Candidates may pursue research leading to a PhD (minimum registration: two years full-time; three years part-time) or MPhil (minimum registration: one year full-time; two years part-time).

Candidates are normally expected to obtain a good honours degree (2.1 or above) in a course containing a sufficient psychology component to qualify for the Graduate Basis for Registration of the British Psychological Society (this may be waived in special circumstances). All research students are required to attend a program of lectures, seminars and demonstration classes designed to provide a solid background in research methodology in psychology. Training in information technology, presentation skills and thesis preparation is also provided.

Funding is available from the research councils and other sources. In addition, the University of Leicester advertises Open Research Scholarships as well as occasional project-linked studentships.

ESRC PhD studentships

The School of Psychology is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as eligible for 1+3 and +3 studentships. Under the 1+3 scheme, suitably qualified candidates can apply through the School for either four years funding (covering fees and subsistence) to undertake a Masters in Psychological Research Methods followed by a three year PhD.

Alternatively, applicants who already possess an appropriate Masters qualification can apply under the +3 scheme for three years PhD funding. The deadline for applying for 1+3 and +3 funding to commence in October is normally the beginning of May. Potential candidates should contact the School as far in advance of this deadline as possible.

Further information concerning ESRC PhD studentships are available from the ESRC Society Today website.

If you are thinking of doing a PhD, one of the first steps is to identify a suitable supervisor via the Research Interests link on our research homepage. Information about the School's research facilities is also available.

Next step: request an Information and Application Pack

For more information on our PhD/MPhil degrees see our PDF brochure. Information about University facilities and resources may be found in the University of Leicester Postgraduate Prospectus.

Applications and enquiries

Application forms and a copy of the postgraduate prospectus can be obtained by emailing psychology@le.ac.uk, or by writing to the school secretary.