Doctor of Philosophy

A PhD is an independent piece of research and writing that presents an original contribution to existing knowledge, usually within a given discipline. The maximum length for a PhD thesis is 100,000 words. Students who gain the degree of PhD will have demonstrated:

The creation and interpretation of new knowledge, through original research or other advanced scholarship, of a quality to satisfy peer review, extend the forefront of the discipline, and merit publication;
A systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of an academic discipline or area of professional practice;
The general ability to conceptualise, design and implement a project for the generation of new knowledge, applications or understanding at the forefront of the discipline, and to adjust the project design in the light of unforeseen problems;
A detailed understanding of applicable techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.
The period of study for a PhD is:

Full-time candidates: typically 3 years; final deadline 4 years
Part-time candidates: typically 5 years; final deadline 6 years