Our Doctorate’s of Philosophy (PhDs) can be studied on a full or part-time basis. Offered in partnership with the University of the West of England (UWE), this is the highest level of academic study available and would normally be taken on successful completion of a master's degree, directly from your undergraduate degree or following a period in industry.
The main component is the doctoral thesis - a significant research project on a specialist topic that adds new knowledge or understanding to your field of study, and is worthy of publication. You’ll be paired with one of our specialised supervisors to drive forward your project.
Doctorates are generally completed over three to five years. As a PhD student, you’ll benefit from our unique research environment. Through our partnership with UWE, you’ll be a member of two passionate research communities, with access to a diverse range of resources, including cutting-edge commercial facilities and extensive research subjects, expertise and academic services.
Doctorate’s of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD study offers a challenging and exciting opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research that makes a difference to industry practice, finds solutions to real-world challenges and helps improve the lives of people and animals. Hartpury offers a rich, dynamic and supportive environment to pursue research.
Top 10 UK University
We're a top 10 UK university for overall postgraduate student satisfaction (PTES 2025, home students).
World leading
Our research has been recognised as 'world-leading' and 'internationally excellent' (Research Excellence Framework 2021).
PhD studentships
Offered across our research specialisms, our doctoral studentships are a great opportunity for UK-based and international students to have their PhD course fees waived and allow them to develop their expertise through a significant piece of research that addresses a specific industry challenge.
Financial support
PhD programmes are typically self-funded, with doctoral loans available( subject to eligibility) to help cover costs. Each year we also offer a small number of fully funded PhD studentships within our key research areas.
If you’re a UK applicant who normally lives in England, you may be eligible for a UK Government Postgraduate Doctoral Loan to support your studies at Hartpury. (Different funding options apply if you’re ordinarily resident in Wales.) This loan can help with tuition fees and living expenses during your doctoral course.
In addition, Hartpury provides a Research Bursary to support ongoing doctoral research. This bursary can be applied for after you’ve started your studies and may help with costs directly related to your research, such as lab consumables, specialist data analysis, or attending conferences to present your work. Please speak to your Director of Studies for details.
Get in touch
It's a good idea to think about fees and funding around your course as early as you can. We can help you to understand and take control of your finances. Here’s everything you need to know at a glance.
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