The majority of postgraduate students begin in October and are divided between our two buildings; Physics and Astronomy (Condensed Matter Physics, Radio and Space Plasma Physics, Theoretical Astronomy and X-Ray and Observational Astronomy) and the Space Research Centre (Earth Observation Science, Space Projects and Instrumentation). Their research area and project is usually decided before they commence their research, at their interview.

Our research groups vary in size, but students can expect to join a group averaging six PhD research students. Currently we have 60 full-time and part-time students. Each student is assigned a first and second supervisor from the research group who will oversee and advise on the student's work. In addition, the student will also be assigned a Personal Tutor. For more information on how the groups operate in regards to their supervision of students, please contact the Group Reps.

As part of their studies, students are required to attend two Postgraduate courses, given by members of the Department, per year. In addition, students will be expected to attend group seminars and conferences, including making presentations.

There are various opportunities throughout their studies for a student to present their work, including the Festival of Postgraduate Research held by the University.

Why study at Leicester?

By now, you should have decided what research project you would like to work on, but what other reasons are there for studying at Leicester?

International Reputation

The University of Leicester is one of the 1994-Group research universities. It also houses Europe's biggest academic centre for space research, in which space probes have been built, most notably the Mars Lander Beagle 2, which was built in collaboration with the Open University. A Leicester built instrument has been operating in space every year since 1967. Leicester Phycisists (led by Professor Ken Pounds) were critical in proving a fundamental law of Einstein's General Theory of Relativity - that black holes exist and are common in the universe. It is a founding partner of the £52 million National Space Centre. In total Leicester has the highest research income of any non Russell Group institution in the UK. The University of Leicester is one of a small number of Universities to have won the prestigious Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher Education on more than one occasion : in 1994 for physics and astronomy, and again in 2002 for genetics. The Guardian's 2008 University Guide, published in 2007, ranked Leicester 2nd in the UK for Physics and 8th for Mathematics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the starting dates?

The majority of our students begin their studies in October, however there are four registration periods in the year : January, April, July and October. Your funding may determine your start date.

How many students are accepted per year?

Providing the student can fund their studies (either through studentships, scholarships or self funding) and we have the available supervisors we don't have a fixed number of places. On average however, we take about 12 students per year.

Where will I be living?

There is a range of accommodation available to postgraduate students through the University. Alternatively, you may choose to privately rent a property.

For more information on University Accommodation please visit their website.

How does being a part-time student work?

Please note we can only accept Part Time applications from Home and EU students only. Due to current visa regulations, we cannot accept part-time overseas students, unless it is part of an agreement with their home university. Please Contact Us for further information.

Part-time students work to the same deadlines as a full-time student, except they have twice as long in which to do it. This will be explained in more detail if you are interviewed for a part time position, alternatively please send us your questions.