Management Distance Learning PhD and MPhil
Our distance programmes offer a more flexible way to study for a research degree - allowing you to undertake a University of Leicester PhD or MPhil wherever you are based in the world.
The distance learning PhD/MPhil programme is ideal for those who are based away from Leicester or who want to combine working for a research degree with their professional and personal commitments.
As with the campus based PhD/MPhil programme, you will undertake a substantial research project that is written up as a thesis of 80,000 words (PhD) or 50,000 words (MPhil) and defended in an oral examination (the "viva voce" examination).
Entry Requirements
Applicants for the distance learning PhD/MPhil in Management must meet the University's standard academic entry requirements and English language requirements.
Fees
These are the total course fees. The amount of tuition fee set for the year when you register is the total amount that you will pay for your studies. Whether it takes three years or up to six years, the fee remains the same.
2013/14
Distance Learning PhD/MPhil Description
PhD candidates on distance learning programmes can complete their degree in a minimum of three years. Those who need longer to complete their degree can take up to six years.
The distance learning MPhil can be completed in a minimum of three years and a maximum of five years.
There is no difference between the distance learning PhD/MPhil qualification and the campus based equivalents and both degrees are recognised internationally.
Supervisory Support
Research Skills Training
We have nearly twenty years' experience in supporting distance learning postgraduates.
Distance learning PhD/MPhil candidates undertake a structured programme of research training, delivered entirely through a combination of module books and interactive tasks, readings, and discussion through the University's online virtual learning environment.
The training covers core skills including:
- Requirements of the PhD/MPhil degrees and expectations for the thesis
- Finding and reviewing academic literature
- Formulating and refining research questions
- Research ethics
- Academic writing
- Philosophy of Social Science
- Quantitative research and analysis
- Qualitative research and analysis
University Resources
You'll also have access to the University Library's online resources for distance learning researchers including remote access to some 18,000 electronic journals, books, and databases.
Visiting Leicester
Distance learning PhD/MPhil candidates are registered as Advanced Postgraduates for the first twenty-four months of their degree. Effectively this is a probationary period over which you will complete your research skills training and your overall suitability for a PhD/MPhil programme will be monitored.
At the end of this period candidates have their progress assessed and, subject to this being satisfactory, can then continue with their degree.
You will be required to visit Leicester both for your APG status review and for your viva exam at the end of your degree. You are not required to visit Leicester at any other time, but distance learners are welcome to do so should they wish to:
- meet their supervisors or fellow researchers
- use facilities such as the University Library
- attend training sessions or other University events for researchers
Applications and Further Details
Applications for the distance learning PhD/MPhil can be submitted online and should include a full research proposal:
- Search our staff research interests to make sure we offer PhD/MPhil supervision in the area you want to work in
- Draft a research proposal that tells us what you want to research, how you intend to do it, and why it is worth doing
- Prepare your supporting documents
- Submit your postal application (sorry - online application is not available)
If you have any questions about the distance learning PhD/MPhil or about PhD/MPhil supervision in the School of Management, please contact us.
