Postgraduate Research Programmes
The College of Science and Engineering supports several types of research degree. To make it easier for you to choose the right degree for you, a brief explanation of the requirements and length of study for each degree is outlined below.
MSc by Research (MSc(Res))
The degree of MSc by Research is intended to be awarded for research done under supervision at a comparatively early stage in the candidate's career. An MSc by Research thesis should be a record of original research or a critical review of existing knowledge. Candidates should also demonstrate a thorough understanding of relevant research techniques. A viva examination for the MSc (Res) need only be held if the examiners deem it necessary.
Min period of study – 1/2 years FT/PT
Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
Students undertaking an MPhil are expected to make a distinct contribution to knowledge or understanding in a field of study. The MPhil culminates in a viva examination. The experience is likely to be similar to PhD study but with a more tightly defined project.
Max word count - 40,000.
Min period of study – 2/3 FT/PT
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
To qualify for the award of a PhD, a candidate must have demonstrated to a Committee of Examiners by the presentation of a thesis and by performance in an oral examination that he or she is capable of: a) pursuing original research in his or her specific field of study, and b) relating his or her results to the general body of knowledge in the field, and c) presenting his or her results in a critical and scholarly manner. In addition to the requirement for satisfactory completion of a thesis, the candidate will normally be required to attend training courses as specified by the College Graduate School. The PhD culminates in a viva examination.
Max word count - 80,000.
Min period of study – 3/6 years FT/PT
Doctor of Engineering (EngD)
Candidates present a thesis or a themed portfolio which embodies the results of the research. For a candidate permitted by the supervision team to submit a themed portfolio of a number of projects, they must be in the standard format and must include the following: i) a succinct bound summary which describes the contribution to knowledge and innovation demonstrated by the candidate; ii) clear evidence, either directly or indirectly, of the relationship between each project through demonstrable relevance to the doctoral programme.
Candidates must also pass a number of taught courses in order to obtain the award. These courses vary depending on the EngD programme of study.
Min period of study – 4/8 FT/PT (if latter is available)
PhD with Integrated Study in Mathematical Sciences
A four-year PhD programme beginning with a 9 month taught component which gives the student comprehensive training before they embark on the research component of their PhD. This programme is particularly well suited to students who do not possess the required background knowledge in the subject to begin a PhD immediately.
More details on the PhD with Integrated Study in Mathematical Sciences can be found here.
PhD with Integrated Study in Intelligent Sensing and Measurement
You will be enrolled in the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Intelligent Sensing and Measurement at Glasgow and Edinburgh Universities.
More details on the PhD with Integrated Study in Intelligent Sensing and Measurement can be found here.
The Programme of study will include a minimum of 120 credits of taught courses, and may also include a project leading to the submission of a 60 credit dissertation.
Minimum period of study 4/8 FT/PT (if latter is available)