Doctoral Studies - PhD

The PhD degree may be awarded for work done in any School of the University.

Doctor of Philosophy by Thesis (PhD)

Candidates for the degree of PhD pursue a research project under continuous guidance.

Research supervisors are either staff members of the University, or of one of the research units or institutions associated with the University.

The outcome of the research is embodied in a thesis written by the candidate. The doctorate is awarded if the thesis is judged to be of an appropriate standard and the research makes a definite contribution to knowledge.

Candidates are registered for the degree of their choice, although their first year is probationary.

During this time, students will acquire the specialist background to the projected research, and develop the skills appropriate to research in that field.

This may require attendance at the programme of transferable skills training or some Masters Degree coursework.

The period of study is 36 months if studying full-time, or 72 months if studying part-time.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) by composition

For study in music, the PhD and MPhil are also offered on the basis of musical composition.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) by Practice

The University offers a range of practice-led PhD and MPhil programmes in Art, Design, Architecture, and Music disciplines. Most of these programmes are offered by Edinburgh College of Art, though interdisciplinary projects which receive supervision by other areas of the University are welcomed.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Transdisciplinary Documentary Film

The PhD in Transdisciplinary Documentary Film combines traditional academic research with the production of a documentary film or multimedia portfolio.

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This article was published on Nov 8, 2011