Research degrees explained

At the University of Liverpool, we offer postgraduate research degrees and research master's degrees across a range of fields. Find out what to expect, and discover the key differences between each route.

What is a postgraduate research degree?

Postgraduate research degrees, also referred to as 'doctorates' or 'doctoral' degrees, are the highest level of qualification awarded by UK universities.

Unlike undergraduate and master’s courses, which are comprised of taught modules and assessed coursework, postgraduate research degrees centre on the completion of an independent research project. If you can self-fund or source your own funding, you'll typically negotiate a research project of your choice with a potential supervisor. Your project should be suited to the areas of expertise outlined for our self-funded research degrees. If you want to apply for a funded research project or a funded Doctoral Training Programme, your research topic and supervision will typically be predetermined.

How you'll study

Though you’ll benefit from the direction and expertise of one or more supervisors, it’s ultimately your responsibility to successfully plan, lead and manage your research project. You’ll also be expected to take advantage of broader opportunities such as publishing, communicating your research, and networking with fellow researchers, academics and industry partners.

Your research will inform the main output of your degree, which is a thesis. A thesis is a concentrated piece of original work that you're required to write and submit to successfully complete your degree. You can submit a thesis of no more than 100,000 words, or a collection of original, creative material alongside a written thesis of no more than 50,000 words that contextualises the material.

How you'll be assessed

To be awarded a doctoral qualification, you must defend your thesis in a viva voce (oral examination). This gives you the opportunity to demonstrate that your research has made an original contribution to knowledge in your field of study.

Postgraduate research degrees at Liverpool

Our postgraduate research degrees are equivalent in challenge and qualification, but there’s key differences between each route. 

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the University of Liverpool typically lasts 2-4 years (full-time) or 4-6 years (part-time). As a PhD student, you’re required to carry out independent research that presents an original contribution to knowledge within your chosen discipline. You’ll receive the support and direction of one or more supervisors with expertise in your field of study. 

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

A Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree is equivalent to a PhD in qualification and scope but is designed specifically for medical graduates. You’ll focus on research that informs your professional practice, so you can develop advanced skills, methods and approaches within the medical field.

To successfully apply for an MD, you typically need to hold a qualification registrable with the General Medical Council (GMC).

Professional Doctorates

Though equivalent to a PhD in qualification and scope, Professional Doctorates are designed for those who want to complete their studies while continuing with their career. You'll undertake research relating to your current organisation whilst developing the highest level of professional skills and knowledge related to your profession.

At the University of Liverpool, we offer the following Professional Doctorates: Doctor of Clinical Psychology DClinPsychol, Endodontics DDSc, Orthodontics DDSc, Paediatric Dentistry DDSc and Professional Doctorate in Health DProfHealth. Duration and available study modes differ.

Research master’s degrees at Liverpool

Our research master’s degrees are ideal for students interested in proceeding to doctoral study but want to experience what it’s like before committing to a PhD or an equivalent postgraduate research degree.

Master of Research (MRes)

Our Master of Research (MRes) degrees typically last 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time). It places more emphasis on research skills than a traditional postgraduate taught (master’s) degree. 

MRes degrees typically include taught modules that introduce specific subjects and relevant professional and research skills. MRes students are also required to complete a piece of research that centres around their proposed research topic.

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

A Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree at the University of Liverpool typically last 2 years (full-time) or 4 years (part-time). MPhils can be thought of as a shorter version of a PhD. As an MPhil student, you must develop and submit a thesis of no more than 60,000 words, or a collection of original, creative material, alongside a written thesis of no more than 25,000 words which contextualises the material. As with a postgraduate research degree, you'll be expected to defend your thesis in a viva voce examination.

If you wish to continue onto doctoral level study, you may be able to transfer to registration for a postgraduate research degree. The transfer must take place after the first year of registration for full-time MPhil students or the second year of registration for a part-time MPhil students, and before giving notice of intention to submit a thesis.