This is the fastest route to a PhD, usually taking less than 12 months to complete. It is based on outputs that you have already produced, such as articles in peer-reviewed journals. Typically, candidates are academics with high-quality research outputs who have not previously undertaken a PhD.
You will write a commentary of up to 20,000 words that demonstrates how your research outputs have contributed to new knowledge. The outputs should represent the equivalent of at least three years of full-time work.

Ultimately the examiners have to be convinced that your methodological approaches are appropriate and that your outputs represent a significant and coherent contribution to the field.

Once you have gained your doctorate, you will be in a stronger position to progress your academic career. Increasingly, a doctorate is an essential requirement for recruitment and promotion in university teaching roles. A PhD also adds credibility in applications for research funding.

More broadly, a PhD is “probably the most internationally transferable qualification” according to the Higher Education Policy Institute. So converting your previous research outputs into a PhD makes perfect sense in terms of increasing your employability and opening up new opportunities.

Entry Requirements

This route is only suitable if your existing research or creative outputs provide clear evidence of a significant and coherent contribution to knowledge. Typically, the outputs will represent the equivalent of at least three years of full-time work.

When you apply we will ask you to write a statement of no more than 1,000 words. It should explain your contribution to knowledge, the impact within your chosen area, and a clear indication of any parts of the work that have been collaborations.

All candidates should hold at least an honours degree (first or upper second class), or equivalent.

If English is not your first language, you will need a British Council International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component: reading, writing, listening and speaking (or equivalent).

Other Fees

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