Check you have the qualifications and skills we're looking for
Decided postgraduate research is for you? In that case it's time to check whether you meet our academic entry requirements and that you have the skills and attributes we look for in future postgraduate researchers in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health.
We’re looking for applicants who are passionate and enthusiastic about their area of research, who are eager to tackle global challenges in health and science, and who want to make a real-world impact.
Whatever your background, you'll need:
Curiosity and passion
Are you eager to delve deeper and uncover new insights? Do you possess strong opinions and beliefs on your area of research?
Problem solving skills
Do you thrive on tackling challenges using critical and analytical thinking skills?
Strong communication skills
Are you able to articulate ideas effectively, listen actively and empathise with others?
Tenacity
Are you determination to see tasks through, no matter how challenging or time-consuming?
Demonstrable research potential
Have you published work, conducted research, or completed an extended project like a dissertation? We value your research experience and research potential.
Academic entry requirements
What are our expectations?
For entry to our standard PhD programmes, we typically require:
- a bachelor's (Honours) degree with a minimum Upper Second class (or the overseas equivalent) in a relevant subject area.
Candidates may also be considered if they have:
- a bachelor's (Honours) degree with a minimum Lower Second class (or the overseas equivalent) in a relevant subject area;
- Evidence of academic progress through master’s study (taught master’s at a minimum grade of Merit).
Competition for entry to our funded programmes is high and applicants with a Lower Second class degree are generally not considered unless they have considerable research experience and/or a good master's degree. Check the specific funded programme pages for specific entry requirements.
If you're an international applicant, you'll also need to make sure you meet our English Language requirements.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
We actively encourage eligible applicants from diverse career paths, backgrounds and all sections of the community.
English Language
International applicants
In addition to academic requirements, applicants from outside the UK will also need to meet English Language requirements.
These can vary by degree programme, however, for most PhD/MPhil applicants we typically require:
- a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall or TOEFL (iBT) 90;
- each component of the English test tomeet the minimum requirement of IELTS 5.5 in all components, TOEFL (iBT 22);
- for the writing component, that you have achieved a minimum of 6.0 (IELTS).
Some programmes require IELTS 7.0 overall and in each component, so you should check the requirements for the programme you're interested in or contact the Doctoral Academy Admissions Team.
We primarily accept IELTS or TOEFL tests, which are only valid for two years. If your IELTS or TOEFL expires before the start of your programme, you will need to take another official English test before we can issue you with a CAS for your visa application. This is a requirement of UKVI.
For further information on English language requirements, please contact the Doctoral Academy Admissions Team.
