The course may be undertaken full-time (1 - 2 years), or part time (2 - 4 years).

A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject area with Hons 1 or 2i or a master’s degree in a relevant subject area that included a dissertation/independent research component that comprised a minimum of 25% of the requirements for the award of the degree or a master’s degree by research.

Candidates for the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) research and write a thesis of 40,000 - 60,000 words on an approved topic under the supervision of a member of the academic staff.

Upgrade from MPhil to PhD is not 'automatic' and may not be used to gain extra candidature time. It is recommended that:

1. MPhil candidates seeking upgrade should demonstrate an ability to conduct research at PhD level by: (i) providing a detailed thesis outline satisfactory to the department (ii) providing satisfactory chapter drafts of not less than a total of 35,000 words or equivalent (completed during the MPhil candidature)

2. Normally application to upgrade from MPhil to PhD should be made prior to the fourth semester (full-time equivalent) of MPhil candidature.