Take the opportunity to pursue an individual research project of your choosing full-time or part-time, with expert guidance and personal supervision from a member of our history team.
Overview
This doctoral programme is suitable for people who have a particular research question or topic in mind, and wish to explore this through independent study in order to produce an original contribution to the subject. If you aspire to a research career this is the most appropriate research degree to undertake.
If you do not already have a masters degree, you may be interested in one of our masters level research degrees.
You will be guided by a small supervisory team of academic experts under the direction of a Director of Studies. You will be expected to fully engage with skills development and training and to present your research in a range of scholarly contexts.
Your PhD will be assessed via submission of either a written thesis (approximately 80,000 words), or one that combines critical writing with artistic, creative and/or professional practice, and a viva voce (an oral examination).
Full time: 2-4 years
Part time: 4-8 years
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
January 2027
Plymouth Campus
Drake Circus,
Plymouth,
Devon,
PL4 8AA, Southern England, United Kingdom
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
October 2026
Plymouth Campus
Drake Circus,
Plymouth,
Devon,
PL4 8AA, Southern England, United Kingdom
Masters degree or equivalent from a UK higher education institution in a relevant subject. Students who are making exceptional progress in a ResM programme, may progress directly into our PhD programme without having to complete the masters.
Applicants normally have to supply a research proposal, personal statement, and occasionally evidence that they are prepared to undertake the proposed project. This may include a portfolio, or a sample of critical writing, depending on their area of study.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
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The University of Plymouth has been ranked 5th best modern UK university for teaching (THE, Young University Rankings 2024).
