Choosing a research degree

This can be either an MSc or MA and emphasises independent study over taught instruction. It is often used as a training course in advanced research work and lays the foundation towards doing a PhD.

DMU does not usually offer scholarships for Masters programmes, unless they are a pathway to a PhD as part of a doctoral training programme such as Midlands 4 Cities or Midlands Graduate School. In most cases, candidates on Masters programmes are self-funded and so devise and write their own research project proposal and find a supervisor themselves before applying.

At DMU, this programme will help you to develop original solutions to real-world issues. This course is for senior professionals, researchers in commercial or public organisations, managers, entrepreneurs and consultants. Unlike a PhD programme, the DBA is a peer-based experience and focuses on research that emerges from a field of practice to draw in academic knowledge.

A Doctor of Philosophy is the highest university degree you can achieve and is awarded to students who complete an original thesis that contributes new knowledge in their subject. Upon completion of a PhD you will the expert in your chosen field and topic. Gaining this qualification will prepare you for a future role as an independent researcher as well as careers where research skills are required.

There are two main routes into a PhD programme: self-funded or via a scholarship.

The IPhD is a distance-learning research degree programme that allows research students to do a PhD entirely remotely. You will have access to a dedicated supervisory team with whom you will be in touch remotely.

Working towards this PhD involves students presenting journal articles published, or in a publishable form, written during the course of a supervised programme of research. This PhD route is not necessarily suitable for all research disciplines or all research students, so it is important to speak to a prospective supervisor or the DMU PGR Admissions team in advance of submitting an application.

This route is available to professionals or practitioners with substantial professional experience at a senior level and who have a demonstrable portfolio of achievements that have had considerable impact on their profession, on practice or on knowledge, which would, itself, be worthy of a doctoral degree.