How to apply to the BCU 2024 Vice Chancellor's Inaugural PhD Studentship Scheme

Find out how to apply to BCU's Inaugural Vice Chancellor's PhD Studentships Scheme.

How to apply:

1. Select the project you would like to apply for.
2. Visit our Projects and Areas of Research page. This will take you to the BCU online application page for the pertinent research degree discipline.
3. Complete the online Application Form.
4. Upload your Research Proposal.
   In place of a personal statement applicants are required to upload a research proposal explaining your ideas about the selected project topic and how it might be studied. Please ensure you state the project reference on your proposal form.
   International applicants must also provide a valid English language qualification, such as International English Language Test System (IELTS) or equivalent with an overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0. (For research degree courses in the Faculty of the Arts, Design and Media, the required English language qualification is International English Language Test System (IELTS) or equivalent with an overall score of 7.0 with no band below 6.5).
5. You will also be required to upload two references, at least one being an academic reference, and evidence of your qualification/s of entry (Bachelor/Masters certificate/s and transcript/s).
6. Submit your completed application and supporting uploaded documents, by the deadline given.

See further general guidance on applying for a doctoral course and what is required in a Research Proposal.

Closing date for applications:

• The closing date for applications is 23:59 on 30 April 2024.
• All those wishing to be considered must have submitted the relevant BCU online application (including an uploaded research proposal) by this date.
• You are strongly encouraged to apply in advance of the deadline wherever possible.

Selection process:

Your application for a VC Inaugural PhD studentship will be considered on the basis of:

• Your completed online PhD application form, with uploaded:
• Research Proposal

and (if shortlisted)

• The interview.

• Each Faculty will be responsible for considering applications received. 
• The process for considering applications will be overseen by a panel chaired by the Associate Dean for postgraduate research, or equivalent, in each Faculty.
• Successful candidates will have a strong academic background and/or exceptional research potential.

Notification of outcomes:

Successful shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the Doctoral Research College and invited to interview before the end of May 2024.