Program Overview

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PhD/MPhil Polymers and Composites

Overview

The Department of Materials encompasses an exceptional breadth of research and training in materials, from design and development, to performance and protection and management and marketing. Our multidisciplinary research activity covers broad, socially relevant materials themes that allow us to meet the needs of industry and society.

Entry Requirements

• The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).
• Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered.

Application and Selection

• Apply online
• In your application, you’ll need to include:
  • The name of this programme
  • Your research project title (i.e., the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
  • Your proposed supervisor’s name
  • If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
  • A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
  • Details of your previous university-level study
  • Names and contact details of your two referees

Programme Details

• Degree awarded: Doctor of Philosophy; Master of Philosophy Duration: PhD 3 Years FT; MPhil 1 Year FT

Programme Options

Full-time	Part-time	Full-time distance learning	Part-time distance learning
PhD	Y	Y	N	N
MPhil	Y	Y	N	N

Programme Description

Our research is organised into eight research themes, although research projects often involve researchers in other groups, other schools, other universities, and industry.

Polymers and composites research focuses on developing advanced polymers and multi-functional composites for a variety of applications. Research activities in this area include bio-inspired morphing composites, 3D printing polymers, self-healing polymers, stimulus-responsive polymers, microgels, hydrogels, and fluorescent gels.

A research degree from the Department and the University is held in the highest esteem and recognised worldwide. Many of our graduates work in the most prestigious institutions and organisations throughout the world. Much of the Department's research has a significant impact on society and commerce.

The Department provides first-class opportunities and facilities for our students to study specific subjects in-depth to a postgraduate research degree level. There are flexible study packages available, as well as an extensive range of postgraduate research studentships and projects, and funding, scholarships, and awards with many of our research students sponsored by a variety of Department, University, and industry resources.

Fees

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2025, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time)
  • UK students (per annum): Band A - £5,006.00; Band B - £7,400; Band C - £10,500; Band D - £15,200; Band E - £25,700
  • International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A - £29,400; Band B - £31,500; Band C - £37,300; Band D - £45,200; Band E - £59,900
• PhD (part-time)
  • UK students (per annum): Band A - £2,503.00; Band B - £3,700; Band C - £5,250; Band D - £7,600; Band E - £12,850
  • International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A - £14,700; Band B - £15,750; Band C - £18,650; Band D - £22,600; Band E - £29,950

Scholarships/Sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships, and awards at university, faculty, and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired, and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our programmes address.

• Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy

  • Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all

School/Faculty Overview

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research-led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality. Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high-quality education that prepares them for the future, and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website.