Types of research degree

The University of Surrey offers a number of different research degrees.

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

  The PhD is the most prevalent form of doctorate in the UK and is based on a supervised research project lasting three to four years full-time and up to twice as long part-time. The research project will make an 'original contribution to knowledge'; what this term means in practice will depend upon the discipline in question.

  An important aspect of the PhD process is learning to become a professional researcher. The PhD programme will, therefore, include elements of research and transferable skills training to enhance the personal and professional development of PhD candidates.

  The research culminates in an oral examination (viva voce) of the candidate's thesis or another piece of work.  

  In the oral examination the candidate is required to defend their thesis (or other piece of work) in the presence of examiners who are experts in the field.

• Doctor of Engineering (EngD)

  The EngD is a full-time 4 year programme funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and industrial sponsors. Academically equivalent, though differing in focus to the PhD, the objective of the Research Engineer (RE) is to demonstrate 'innovation in the application of knowledge' or 'a significant contribution to practice'. The research must be of value in an industrial or business setting.

  REs are based with a sponsoring company where they conduct the majority of their research. They also attend the University for taught components, progress reviews and seminars. Supervisory support is provided by an academic supervisor and a supervisor based at the sponsoring company. Professional development is an integral part of the EngD; Research Engineers will be able to demonstrate advanced professional competencies by the end of the programme.

  The University of Surrey currently offers three EngD programmes:

  EngD Micro- and NanoMaterials and Technologies (MiNMaT)

  EngD Sustainability for Engineering and Energy Systems (SEES)

  EngD Nuclear

• Doctor of Psychology (PsychD)

  Applicants are required to hold, or to attain before entry, the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (BPS).
  
  The PsychD has two purposes: to enable trainees to enter professional practice; and to make an original contribution to both academic and professional knowledge.
  
  Through taught elements, placements and research trainees will acquire core competencies and a qualification which confers eligibility to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council (HPC) either as a clinical or a counselling psychologist, and eligibility towards chartered status with the BPS.

  The University of Surrey currently offers two PsychD programmes:

  PsychD Practitioner Doctorate in Clinical Psychology 

  PsychD Practitioner Doctorate in Psychotherapeutic and Counselling Psychology 

• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

  This programme is designed to build on relevant Masters-level studies by undertaking further empirical research as a means of improving management decision making. The dual objective of the DBA is not only to make a contribution to knowledge but also to inform and impact upon practice. The programme lasts two years for a full-time student or four years on a part-time or distance-learning basis.

  DBA  Doctor of Business Administration 

• Doctor of Medicine (MD)

  This programme is specifically designed for medical practitioners who have gained registration under the General Medical Council (GMC UK). The prime objective of the research is the advancement of medical knowledge. The programme lasts two years for collaborative students who will, in practice, pursue their research within the NHS on a full-time basis.

  MD Doctor of Medicine

• Doctor of Clinical Practice (DClinPrac)

  This programme is designed for experienced practitioners involved in clinical practice or practice development, who are interested in developing their leadership or advanced practice roles. Normal entrance requirements are three years post qualification experience in health or social care and evidence of research experience at Masters level (or equivalent). The programme takes 48-60 months part-time only. 

  The University of Surrey currently offers the following DClinPrac programme:

  DClinPrac  Doctorate in Clinical Practice