Research leading to the degrees of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) may be undertaken in areas designated by the University. In addition, the University offers the PhD by Published Work which is a degree awarded to members of staff of the University of Ulster or who are members of an institution which has a strong research base and who have a close collaborative relationship with the University of Ulster, in recognition of a record of research publication in books or academic journals.

The Master of Research is a preparatory one year Masters programme for those who might intend to pursue further study or a career in research, but which is also a higher level qualification in its own right. The degree of MD (Doctor of Medicine) is also available for medical practitioners who are seeking a research-based qualification. Finally, the University offers the Degree of Doctor of Science (DSc) for graduates or members of staff of the University in recognition of distinguished contributions to scholarship or original research.

For entry to MPhil/PhD applicants should hold or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study. Applicants deemed by Senate to hold an equivalent qualification will also be considered. Those unable to fulfil these requirements may be permitted to undertake a preliminary course leading to an examination of honours standard.

To be eligible to register for the PhD by Published Work, an applicant must be a member of staff of the University of Ulster or a member of an institution which has a strong research base and who have a close collaborative relationship with the University of Ulster and be able to demonstrate that the publications proposed for consideration are based on original research and constitute a significant and coherent contribution to knowledge. It is expected that successful applicants will have been active in research for a period of at least five years.

To be considered for entry to the Master of Research (MRes) Arts, programme applicants should hold or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree in a subject related to the proposed research topic. Applicants holding a qualification deemed by Senate to be equivalent will also be considered.

Entry to the MD programme is open to those who have held a medical qualification registrable with the General Medical Council for at least three years.

The University admits students on the basis of a policy of equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. The University will advertise research studentships between January and March each year and at other times as appropriate. The advertisements will appear in suitable local and national media including the internet and will include details of awards, contact names and addresses and a closing date. Studentships will also be advertised on the University website

Students are invited to apply using the online application system or through paper-based application forms which are available from the Research Office, Registry, and on the website.  Applications must be completed in full, including information on existing qualifications and transcripts, funding details or requirements, evidence of English language proficiency (where appropriate) and names and addresses of referees. It is advised that applicants discuss their research proposals with suitable members of academic staff prior to returning their application forms.

Overseas applicants must provide transcripts of their qualifications, in English as far as possible, and evidence of English language ability, if appropriate, in the form of a certificate from a UK Border Agency approved test awarded with a minimum of level B2 on the Common European Framework Reference for Languages (CEFR)*. Further details on accepted tests and levels can be found here

Applications will be forwarded to faculties for consideration. Applicants should note that all applications are judged on the following criteria:
• the applicant’s academic or equivalent qualifications
• the ability of the faculty to provide supervision in the specific area
• the reports of the referees
• the applicant’s performance at interview

Students with Special Needs

The University of Ulster welcomes applications from persons with physical disabilities.

It is University policy to assess applications from disabled persons using the academic criteria which apply to all candidates. In addition, the following matters are taken into consideration:
a) the nature of the disability and its likely effect on the applicant’s level of attainment in entrance qualifications and level of preparation for entry to the course;
b) the nature of the disability and its likely consequences for the candidate’s ability to undertake the course; and
c) the University’s ability to provide for the candidate’s special needs in relation to the particular disability and course of study.

As the University is committed to providing a suitable learning environment for all students, potential candidates are encouraged to visit the University to meet staff from Student Affairs and the appropriate faculties before submitting an application.

Unsuccessful Applicants

you are unsuccessful in your application and you consider that your application has not been dealt with fairly you can write to the Research Office detailing your concerns. Details of the appeals process will be made available to you. If you remain unhappy with the University’s response to the matters you raised you may appeal to the University Visitor. The Visitor has powers to investigate cases of alleged procedural irregularities or contravention of the basic principles of natural justice. However, the Visitor will not intervene to substitute his opinion on academic matters for the opinion of the University authorities and he will only intervene if there has been some real impropriety on the part of the University.