Research degrees in Education MRes / PhD
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-07-27 | 2023-04-01 |
| 2023-10-01 | 2023-07-01 |
| 2024-01-05 | 2023-10-01 |
| 2024-04-01 | 2024-01-01 |
Program Overview
Introduction:
Nottingham Trent University offers opportunities to study for a PhD by research. Supervision is available by full-time or part-time study, and can sometimes be provided by distance learning.
The University Doctoral School also runs a competitive annual competition for bursaries to undertake research degrees. A strong feature of its research degrees is the development of skills, networks and know-how necessary to build successful careers, whether you intend to stay within academia or pursue a career in another walk of life. We offer effective training and support from friendly and approachable staff, reinforced by strong collaborative links with business, public services and external academic networks.
We host education research and researchers from across the University. This cross-university approach creates a vibrant research environment with researchers engaged in work of nationally and internationally recognised quality.
We also offer an Ed D programme for students with primary interest in researching practice, who wish to broaden the horizons of their own professional work.
Supporting your studies
Carrying out research for a PhD or ProfD requires different skills from undergraduate or taught postgraduate study. You will mostly work on your own research project, but we also emphasise the importance of regular meetings with your supervisory team.
The team consists of a director of studies (who will usually have expertise in your subject area) and at least one other supervisor selected for their complementary expertise such as relevant research methods.
The Doctoral School Team will support you from your initial enquiry, through the application process and the various stages of your degree, until your viva voce examination and subsequent graduation. Once you begin your studies, you will have induction sessions to introduce you to the University, help you settle in and meet other researchers.
Researcher training
In addition to studying for a research degree, students undertaking traditional route PhDs will participate in researcher training. This combines general research training with specific topics associated with your discipline. The training focuses on the requirements of external research funding bodies and government requirements.
We also provide a structured programme of transferable skills training and career development. This is informed by the work of Vitae, the national organisation which support researchers throughout their careers.
Program Outline
What you’ll study
Research is organised around one main research group:
Education Policy and Practice
.This group plays to the research strengths of staff both within the Nottingham Institute of Education and other departments.
Some broad themes investigated by group members include the following:
Education Policy and Practice
Doctoral Supervision
Please see our Education page which includes links to staff, and their personal research profiles, who are in a position to supervise Doctoral students.
Researchers in the broad area of education work in collaboration with a range of scholars from across the academic community in the UK, Europe and further afield.
Research across the groups is funded by various bodies including Local Authorities, Government Departments, the European Union and Research Councils. These groups span a wide range of specialisms and conduct research of internationally recognised quality.
Support and supervision
During your research you will be supported by a dedicated supervision team with specialist knowledge in your field of activity. You will also have full access to student support centres, financial advice, careers advice, disability support, counselling and an accommodation service.
Careers and employability
In education the PhD opens significant possibilities for research and research-based development work in higher education and within a multiplicity of associated institutions. In addition to undertaking further research, your wide-ranging background reading, together with your highly-tuned skills of analysis and synthesis, make you a sought after individual in wide spectrum of posts. This include policy analysis, policy implementation and development, through to teaching and lecturing in a wide range of different institutions.
Your career development
Nottingham Trent University prides itself on the real-world relevance of its courses and places particular emphasis on helping students to develop the academic and practical know-how that encourages initiative, innovation and academic excellence.
All our research degrees incorporate a programme of supporting studies designed to develop knowledge and skills of all aspects of the research process, including the funding and dissemination of research. This will ensure that you have the necessary expertise to successfully complete your doctoral programme and lay sound foundations for your future career.
Participation in academic conferences, seminars and external networks will cultivate contacts, skills and knowledge essential for successful research practice. These abilities are also transferable to a wide range of other careers. Researchers are also invited to take part in our own Research Conferences giving you the opportunity to present your work and discuss with other researchers at NTU.
There are some opportunities for research students to prepare for an academic career by teaching undergraduate students or supervising laboratory work. Students may take part in the Introduction to Learning and Teaching in Higher Education training programme.
Although formal placements are not a requirement of PhDs, the University has strong links with professionals in business and industry.
There are opportunities to participate in ERASMUS overseas exchanges in some subject areas. The University has links with many other institutions such as: