Apply Online Politics, Languages and International Studies MPhil and PhD
Qualifications and durations
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programme will enable you to conduct supervised research into your chosen topic and produce a written thesis (typically up to 70,000 words). You can complete the MPhil in 1 to 3 years (full-time) or up to 4 years (part-time).
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme comprises a more significant piece of research which will enable you to contribute to the academic community through a larger written thesis (typically up to 90,000 words). You can complete your PhD in 2 to 4 years (full-time) or up to 6 years (part-time).
Overview
Dr Susan Milner provides an overview of the PhD in Politics, Languages and International Studies at the University of Bath. Current students Milena Romano and Syed Shah share their PhD experience.
Most students are registered in the first instance for the degree of MPhil. Students are expected to carry out supervised research at the leading edge of their chosen subject, which must then be written up as a substantial thesis. The transfer from MPhil to PhD is subject to students passing an assessment process which normally involves submission of written work and an oral examination.
The final stage of the PhD degree is the oral or viva voce examination, in which students are required to defend the thesis to a Board of Examiners.
Doctoral Training Centre
This programme is recognised as being part of the following ESRC-funded South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP) Political Science & International Studies discipline-specific pathway.
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
- First or 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate subject, from a recognised university.
- When considering applications, we also take the following into account: extended and responsible experience in a relevant field in commerce, or industry, or in teaching, or in a government establishment, together with authorship of papers or other work of an acceptable academic standard, e.g. published translation.
English Language requirements
Certificates must be dated to within two years of the start of the programme of study.
- IELTS 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each of the four components)
- PTE Academic of 62 with no less than 59 in any component
If you wish to improve your English proficiency before commencing your studies, pre-sessional language training can be arranged through the Academic Skills Centre.
References
- Two references are required. At least one of these should be an academic reference.
How to apply
You can apply to study online.
If developing your own proposal (as opposed to applying for a pre-defined research project) the Department of Politics, Languages & International Studies recommend that you develop the draft 2,500 to 3,000 word Research Proposal before contacting the prospective supervisor which will form the basis for discussing your research project.
Financial information
Costs
- Tuition fees
- Estimated Living Expenses including a Sample Budget Guide
- Cost of Printing final Soft-, and then Hard-Bound theses
Potential sources of funding
- Studentships and Scholarships and How to apply for research postgraduate funding
- Guide to searching for postgraduate funding
Deadlines
- Funding deadlines for Studentships and Scholarships
Contact
Email: doctoraladmissions@bath.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1225 385949
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