Course overview
The Faculty of Engineering offers the opportunity to study for full-time and part-time MPhil and PhD degrees across each of our departments:
Our five main research divisions are:
By undertaking postgraduate level study, you will work towards the enhancement of a variety of skill sets including:
- awareness in specialised areas
- design and development of experimental techniques
- development of communication and presentation skills
- development of methodological skills
- the ability to work independently and solve problems creatively
An MPhil is also a research degree which requires the submission of a dissertation. An MPhil thesis is expected to display a good general knowledge of the field of study, and a comprehensive knowledge of some part or aspect of the field of study and a recognisable original contribution to knowledge or understanding. An MPhil degree does not usually involve an oral examination. A full-time MPhil degree is normally completed in two years.
The essence of a PhD is research, in which knowledge is extended by exploration, investigation, and contemplation. In scientific and engineering disciplines, research often implies experimentation, but research is more than mere experiments: it means interpretation and deep understanding. To be awarded a PhD, you must find new abstractions, new approaches, new algorithms, new principles, or new mechanisms. Your work must also be of a high quality that is equivalent to peers in your field.
To complete a PhD, you will present the results of your research in a formal document called a thesis or dissertation which should contain a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding. You will have to defend your work in an oral examination, known as a viva voce. A full-time PhD is normally completed in three years.
How to apply for MPhil/PhD
If you are interested in applying, we would recommend that you familiarise yourself with our research areas and staff expertise and then contact us to discuss your research project proposal with the relevant supervisor in the first instance. Please then visit our applications pages to find out how to apply.
Entry requirements
MPhil: An upper second class honours degree (or international equivalent) in computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics or other related disciplines. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.
PhD: A master’s degree (or international equivalent) with an average mark of 60% and above plus, an upper second class honours degree (or international equivalent) in computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics or other related disciplines. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.
Or
A first class honours degree (or international equivalent) in computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics or other related disciplines. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.
Applicants must have graduated from an approved university. Other equivalent qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Entry requirements in the prospectus and website may not always apply and individual offers may vary.
English language requirements
IELTS: 6.0 (no elements below 5.5)
TOEFL (iBT): 79 (minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in reading, 20 in Speaking)
PTE (Academic): 65 (with no less than 59 in each element)
MUET: Band 3
IELTS, TOEFL and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old and all IELTS must be the academic version of the test. MUET results are valid for five years from the date of the release of results.