Types of research degrees
At Leeds Beckett University, we offer a range of postgraduate research degrees that provide research training, enhanced employment opportunities and the chance to develop advanced skills and expertise in a specific area of interest to you.
MASTERS BY RESEARCH (MRES)
If you are looking to take your first steps in research, then an MRes programme could be ideal. It is a stepping stone between undergraduate and PhD-level research. It is particularly suitable if you are moving into a new subject area and want to explore different career or academic research options. Further information can be found here.
1-2yrs
One year full-time, two years part-time
MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY (MPHIL)
An MPhil research degree is a masters qualification completed to the same academic quality as a PhD. It is ideal for those wanting to complete their degree in a shorter time period than a PhD. You will gain a significant grounding in research methods and skills that will equip you to have a successful career in your field of study or to continue your studies and complete a PhD.
3-4yrs
Three years full-time, four years part-time
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (PhD)
A PhD is awarded on the successful completion of a programme of supervised research. It is assessed via a thesis (of up to 100,000 words) and a viva voce (an oral examination). You will contribute new knowledge to your field and you will disseminate your findings by means of peer-reviewed output and a thesis. Throughout your PhD journey, you will be supported with a programme of research training to enable you to develop transferable skills for your future career path.
3-6yrs
three years full-time, six years part-time
Doctor of Philosophy in Creative Practice
A Doctor of Philosophy in Creative Practice (PhD Creative Practice) is awarded to a candidate who has satisfactorily completed, or been exempted from, an approved programme of research training; has investigated or critically studied an appropriate topic resulting in a significant contribution to knowledge; and has presented a satisfactory substantial body of creative work and a contextual thesis. The candidate is required to defend the thesis by oral examination.
3-5yrs
three years full-time, five years part-time
PHD BY EXISTING PUBLISHED WORK
This option is available to Leeds Beckett staff and alumni only.
There is also an option to submit for a PhD by Existing Published Work. For this award, you will already have a series of original creative works – typically, academic or professional journal papers - that make a significant contribution to knowledge in your area of expertise. You will produce an abridged review that links the works. Together, this review and the existing published work, form the thesis you will defend by oral examination.
DOCTOR OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES (DPROF)
DProfs are specifically designed to meet the needs of professionals. They are an opportunity to investigate or critically study a topic of interest. A DProf is ideal if you are seeking recognition and further development at the highest level, whether professionally or in academia.
4yrs
Four years part-time
DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (DBA)
Aimed at business managers and leaders, consultants and other professionals including academics, a DBA offers an opportunity to gain a professional doctorate - the highest level of professional qualification available in business and management. Drawing on the work of international experts in our Leeds Business School, you will learn about the latest management techniques and research methods. The skills and knowledge you gain will equip you to improve your personal effectiveness and the performance of your organisation and those who work in it.
Further information on Professional Doctorates
5yrs
Five years part-time
DOCTORATE IN EDUCATION (EDD)
If you are an education professional, the innovative EdD will deepen your knowledge and understanding of contemporary educational issues. It is a qualification that demonstrates skill in applied research and strong professional development.
Further information on Professional Doctorates
5yrs
Five years part-time
5yrs
Five years part-time
DOCTORATE OF CREATIVE ARTS (DCA)
The DCA is a programme of research focused on the creative arts. This exciting new doctoral programme at Leeds Beckett University is aimed at both practicing artists and professionals working in the arts field. Whether you are a painter or a filmmaker, a gallery curator or working in community arts, you can study in a flexible way which suits your working life. Under the supervision of our expert staff you can develop either a practice-based project or a traditional written thesis which build on your professional practice
Further information on Professional Doctorates
5yrs
Five years part-time
DOCTOR OF PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE IN SPORT (DProf. Sport)
The title of Doctor of Professional Practice in Sport (DProf. Sport) is reserved for programmes of research focused on professional practice in sport-related subjects including Sport Coaching, Sport and Exercise Science, Sport and Exercise Physiology, Sport and Exercise Biomechanics, Sport and Exercise Nutrition, Sport and Exercise Psychology, Sport Development, Sport Business, Sport Marketing, Physical Education, and Physical Activity and Health.
Further information on Professional Doctorates
5yrs
Five years part-time
The DBA, DProf. Sport, EdD, DEng and DCA are designed for professionals working in their relevant fields. These programmes of study supplement the practical experience developed in the workplace with an advanced understanding of your subject area and significant research expertise.
PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATES IN THE SCHOOL OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT, ENGINEERING AND COMPUTING
The School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing offer a range of professional doctorates aimed at practising professionals in the built environment and engineering fields. Our professional doctorates will provide you the opportunity to demonstrate and develop advanced knowledge and skills necessary to undertake and complete a practical research and development project. Visit the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing for more details.
Further information on Professional Doctorates
5yrs
Five years part-time
9
Different research degrees
18
Research Centres and Institutes
350+
Network of Postgraduate Research Supervisors
