Considering applying for a PhD? Explore our advice on everything you need to consider - from finding a supervisor to drafting a research proposal.
All applicants to our PhD programme should follow the simple steps below:
Before making a formal application to our PhD programme you should discuss your ideas with a potential supervisor within the School.
Your research proposal (of no more than 2000 words) is an important element of the selection process. You should work closely with your potential supervisor to develop this.
Your application will need to be supported by a number of other documents. Before applying online, make sure you have prepared the following documents:
1. Completed application form (see step 4)2. CV3. Research proposal (2000 words excluding references)4. Statement of purpose (one A4 side)5. Full transcripts6. Two academic references7. Proof of English language ability (for applicants from non-English speaking countries)
All applications are to be submitted online to the Admissions and Recruitment Office at Queen Mary, in the first instance.
Before applying for a PhD, there are a number of questions you need to consider. Most important amongst these are:
If you think your proposed project fits within the broad interests of the School, the next step is to identify a member of academic staff who may be able to supervise you, and who can help you develop your research proposal. You can do this by viewing the individual research interests listed on our staff pages, or through the find an expert tool. You can also find information by viewing the Research Centre pages.
If you think your proposed project fits within the broad interests of the School, the next step is to identify a member of academic staff who may be able to supervise you, and who can help you develop your research proposal. You can do this by viewing the individual research interests listed on our staff pages, or through the find an expert tool. You can also find information by viewing our Research Centre pages.
The research proposal should not exceed 2000 words. Bibliography, references and appendices are excluded from the wordcount. If your proposal goes over the word limit, you may be marked down.
Before making your final application, it is likely that you will need to revise your proposal several times. Whilst your potential supervisor may help you do this, it is important that you present them with as clear a proposal as you can, when you first make contact with them.
The keys to writing a strong research proposal are:
Applicants must also submit a Statement of Purpose within their application.
Candidates should use the Statement of Purpose to set out information which is NOT set out in their Research Proposal. The Statement of Purpose should be a one side A4 document, containing the following information:
We are committed to appointing only the very best candidates to our PhD programme. Applications are accepted based on their previous academic performance, the quality of their research proposal and the availability of two suitable members of staff to supervise the chosen topic. Our current entry criteria are:
We normally expect to see examples of First Class academic work (marks of 70 or above).
Borderline cases are considered when applicants have relevant work experience.
Undertaking a PhD is a serious financial commitment, and involves careful financial planning at the time of application and for the duration of the programme. Prices will almost inevitably rise and you must allow for this when planning your finances. Your costs will comprise both tuition fees and living costs.
Full tuition fee information is available on Queen Mary's tuition fee pages.
A number of University and external funding opportunities are available to PhD research students. Find out more on the University's scholarships web page.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us: