How to Apply
For details of how to apply for fully or partly funded studentships advertised between 14 March and 26 April 2013, please refer to our research studentships 2013/14 page for more information.
Applications can be made for research study at any time of the year, normally to commence at the start of the academic year or calendar year. Our Research Degree digital prospectus provides an introduction to the research areas offered at Northumbria, in subject groupings and as described by students, staff and graduates.
Initial Enquiries
Applications are assessed based upon academic excellence and other relevant experience, and how closely the research proposal aligns with Northumbria’s key research areas. Before applying, follow the ‘Enquire now’ link on this page to make an initial enquiry. This is so we can put you in contact with academic and administrative staff in the appropriate subject area that can provide advice and support prior to a formal application. If you have any questions relating to the programme content, you will be offered the chance to discuss them with a member of our research staff once you have submitted your enquiry.
Research Degrees - Enquire now!
Applications
Following your enquiry you may be invited to submit the following:
• An application form
• Evidence of academic qualifications
• Evidence of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English
• A research proposal, outlining your area of research. Research staff will be able to provide further advice. In some cases, applicants are invited to apply to a specific research vacancy with a pre-defined research proposal.
A research administrator will provide the appropriate link to complete your application and submit your proposal and supporting documents online.
Entry Requirements
Usually applicants are expected to have at least an upper second class Honours degree (UK) or equivalent from an overseas university, or a Masters degree in a relevant discipline. Applicants who do not hold these qualifications must demonstrate equivalent intellectual competence possibly referenced by appropriate experience to the satisfaction of the relevant University committee.
For applicants whose first language is not English, you will need to meet our minimum scores for research programmes and the minimum component scores for degree level and above courses. If you do not have the correct level of English language proficiency, Northumbria also offer pre-sessional English programmes throughout the year. For further details regarding our minimum English language requirements and English programmes visit http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/brochure/international/eng_lang/
Applicants to Professional Doctorates programmes should note that in some cases, 150 credits of advanced standing may be awarded against their existing Masters qualification, where the applicant has appropriate experience of practice in line with the University Professional Doctorate Framework and/or evidence of appropriate continuous professional development.
What Happens Next
Provided applicants satisfy our entry requirements and the research proposal aligns with Northumbria’s research areas, applicants will be required to undertake an interview. This may be conducted on a face-to-face basis, by telephone or by video conferencing.
A successful interview will normally result in referees being contacted and if satisfactory references are obtained, an offer is usually made in writing.
