You can study for a range of research degrees at Edinburgh Napier, all of which provide training in research, enhance your employment opportunities and allow you to develop advanced skills and expertise in a specific area of interest.
A minimum academic qualification is required for each degree option, but in exceptional circumstances, we will consider applicants without these qualifications if they have extensive relevant experience. To study for a research degree at Edinburgh Napier, you’ll also need to demonstrate excellent written and oral English.
For most options, you can study either part-time or full-time and this will determine how long you study for, although there is a minimum and maximum period of study during which you’ll need to submit your thesis.
Our standard entry times for research degrees are October and March, but you can make your application at any time and it will be considered for the next available intake.
- To start in October, you should apply by 31 May of that year
- To start in March, you should apply by 30 November of the preceding year.
MRes
Standard study period: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
If you’re looking to take your first steps in research, then a Masters of Research (MRes) could be ideal for you. It’s a short course bridging the gap between undergraduate and PhD level research. It’s particularly suitable if you are moving into a new subject area and want to explore different career or academic research options.
- Minimum qualification: 1st or 2nd class degree (UK) or equivalent
- English language requirement: IELTS score 6.5 or equivalent
- Thesis submission period (min-max): full-time 12-24 months; part-time 20-32 months
Find out more about
applying for an MRes here or
find out about our current opportunities here
MPhil
Standard study period: 2 years full-time, 3.5 years part-time
An MPhil is a shorter research degree, similar in nature to a PhD, but suitable if you want to complete in a shorter time period. You will gain a significant grounding in research methods and skills that will equip you to enter a successful career as a professional in your field of study. An MPhil is a Masters qualification.
- Minimum qualification: 1st or 2nd class degree (UK) or equivalent
- English language requirement: IELTS score 6.5 or equivalent
- Thesis submission period (min-max): full-time 24-36 months; part-time 40-52 months
Find out more about
applying for an MPhil here
PhD
Standard study period: 3 years full-time, 5 years part-time
A PhD is awarded on the successful completion of a long programme of supervised research that will contribute new knowledge to your field. Throughout your PhD journey, you will be supported with a programme of research training to help you develop transferable skills for your future career. Final assessment consists of your thesis (of up to 100,000 words) and an oral examination (viva voce). A PhD is a Doctorate qualification.
- Minimum qualification: 1st or 2nd class degree (UK) or equivalent as a minimum, but preferably a Masters degree
- English language requirement: IELTS score 6.5 or equivalent
- Thesis submission period (min-max): full-time 36-48 months; part-time 60-72 months
We also periodically recruit graduate training assistants to study for a PhD, who complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education and teach in their subject area during their studies. This route to a PhD takes four years full-time.
Find out about our current PhD opportunities here or check out how to apply here
DBA
Standard study period: 3 years part-time
A Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) is the highest level of professional qualification available in business and management and is equivalent to a PhD in terms of application, originality of work and contribution to business knowledge. It is aimed at business managers and leaders, consultants and other professionals including academics.
As a DBA student, you will learn about the latest management techniques and research methods while using applied research to solve a management or business problem. The DBA is assessed by combining continuous evaluation with a major research project focusing on the participant’s workplace.
Students will:
- complete our Postgraduate Certificate in Research Methods
- undertake research, critical investigation and evaluation of an approved topic in their professional area
- write a doctoral thesis (approx. 50,000-60,000 words) which makes a significant and original contribution to business and professional practice.
The skills and knowledge you gain will equip you to improve the effectiveness of your professional performance and that of your organisation.
- Minimum qualification: MBA or a relevant Masters plus 5 years senior management experience
- English language requirement: IELTS 7 or equivalent
- Thesis submission period (min-max): part-time 36-48 months
Find out more about
applying for a DBA here. To discuss the programme with a member of the team, or to register your interest, please contact Kyle Thomson (Programme Administrator) at
K.Thomson2@napier.ac.uk.
Professional Doctorate
Standard study period: 3 years part-time
The Professional Doctorate is aimed at individuals working in a range of professional capacities who wish to continue to develop their knowledge and understanding of a key issue in their field. The Professional Doctorate develops applied research through the critical review and systematic application of appropriate theories and research to professional and industry-based practice. It seeks to both increase knowledge about practice and inform and impact on practice, to improve professional competence and professional thinking.
The Professional Doctorate is divided into two stages:
- Stage 1 lasts two years and involves completing the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Skills Development whilst preparing your main doctoral study.
- Stage 2 lasts a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years, during which you will complete the main phase of empirical research in your organisation, under the guidance of your supervisory team, including a thesis of 50-60,000 words.
Professional doctorates are currently available within our School of Engineering & the Built Environment and our School of Health & Social Care.
- Minimum qualification: MBA or a relevant Masters plus 5 years senior management experience
- English language requirement: IELTS 7 or equivalent
- Thesis submission period (min-max): part-time 36-48 months
Find out more about
applying for a Professional Doctorate here
Not sure which option would be best for you? Email the postgraduate admissions team:
researchadmissions@napier.ac.uk