What is postgraduate study?

Research degrees

A research degree involves carrying out an in-depth study of a particular topic.

At the University of Exeter we offer four types of research degree: MA or MSc by Research; Master of Philosophy (MPhil); Doctor of Philosophy (PhD); and professional doctorates.

If you're considering a research degree in the UK, we recommend viewing our online resource which provides lots of useful information and advice:

Considering a UK PhD: your next steps

Follow the links below for further information:

Masters by Research (MScby Res; MAbyRes)
Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Professional Doctorates

You may also be interested in our frequently asked questions about research degrees.

Masters by Research (MScby Res; MAbyRes)

The MA or MSc by Research offers the opportunity to obtain a research degree, without the commitment of a longer-term PhD. Not to be confused with the taught MRes degree, it’s ideal for those in employment interested in pursuing a specific shorter-term research project. Successful students have the option to transfer to an MPhil or PhD on completion.

MPhils and PhDs

Research degrees involve an extensive investigation of a particular topic. The MPhil, although a qualification in its own right, is often used as a route to the longer PhD. The latter is only awarded when the results make an original contribution to knowledge in the field, which is normally assessed by a written thesis and oral examination. If you already have a portfolio of suitable quality published work which demonstrates a coherent research direction, you may be eligible for the PhD by Publication. This option reduces the study duration and you will work with a supervisor to produce an integrating chapter explaining how the publications form a coherent whole.

A research degree usually involves the completion of a written thesis, however alternatives to this may be allowed where it is deemed suitable, this may include the presentation of part or all of the thesis in an alternative format, eg as a multimedia document or by means such as a piece of art, or a record of professional practice in the form of a series of case-studies, which must be accompanied by a commentary. If you might be interested in completing a thesis by alternative submission please contact the appropriate department to discuss whether this would be appropriate during the application process.

There are opportunities to study for a University of Exeter PhD without residing locally: in some circumstances it may be appropriate for you to study with us whilst registered as a distance-learning student, or if you have access to appropriate academic facilities, as a split-site student. All off-campus students receive supervision and support from our staff and are normally expected to attend the University for limited periods.

A PhD is the highest qualification that a university can award and offers a challenging and exciting opportunity to work at the cutting-edge of research: if you have these qualities we can offer a very supportive environment in which to pursue research. At Exeter, students are also given support through our Researcher Development Programme.

Professional doctorates

Professional doctorates combine a significant taught element with production of a research thesis, and are designed to help members of specific professions develop both their academic and professional knowledge (eg educational psychologists, clinical psychologists, teachers and lecturers).