Research degrees and doctorates
Research degrees and doctorates at Herts
Research degrees
Research degrees are well-suited to aspiring academics, researchers and professionals pursuing specialist research interests. If you want to investigate a specific topic in depth and make an original contribution to your field, a research degree may be right for you. Options include PhD, MPhil, MA by Research and MSc by Research.
Professional doctorates
Professional doctorates combine advanced research with professional practice. They enable experienced professionals to investigate real-world challenges within their field while working towards a doctoral-level qualification in areas such as business, education, engineering, healthcare and public health.
Why Herts?
Conduct research in an environment that supports curiosity, collaboration and real-world impact. From specialist supervision to researcher development opportunities, Herts provides the resources and community to help you make your mark as a researcher.
Highest KEF ranking for research partnerships
Awarded "Very High Engagement" for Research Partnerships and Local Growth and Regeneration (KEF 2025).
90% research impact rated outstanding or very considerable
Research recognised for making a meaningful difference to society, policy and practice (REF 2021).
Top 25% of UK universities for research impact
Recognised nationally for research that delivers real-world impact (REF 2021).
82% satisfaction in postgraduate research degrees
Reflects the positive research experience reported by postgraduate researchers (PRES 2025).
Explore research degrees and doctorates
Explore research degrees and professional doctorates by subject area and find the programme that aligns with your research interests, professional expertise and future ambitions.
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Accounting and finance
Explore research in accounting, finance, investment and organisational performance.
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Animation, film, games and creative media
Investigate storytelling, digital media, games, film and audience engagement.
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Art and design
Develop original research through creative practice, design and innovation.
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Biological sciences
Contribute to research addressing challenges across the life sciences.
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Computer science, AI and robotics
Investigate contemporary issues in management, leadership and organisations.
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Geography and environment
Explore research in computing, artificial intelligence and intelligent systems.
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Health, nursing, midwifery and social work
Study environmental change, sustainability and human-environment interactions.
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History and philosophy
Conduct research that informs practice, policy and healthcare outcomes.
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Law and criminology
Examine historical, cultural and philosophical questions through original research.
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Media and journalism
Investigate legal systems, criminal justice and contemporary policy challenges.
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Physics, astrophysics and mathematics
Explore media, communication, journalism and digital culture through research.
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Psychology
Tackle complex scientific questions through theoretical and applied research.
FAQs
A PhD is designed for people who want to undertake original research and make a contribution to knowledge in their chosen field. It is often suited to those interested in academic research, research-intensive careers or developing specialist expertise in a particular subject area.
A Professional Doctorate is designed for experienced professionals who want to apply doctoral-level research to challenges within their profession. It combines advanced research with professional practice, allowing students to investigate issues relevant to their workplace, sector or area of expertise while continuing their professional development.
Application requirements vary depending on the programme. Many research degree applications require a research proposal outlining your proposed area of study, research aims and methodology.
Many research degrees can be studied either full-time or part-time, allowing you to balance your studies with professional or personal commitments.
Entry requirements vary by programme and subject area. Most research degrees require a relevant undergraduate or postgraduate qualification, while professional experience may also be considered for some programmes.
Yes. Research students have access to researcher development opportunities, training, events and support through the University's research community and Doctoral College.
Professional Doctorates are designed for experienced professionals and often allow students to combine doctoral-level research with their professional practice.