The Graduate School

Our Graduate School is a centralised professional support service working across the University’s teams. We offer advice and guidance to our community of around 500 postgraduate researchers.

Our postgraduate researchers are engaged in MPhil and PhD degrees, PhDs by Published Work or one of our five Professional Doctorate study programmes. As a researcher with us, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get to know other postgraduate researchers and staff, network, share your ideas and enjoy social events.

The Graduate School also provides governance of postgraduate research provision. We ensure regulations are upheld and we safeguard quality and the research experience.

Our support services

  • Tailored induction days for new starters
  • A buddy programme, where we will link you with one of our current postgraduate researchers
  • Professional development workshops to develop you as researchers and as individuals.  You can pick up tips on everything from moulding your research strategy, thesis writing, presentation skills, to practical software training such as SPSS and NVivo
  • An annual postgraduate researcher conference
  • The opportunity to take part in internal and external competitions leading to the national level
  • Social events throughout the year where you can meet other researchers, share experiences and take advantage of the University’s great facilities
  • Research degree administrative advice and support linked to your progression

Distance learning

We have lots of experience supporting students who take the distance learning route. Whether you are an international student or unable to travel onto campus, you’ll still be an integral part of our Graduate School.

Overseas students may find our fee for distance learning particularly competitive, in addition to the cost savings and benefits of studying in your home country.

Find out more about distance learning

Get involved

The Postgraduate Voice Forum is a great way to get your voice heard and shape your research experience while also representing your peers. You will help us to improve our provision for researchers and collaborate to put on new and exciting events.

Contact The Graduate School

Postgraduate research and Doctoral courses

Discover how our dedicated team supports doctoral researchers. We can help you at every stage, from your application through to your PhD studies.

How to apply

Follow our step-by-step guide to applying for a research degree with us. It will help us ensure you get the right support in your specialist area.

Contact the Graduate School

in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

Top 5 for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2025

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021