes – from enquiries and application processes to the award of degrees. It aims to stimulate and facilitate a vibrant intellectual environment across and between disciplines for postgraduate, as well as early career postdoctoral researchers, allowing each individual to reach their full potential.
We are also members of a number of doctoral training partnerships which offer exciting consortium-based training opportunities as well as funded studentships in certain areas. These include the Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC)-funded 3D3 Centre for Doctoral Training as well as the ESRC South West Doctoral Training Partnership, together with the Universities of Exeter, Bath, Bristol and UWE.
As a postgraduate research student, you will join a vibrant, supportive and forward-thinking community, that is committed to meeting global challenges in creative and imaginative ways.
Please do not hesitate to contact us at doctoralcollege@plymouth.ac.uk to explore the opportunities available to you.
Professor Richard Yarwood
Director of the Doctoral College
Postgraduate research areas
Find out more about the areas in which we supervise postgraduate research at both doctoral and masters levels. Here we offer a flavour of potential topics for your own research project and who to contact to discuss your options.
Postgraduate Research Coordinators
If you are thinking about becoming a postgraduate researcher at Plymouth, you are welcome to contact the Postgraduate Research Coordinators in your field of interest. They will discuss potential supervisors and answer any questions you might have.
Research degree awards
Find out the difference between our range of research degree programmes: ResM, MPhil, PhD, MD, professional doctorates and PhD on the Basis of Prior Published Works.
Postgraduate research studentships
If you cannot fund your own PhD research project then please look at our advertised studentships as they become available throughout the year. Please check the advert carefully to ensure you are eligible and what funding and support are available.
Doctoral College
A centre of expertise in postgraduate research
We work with staff and students across the entire University to ensure that our diverse community of postgraduate and postdoctoral early career researchers is offered the best possible experience. We support excellence and employability across all stages of the researcher journey by facilitating and providing first class training and excellent supervision, cohort development, networking opportunities and mentoring.
Doctoral Training Partnerships
Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTP) and Centres for Doctoral Training (CDT) are funded by UK Research Councils and provide bespoke training for postgraduate researchers.
Through working in partnership with other organisations and institutions, the University of Plymouth provides funding and training opportunities to our students.
Postgraduate and professional open evenings
Visit Plymouth to find out about the range of postgraduate and professional development opportunities for you.
Academic and professional staff are available to answer your questions and give advice, guidance and information about our programmes and courses.
Contact the Doctoral College
Postgraduate research support and research degree admissions teams:
Telephone: +44 1752 587640
4th Floor Nancy Astor, 9:00–16:30 Monday to Thursday, and 9:00–16:00 on Fridays. Closed on bank holidays.
Researcher development team:
Telephone: +44 1752 587633
3 Kirkby Terrace, 9:00–16:30 Monday to Thursday, and 9:00–16:00 on Fridays. Closed on bank holidays.