Program Overview

PhD Psychology

Overview

A member of staff, expert in the chosen field, is directly responsible for guiding and supporting your research programme. As a research student you'll become part of our thriving academic community.

A PhD, by definition, is an original contribution to knowledge. A research degree is different from a taught course. Research students are expected to self-direct their learning with support from a supervisory team. The teaching and learning style at PhD level takes the form of 1:1 supervision, e-learning and workshops.

Research Excellence

In the most recent Research Excellence Framework Psychology was rated:

• 60% of our research was awarded 3* out of 4* - 'very considerable impacts in terms of their reach and significance'
• 85% of submitted publications to be internationally recognised, internationally excellent or world leading.

Our research has made a difference at many levels: influencing policy and creating new commercial capabilities. Our scientists work in multidisciplinary teams to target major societal challenges in the areas of human health, well-being, performance and behaviour. We apply theory in theses areas to contemporary real world issues by undertaking innovative and rigorous science.

Mode and Duration

• Full-time: 3 years
• Part-time: 5 years
• Distance learning: 6 years

Start Date

• January
• April
• September

Application Code

• Full-time: 9018
• Part-time: 9036
• Distance learning: 9074

Application Method

• Direct to LSBU

Entry Requirements

Applicants for a Research Degree programme at LSBU are usually expected to have a good honours degree (2:2 and above) and a relevant postgraduate qualification, preferably a merit at Master's level. Please also supply two academic references as part of your application. You will also be required to show proof of all of your qualifications. If English is not your first language you will be required to prove your competency in English, showing an IELTS score of at least 7.0 at postgraduate level. You will be invited to an interview with your potential supervisor, in person or by telephone, prior to an offer being made.

Fees

Full-time

• UK: £5,010
• International: £17,600

Part-time

• UK: £3,006
• International: £10,560

Distance Learning

• UK: £5,010
• International: £5,010

Bench Fees

Bench fees are a standard part of the PhD fee structure at most reputable institutions and are in addition to the main course fees. They cover study related costs such as specialist equipment, study participant fees, research related travel, lab and research consumables, etc. The bench fee for the PhD Psychology is £1,800 per annum.

Research Skills Development

All research students are required to participate in a Key Skills Development programme aimed at developing transferable skills in addition to those employed in carrying out research. Training in research methods is available through frequent research seminars.

When necessary the research student can follow, in part, relevant Masters courses available within the School and in particular units on research methodology. In some cases, research students are encouraged to follow other courses available within the University or externally aimed at improving their general expertise in their chosen areas.

In addition, they may be encouraged to follow language courses aimed at improving their oral and written skills - both essential in their future careers.

Transferable Skills

A research degree will equip you with many transferable skills. The self-discipline, the demand for clear analytical thinking, and the ability to turn criticism of others work into something constructive of your own, all constitute a unique training for almost any kind of career. The excitement and satisfaction of finding new facts, a new idea, or a new way of looking at something can be highly rewarding.

Attending Conferences

Research students are often sponsored to attend national and international conferences and to meet leading scientists in their fields and to present their research findings. The progress of all research students is formally monitored by the University's Research Degree Committee.