
2. Portfolio of original and related short projects

Self-funded
Student proposes original topic of research Student has freedom to apply for broad subject course and specify own project at university International students can apply with any project as long as they can source funding Grants or scholarships can be sourced independently from external bodies or if university department has funding Common for Arts and Social Sciences subjects
Pre-funded
Existing project by university, UK government, or independent bodies Student joins a team of researches to work on a project International applicants may not be eligible if the project uses public funding The final thesis limited to scope of existing research project Common for Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine (STEM) subjects




Contact your supervisor
You will need to contact them personally to discuss if your research aligns with the department's research interests and alternative supervisory options.

PhD Research Proposal
This is a piece of initial research ideas, motivation, and strategy you intend to produce as your final project. In the duration of your PhD, your final research is an extension of this initial outline, hence you must produce an original research proposal. This is also for universities to assess the suitability of your academic interests with their department and recommend you for funding if possible.

Application
Narrow down your options of institutes and be aware of the rolling deadline set by individual universities. Be as specific as possible in your application and Personal Statement regarding your choice of institute. You will also need at least two letters of recommendation, one of which is from an academic referee. If you have prior work or publication experience, compile this information into an Academic Resume/CV.

Our turn
Speak to one of our Education Consultants if you are still seeking options. We can help you firm up your choices and proofread your proposal and Personal Statement. Next, when we've got all the documents together, we will put in your application and you can sit back and relax while we track your application progress.
Pathways to a PhD
Programme Fees: Varies by subjects; £10,000-£25,000 per annum (full-time), £2,300-£10,000 (part-time)
Professional Doctorate
The standard PhD is an intensive to full-time course while most students on the former tend be on the part-time programme. The prior suitable students for an academic career while the latter is more suited for currently working professionals and features heavier taught components with a smaller-scale research project. Projects often revolve around a real-time issue that affects one's employer. The duration of Doctorate programmes is relatively shorter in the UK than in any other country which makes PhDs in the UK very attractive.
Eligibility
Master's degree, with Merit Bachelor's degree, with minimum grade 60+ (alternative qualifications may be accepted with additional Pre-Masters or top-up degree qualification) Research Proposal (1,500-3,000 words) IELTS 6.5+ / GCSE English (A*-C) / equivalent
PhD by Publication
This is a more unique pathway for mature students with long years of experience in industry but missed out on studying for the standard PhD. In order to receive the award, the student is required to submit their previously published works - books, book chapters, journal articles, etc - which relate to each other to form a common theme and prove to be a source of original contribution to its subject field. Some universities only accept their own graduates so please thoroughly check the criteria set by the university.
Eligibility
Bachelor's degree (at least 7 years prior) At least 5-8 previously published works Supporting statement (5,000-20,000 words)


Through our partnerships with over 100 UK universities, UKEC can help you find the best Pre-University application course to suit your needs. Our years of expertise in helping students means we can find the right course for you. We will help you examine all of our options and support you all the way to your dream education.
Ready to apply with us? Get in touch now for expert advice from one of our experienced Education Consultants.
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