Research degree students
The University has a thriving population of research students who form an essential and valued part of the research culture. There are approximately 500 research students in total - many of whom are international students from over 90 countries around the world, where our reputation for postgraduate work is well established.
The concept of starting a research degree and all it encompasses can be like stepping into the unknown. Here at the University of Hertfordshire, we support our students through every step, from putting you in touch with our academics who have expertise in your chosen field to supporting you through the viva examination and finally shaking your hand at the graduation ceremony!
Research Degrees handbook
Entry requirements
To register for any form of research degree, you should normally hold a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in the proposed study area. However, we are pleased to consider applicants who can demonstrate their capability by means of publications or employment responsibilities.
Fees and funding
The level of fee you will be expected to pay depends on your registration status (e.g. full-time, part-time, writing-up) and programme (e.g. PhD, Professional Doctorate). Fees are charged on an annual basis and payable throughout the duration of your registration. For more information see our research degree fee tables.
Funding may be available in various subject-specific areas while you are studying at the University of Hertfordshire, please see our dedicated research page under Bursaries and Scholarships.
The University offers a limited number of research studentship programmes normally leading to the award of PhD, see below for more details. Any queries regarding fees should be directed to the Research Office
Awards
Across a wide range of subject areas, there are several research degree awards for you to choose from.
More about the research degree awards we offer at the University of Hertfordshire.
Taught
The University of Hertfordshire offers a number of postgraduate taught degrees, for information on these see Courses - postgraduate
Study modes
You can study either full-time or part-time for your research degree. If you register for a professional doctorate you would normally study part-time, since most of the professional doctorates necessarily involve continuing professional practice. However, full-time routes are available for the DClinPsy and MD.
Support
You will be supported in your research through programmes of related studies and will normally have the opportunity to discuss what kind of support would be most beneficial for you. The Professional Doctorates typically involve some elements of study with other research students, which will offer you additional support in your research work.
Transferable skills
As a research student, you benefit from the formal training we offer to all research students and staff through a University-wide programme of seminars and workshops - the Generic Training for Researchers. As well as supporting you by providing knowledge and skills that will help you progress successfully through your research degree studies, this free programme of events is designed to help equip you for a future career.
Supervision
We are committed to the quality of research supervision, and all research degree students are supervised by teams of appropriately experienced supervisors. In addition there are Research Tutors in Faculties who can act in a general advisory capacity. The Professional Doctorates involve different kinds of professional supervision as appropriate.
Studentships
The University offers a limited number of research studentships for programmes normally leading to the award of PhD. You are advised to enquire about the possibility of a studentship when you are discussing your research with the Research Institute as part of your application process and check the information under Research degree studentships.
Disabled students
The University of Hertfordshire welcomes students with disabilities and is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity so you can study successfully and fully enjoy University life.
The University's Open Days are accessible for disabled people if you would like to have a look around the campuses and facilities before applying. If you prefer to arrange a personal visit, or you want to discuss any specific requirements, please contact:
Lena Kloos
Disability Officer
tel/txt +44 (0) 1707 284454
email disability@herts.ac.uk
Disabled applicants are strongly encouraged to disclose their disabilities when applying to the University. This information helps us to agree and plan any support and adjustments that you may require. Information about students’ disabilities will be used as outlined in the University’s Disclosure Statement available on the website.
More about equality and diversity policies