Why study the Pre-Sessional Preparation programme for PhD?

A full-time, on-campus degree spanning over three to four years, a standard PhD is split into three parts.

The first year sees students develop their proposal with supervisors to plan their research. The second and third years are spent gathering data and conducting research. During the final year, students write their thesis and submit it for viva, an oral examination where the student showcases their findings to a panel of academic experts.

An integrated PhD combines a one-year Masters in Research (MRes) with a three-year PhD. This type of PhD focuses on combining the taught element of a masters with the independent research of a PhD. Allowing students to explore different learning methodologies.

This type of PhD is traditionally for vocational subjects such as engineering, medicine and education. The aim of the programme is to prepare students for future employment. This means it involves more projects about real life corporate issues rather than a research thesis.

A distance learning PhD is the preferred option for those who cannot be present on campus due to work or family obligations. This type of PhD is also chosen when a selected topic requires the researcher to be in a specific location.

Students stay in touch with their supervisor through email or phone and attend their university for one or two weeks per year. A distance learning PhD takes five to six years to complete.

This PhD is also known as a higher doctorate and is granted to students who already have original published work, such as books and journal articles. Most universities in the UK only accept their own alumni for PhD by Publication.

To be eligible for this PhD, students must submit around five to eight published works with a written supporting statement of around 5,000 to 20,000 words.

A senior economist develops new data statistical models and technological innovations. They research and analyse data and trends to provide recommendations and solutions to economic issues. These are shared in reports using graphs and statistical data to showcase research findings.

A data scientist analyses raw data and turns it into information that companies can use to improve their business processes. Their main role is to analyse large data sets, create applications to translate data and identify economic patterns and develop algorithms to manage and organise data and information.

Systems engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on the design, integration and management of complex systems. The duties of a systems engineer include installing new hardware, updating computer software and troubleshooting technical problems.

Anthropologists study the origin, development and behaviour of humans. They examine the languages, cultures and physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world.

Anthropology gives graduates the opportunity to work in many different industries and allows them to use their interests in a way that benefits society.

Associate professors are faculty members at higher education institutions such as colleges and universities who conduct research, teach and attend academic conferences. Their day-to-day activities include developing lesson plans and giving lectures. Many associate professors are also student advisors.

The length of a PhD will vary depending on whether you choose to study full-time or part-time. A full-time PhD usually takes three to four years and a part-time PhD can take up to six or seven.

The typical PhD fees in the UK for international students are between £15,000 - £30,000 per year. This amount will vary depending on the university and programme you choose.

The minimum required grades will be specific to the university. You will typically need a first or 2:1 UK Bachelors or Masters degree, or equivalent, in a relevant discipline from a recognised academic institution.