How to apply for a PhD

Before applying for our PhD programme, please read our What to expect during your PhD guide.

To be accepted on our PhD programme, you will need a Bachelor's degree of at least 2:1 level (or equivalent), or a master's degree, in a subject related to your proposed PhD research topic.

If you are from outside the UK, you will also need to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency with written and spoken English.

For more information on entry requirements, visit our Doctoral and Researcher College website.

There are three routes to selecting a PhD topic in our Department:

• Explore our PhD opportunities to see specific projects that are currently available. If you choose this route, your supervisor will be included in the project outline, so you can skip step 3 (Identify a supervisor) and progress to step 4 (Make an application).
• Draft your own research proposal in consultation with a supervisor. If you choose this route, you'll need to outline the project you wish to undertake to a relevant supervisor. Your proposed research project will need to align with the research carried out in our School, be feasible within the resources and time frame available to you and address a perceived "gap" in the literature. Most importantly, it should be of interest to you.
• Ask a supervisor to help you draft a research project. If you choose this route, you’ll need to identify a potential supervisor, who has relevant expertise to your area of interest.

Once you have identified a relevant supervisor, we recommend that you contact them to discuss your proposed PhD project and check whether it is suitable.

If you would like assistance with identifying potential supervisors then please email pclsphdadmissions@reading.ac.uk.

It is not essential to communicate directly with the School before submitting your application, but many candidates find it helpful.

Please apply using the PhD and professional doctorate online application system. You are strongly encouraged to read our guidance on how to write a research proposal before submitting your application.

You will need to complete the necessary information and attach copies of relevant documents, including the details of two referees.

Although you will be working with a specific department or supervisor, all PhD applications have to be made centrally. The University will acknowledge your application and then pass it on to our School.

Most new students join the PhD programme in September. However, it is possible to start your studies at any point during the academic year.