Masters or PhD?

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.

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).

Masters by Research

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.

How long do they take?

Full-time students can expect to complete an MA or MSc by Research in two years, an MPhil in two-to-three years and a PhD in three-to-four years. Home/EU students may be able to study part-time, however visa regulations normally prevent international students from following this option. Some departments will require you to register initially for the MPhil, with the possibility of transferring to the PhD upon satisfactory progress. This will not increase your overall period of study.

What are the entry requirements?

Normally a good UK Honours degree (2:1 Honours or international equivalent) and in some cases, a Masters degree. If you are seeking funding through one of the Research Councils (UK/EU students only), you will need to hold a minimum 2:1 Honours degree, although often these awards are won by those with 1st Class Honours due to high levels of competition. Additional entry requirements may apply for certain research degrees and you should follow any specific guidance on the department’s website. If you are an international student, you will also need to satisfy our English language entry requirements.

Where can I find funding?

Our funding database search and deparmental webpages contain details of the latest funding opportunities. Some general information on funding can be found on the funding webpages.

How do I apply for a research degree?

Firstly you need to pinpoint your research area and identify which academics are undertaking similar research at Exeter. You may join a research team or work with an individual member of staff who can offer supervision in your chosen field. The subject entries within this website give a flavour for the research activities at Exeter and can be accessed by using the research degree index. The entries provide an overview of research in a specific subject and useful links to more information including individual department or research centre websites where you can see details about the research being undertaken and the specialisms of staff.  When you have identified if support seems to be available, please contact the appropriate department to discuss your application.