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.

Work with respected experts

Join an innovative research cluster focusing on societal, cultural and political issues.

Choose from our flexible pathways

Flexible programmes include full-time, part-time and distance learning research degrees.

Get personal and professional training

We provide a comprehensive development programme for research students.

Play a part in local projects

Contribute to public lectures, performances, film screenings, fairs and more.

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.

  • Anti-poverty strategies
  • Community engagement and development
  • Crisis and disaster planning
  • Devolution and devolved governance
  • Education policy
  • Housing and health
  • Public sector management
  • The social value and use of arts in community work
  • The role of the Third Sector in delivering public services
  • Urban regeneration

Qualifications you can study

You can do a research degree on campus or remotely through distance learning. Choose from one of these programmes:

  • PhD Politics — 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 postgraduate researchers 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 postgraduate researchers 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