Why you should join us

Our research degrees will help you advance or change your career, deepen your expertise, and expand your research and practical skills.

Explore Manchester’s tech scene

Welcome to the birthplace of the modern computer.

Choose from our flexible pathways

You can study full- or part-time, so our degrees fit your circumstances.

Benefit from our advanced facilities

We’ve invested in big data processing, an animation studio, a usability lab and a robot swarm.

Get personal and professional training

We provide a comprehensive development programme for research students.

Join a thriving research community

Our academics deliver cutting-edge research to improve everyday life.

Stay ahead of tech trends

Become an expert in artificial intelligence, cyber security, data science or the Internet of Things.

Our research areas

Discover our areas of expertise and browse our experts. We encourage you to discuss your research ideas with us – even if your topic is not listed.

  • Bio-inspired computing
  • Complex systems modelling
  • Computational linguistics
  • Computer games
  • Cyber security
  • Data science and big data
  • High-performance computing
  • Human-centred computing
  • Intelligent agents
  • Internet of Things
  • Machine learning and optimisation
  • Networks and distributed systems
  • Smart infrastructure and smart cities
  • Text and data mining
  • Visual computing

Qualifications you can study

Choose from one of these programmes:

  • PhD Computing and Digital Technology — three years full-time, six years part-time
  • MPhil — two years full-time, four years part-time
  • Masters by Research — one year full-time, two years part-time

Find out about the research degrees we offer.

Start dates

Most of our students enrol in October. You can also join us in January and April.

Application information

Entry Requirements

To apply, you’ll need a first or 2.1 honours degree, or an equivalent qualification.

International students must have strong English language skills.

We welcome applicants from non-standard backgrounds. We’ll take subject knowledge, professional experience, publications, or other relevant achievements into consideration.

Find out more about our standard entry requirements.

How to apply for a research degree

Discover the key steps in the application process.

Scholarships, fees and funding