Postgraduate research
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When it comes to research, we're hungry.
Growing research
You'll have an even wider choice of study areas at UEL, as we expand the number of our staff working on high-quality research.
Growing output of research
Our research power increased by 54% in REF 2021, to 538 compared to 350 in REF 2014.
Pioneering research
We're researching advanced robotic and neuroimaging techniques to develop pioneering treatments for stroke patients.
Why do research at UEL?
Your research at UEL will benefit from our location at the heart of Europe's largest regeneration area, rich in global companies and street-level creativity.
Our research programmes are wired into that energy, through our many contacts with our east London community neighbours. As part of our Civic Engagement drive, many of our taught research programmes involve working with community projects - helping real people and advancing knowledge at the same time.
There are no barriers. You'll be working closely with our academic staff - and in many cases have a chance to gain teaching experience by supervising undergraduates. Our postgraduate students highly rate their training and the degree of responsibility we offer: 89 per cent of postgraduate students felt they were encouraged to ask questions or make contributions in taught sessions, while 82 per cent felt their research skills had developed during their courses.
We'll give you the tools of the trade too: we've invested £170 million in new buildings and facilities over the past few years - including our new £14 million library on our Docklands campus.
How do I fund my research?
Start your postgraduate journey today by finding out about available funding sources.
If you graduated from UEL you may be eligible for a postgraduate course discount. If you progress directly with no gap year, you may receive up to 25 per cent discount, alternatively, you will receive a 10 per cent discount. See our Alumni Discount page for more details.
Study a PhD at UEL
Hear from Simone, who is studying for a PhD in Public Health, about her experience
What are my research options?
By studying for a research degree at UEL, you are making a big investment in your career, and making yourself stand out in an ever-more competitive jobs market.
A research degree is a big commitment, so you'll need to be highly organised, motivated and able to work independently for a minimum of three years' full-time study.
Whether you're motivated by a passion for study, a deep interest in a particular field where UEL has expertise, or simply to advance your career, you'll find UEL a supportive place to pursue your interests.
The main research-based courses are the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Masters of Philosophy (MPhil). There are also many professional doctorates - aimed mainly at professionals who have already begun their careers.
You should study the relevant School's pages and courses to see if there is an academic member of staff who might be able to supervise your study.
Our doctoral courses
Prof Doc Counselling Psychology
Study counselling psychology and get professional training to become a clinician in the NHS, the voluntary sector or in private practice.
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Prof Doc Data Science
This course is aimed at professionals who wish to enhance and/or validate data-centric, evidence-based approaches within their chosen career.
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Prof Doc Educational and Child Psychology
Gain full-time professional training leading to registration with the Health and Caring Professions Council (HCPC) as an Educational Psychologist.
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Prof Doc Fine Art
This is the UK's longest-running Professional Doctorate in Fine Art. It is designed for those who wish to make their practice the basis for doctoral study.
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Prof Doc Clinical Psychology
The Prof Doc in Clinical Psychology provides a training programme with academic teaching and clinical work placements based mainly in the NHS.
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Prof Doc Information Security
This programme aims to develop research-based practice amongst professionals currently working within the Information Security area.
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EdD Professional Doctorate in Education
Gain the opportunity and the skills to conduct robust and innovative research that will improve the policy, practice and quality of education.
Prof Doc Social Work
Conduct robust and innovative research; enhance your professional capability through critical analysis and the use of research evidence.
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MPhil PhD School of Business and Law
Royal Docks School of Business and Law offers two main research degrees: the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
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MPhil PhD Psychology
Studying for a PhD with UEL's School of Psychology will push you to the limit - and you'll be supported all the way by our world-class academic staff.
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Architecture, Computing and Engineering MPhil PhD
ACE has strong research expertise in urban sustainability, cyber-security and big data studies. We're world leaders in environmental protection studies.
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MPhil PhD School of Arts and Creative Industries
Studying for a PhD with UEL's School of Arts and Creative Industries (ACI) will push you to the limit - but you'll be supported all the way.
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PhD MPhil Social Sciences
Studying for a PhD with UEL's School of Education and Communities in the Department of Social Sciences will push you to the limit - and you'll be supported all the way by our world-class academic staff.
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MPhil PhD School of Health Sport and Bioscience
HSB has a well-developed postgraduate research culture, across bioscience, health and sport.
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MPhil PhD in Education
Research at the School of Education and Communities is innovative and responsive to the diverse educational needs of communities.
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PhD Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology
Studying for a PhD with UEL's School of Psychology means you will be part of a thriving research community and our world-class academic staff will support you.
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