Ph.D.

Requirements
Normally, you should have at least an upper second class honours degree (2.1) or equivalent in a relevant subject. A postgraduate qualification and/or some research training or relevant professional development is desirable. You will be interviewed (this may be over the telephone or online for non-UK-based applicants). If English is not your first language you will also normally need IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent).

How to Apply
Before applying for a research degree you should contact New York College Postgraduate Research Director to discuss your subject specialism and the nature of the research that you wish to undertake. This will inform you of the types of specialism that we are able to support. You can visit the web pages of the academic area.

Your application folder should include:

• An application Form (download here)
• A recent CV
• Notarised copies of diploma(s) and transcript
• A research proposal

All completed research degree application forms must be submitted to College admissions.
You must make all applications on the research degree application form following the instructions for submission on that form. Please do not make applications direct to the Research Coordinator or academic group concerned.

The New York College continues to be committed to excellence in research and encourages graduates in all disciplines to consider studying for a PhD – the highest award conferred by the university, or an MPhil. To this end, the university offers the opportunity to study for a PhD or MPhil in any subject area where we have relevant research expertise, in discussion with the Academic Group, Research Institute or Research Centre.

The PhD by thesis is awarded to a candidate who, having critically investigated and evaluated an approved topic resulting in an independent and original contribution to knowledge and demonstrated an understanding of research methods appropriate to the chosen field, has presented and defended a thesis. This PhD programme is designed for those who wish to pursue supervised research at doctoral level leading to the production of a traditional thesis which will be considered as an original and independent contribution to knowledge and justify the award of a PhD. It is possible to apply for and to be registered for the PhD either ‘direct’ or ‘via MPhil’.

Curriculum
Doctorates are awarded to students who have demonstrated:

(i) the creation and interpretation of new knowledge, through original research or other advanced scholarship, of a quality to satisfy peer review, extend the forefront of the discipline, and merit publication;

(ii) a systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of an academic discipline or area of professional practice;

(iii) the general ability to conceptualise, design and implement a project for the generation of new knowledge, applications or understanding at the forefront of the discipline, and to adjust the project design in the light of unforeseen problems;

(iv) a detailed understanding of applicable techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.

Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to:

(a) make informed judgments on complex issues in specialist fields, often in the absence of complete data, and be able to communicate their ideas and conclusions clearly and effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences;

(b) continue to undertake pure and/or applied research and development at an advanced level, contributing substantially to the development of new techniques, ideas, or approaches; and will have:

(c) the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent environments.

Research Subject Areas

The University of Bolton can support PhD/MPhil students undertaking research in the following subject areas:

• Art and Design
• Accounting and Business
• Built Environment & Civil Engineering
• Community Studies
• Computer Science
• Education
• Engineering
• English & Creative Writing
• Health & Well-Being
• Information Systems
• Islamic Finance
• Law
• Materials, Research & Innovation
• Mass Observation and Worktown Studies
• Medical, Biomedical and Life Sciences
• Photography
• Psychology
• Sport, Performance, Recovery & Rehab
• Sport Sociology and Policy
• Theatre and Performance
• Renewable Energy & Environmental Technologies

Duration

3 to 4 years (full-time)

Careers
PhD holders not only have become specialists in their chosen subject area but have acquired a set of transferrable skills and attitudes that make them highly sought after by today’s fast-developing and multinational employers. By completing a PhD you have proved mastery in critical analysis and problem-solving of the highest order, challenging long-standing view and providing alternative perspectives, project management, advanced research, leadership and mentoring skills as well as enhanced self-confidence, determination and persistence.

PhD graduates are the ‘movers and shakers’ in their working environment, the ones that employers rely on for innovation and enterprise. As a part from the prestige of earning the highest academic qualification possible, PhD graduates have more successful careers and increased earnings than any other graduate.

WHY TO CHOOSE THIS PROGRAM

• The PhD Program in Bolton Universityis designed to prepare students for research-oriented careers in universities, industry, government or public policy institutes.
• Guidance and mentorship and outstanding student support are an integral part of PhD.Postgraduate students have close interaction with the professors and faculty and learn the value of a problem-oriented approach to research
• We foster an atmosphere of collaboration between students, supervisors, professors, and academic board panel members, where students have the opportunity to present their research, give and receive feedback.
• The Department is proud of its students and graduates who conduct interdisciplinary innovative research, and have active presence in international conferences.
• All the activities of the MPhil/Ph.D. are in English. This includes lectures, seminars, workshops the Ph.D. thesis and the final defense. Also, as a postgraduate student you will have access to the equipment, facilities and expertise available at New York College and Bolton University