Study for your PhD. Postgraduate doctoral degrees in Brighton, UK

What will your PhD experience be like?

At the University of Brighton we recognise that a PhD is more than a qualification or a completed thesis. It's a profound experience and we are here to help you make the most of it.  

As you pursue studies at the highest level, you will also have opportunities to build an experience that you will treasure for the rest of your life. 

Many students make life-long friends through their collaborators, supervisors and fellow academics at the university. Their work introduces them to a global community of like-minded scholars. They are moved, uplifted, intrigued and challenged on the way to completing their research degree and moving forward with their new skills and knowledge.

If you believe Brighton could be the place for your PhD experience, get in touch.

Can I become a researcher? 

There is no 'standard' background for student researchers and it is never too late. Indeed, we welcome those keen to return to study after a break from academia, especially where professional skills and experience can be part of their successful research.

So, yes, you can become a researcher - as a student and perhaps as a profession. Your journey starts with a deeper understanding of what research is and its methods and techniques. This will come as you work with the expert supervision of your research project at the university. 

You will also gain advice and experience towards beginning a rewarding career whether that means continuing in research and academia or using your new skills and knowledge in other industries, institutions or areas of impact.

At the University of Brighton you will find a welcome, encouraging environment, expert supervision and many opportunities to develop your individual research project.

Read more about our commitment to diverse research and the opportunities to be a researcher.

Can I be a researcher? This film was produced at the University of Brighton with the kind participation of staff and student researchers.

A PhD in the UK: the extra 'Brighton' factor. 

Universities in the UK are world-leading in the development and provision of PhD degrees. At the University of Brighton, we offer a high level of personal support, a welcoming, cross-disciplinary postgraduate community and research environments that focus on high impact and real-world change.

Brighton itself is a city renowned for its liberal and creative thinking. With both historic and modern quarters, it is one of the most lively and diverse cities in the United Kingdom.

London and its major airports are a short train ride away, and the city is home to international organisations, ambitious entrepreneurs and creative and digital communities. It attracts some of the brightest minds from all over the world, often united by a commitment to positive change. 

The University of Brighton has a rich scholarly history, particularly in applied research. We pride ourselves on academic work that has major public impact, on our innovative approaches to the generation and dissemination of knowledge, and our part in the progress of new and under-represented disciplines. 

Our research places us high in national university rankings across our major disciplines with special importance given to our research impact, the practical benefit of research to local and global beneficiaries. Read more about the results of the most recent national research excellence assessment (REF) and the most recent community and business engagement assessment (KEF).  

Read more about the city and the university on our FAQ pages.

Studying towards a PhD in the UK: will it be worth it for me? 

We recognise that there are many different needs when balancing education with other life commitments. 

At the University of Brighton, home students can choose part-time or full-time study to help balance work and life commitments. While international students cannot normally apply for part-time study, we have many ways to support a healthy and successful life and study balance.

Whichever way you choose to study, your research degree will be a deep and rewarding commitment to a project that brings new knowledge to the world and addresses the global challenges that face us all. 

At the University of Brighton, you will be working alongside dedicated academics in a vibrant, supportive community. By the end of your studies your research degree programme will have built transferable, high-level skillsets: strong analytical skills, academic rigour and persuasive presentation. Alongside this, there will be opportunities to develop the potential impact of your research, and careers advice for the next steps into work after you receive your doctorate.

Will studying for a PhD be right for me? This film was made by the University of Brighton for UKRI and features University of Brighton students and academics as well as those from other partner universities.

How will I build a relationship with my supervisor? This film was made by the University of Brighton for UKRI and features University of Brighton students and academics as well as those from other partner universities.

What kind of support will I get to do my PhD in the UK? 

We see doctoral research as the lifeblood of our university; we welcome our PhD students as the next generation of researchers and scholars.

Our supportive environment will place you with a world-class disciplinary and interdisciplinary supervisory team, and will embed your work within the research of specialist departments.

We also offer you the benefit of our wide connections to regional, national and international research networks, industry, public services and professional associations. 

Across all our research disciplines you will be working at the highest level, with dedicated staff and resources. 

How much does a PhD cost? Tuition fees, expenses and scholarship opportunities 

The cost of a PhD can vary significantly depending on the field of study and whether you will have to factor in a physical move to Brighton.

Tuition fees will vary according, for example, to whether your PhD is laboratory or non-laboratory based. You should also consider any additional costs of research in your field, for example travel for specialist libraries or field work. 

Fully-funded tuition and stipends for study in the UK are highly competitive and limited. Potential supervisors are however often prepared to work with promising students on funding applications. 

From the University of Brighton, studentships are advertised when available. For existing students can apply for ongoing support for example for conference attendance and development activities.

See more information on fees and funding for PhD study at the University of Brighton.  

Can I apply for a PhD as an international student?   

We have many students from overseas at the University of Brighton and welcome applications from all countries.

We can provide assistance with visa applications and other necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth transition.

Our research programmes are led by experienced and knowledgeable staff, who will guide and mentor you throughout your studies. 

If you are applying from outside the UK, you will need to apply for a visa and confirm that you are eligible to stay in the UK as part of your application.

Find out more about PhD study on our International research student page 

Contact us at the University of Brighton Doctoral College

You will find all the most important information here on our website, and we include answers to all the frequently asked questions (FAQs) we receive.

You should also explore the pages related to the academic discipline in which you hope to study on our PhD Programme pages.

Please do contact the Doctoral College for any further advice you may need. 

We look forward to meeting you when you arrive in Brighton.