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Postgraduate Research Degrees

As a postgraduate research student at Newcastle University, you could help find solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems.

Pushing the boundaries of global knowledge

Whether you’re driven by curiosity or a desire to address real-world challenges, our postgraduate research opportunities will enable you to advance your passions and make an impact. 

As a postgraduate research student at Newcastle, you’ll engage in independent research under the guidance of experienced supervisors, and with the support of our Doctoral College. You’ll develop the sought-after expertise and high-level skills prized by employers. 

Person in a lab coat and safety goggles examining a vial with orange substance in a research lab with equipment and storage containers
Make discoveries that matter Top 65 in the world for research quality (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
Build expertise for your future 5 QS Stars (2025) for student employability
Thrive in a top, affordable city World top 50 and UK top 5 (QS Best Student Cities 2026)

Your research degree options

There's more than one way to start your postgraduate research journey at Newcastle. We offer PhDs, Professional Doctorates and Integrated PhDs. We also offer Research Master's degrees. 

For PhD study you can apply for a funded studentship, with a defined research topic and secured funding. Or you can propose your own research idea and apply with a research proposal. Both routes give you the opportunity to become an expert in your field and make a real impact with your research.

A Research Master's provides a more research-focused route to a Master's degree. You'll develop independent research skills and expertise in your chosen subject. If you're considering a PhD in the future, a Research Master's is excellent preparation, giving you valuable experience and insight into advanced academic research.

Research that matters 

Whether you’re passionate about advancing healthcare, responding to climate change, or exploring the intersections of culture and society, at Newcastle you’ll join a supportive research-focused environment.  

We're geared towards academic discovery and personal growth. Our research culture supports collaboration and the freedom to grow and explore. Join a community centred around fairness, inclusion, openness and integrity.

Person on a boat conducting acoustic signalling research, leaning over the railing with marine equipment, wearing a green jacket and black hat, with water and distant land in the background

Introducing the Doctoral College

Our Doctoral College provides dedicated support and guidance to our postgraduate research community. We cover a wide range of research orientated activities – including funding.  

The College provides you with opportunities to:

  • enhance your research experience
  • develop your academic profile by presenting at key conferences in your field
  • enhance your networking skills
  • develop your career prospects

You’ll become a member of our Doctoral College when you enrol.

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Our students

Nigeria

Lukman from Nigeria

Mechanical and Systems Engineering PhD

Newcastle University really welcomes international students. It’s clear that the institution strongly values inclusion and diversity.

Brazil

Bernardo from Brazil

Law PhD

I am deeply passionate about the RED (Researcher Education and Development) programme - it has been an integral part of my PhD journey.

Taiwan

Alice (Shyun-Yih) from Taiwan

Modern Languages PhD

I’m part of the Taiwanese Society as I think it's good to connect with other students from my home country and share information about studying.

United Kingdom

Lucy May from United Kingdom

Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD

Newcastle University gave me research opportunities, supportive supervisors, and the skills needed to work in both academia and industry.

India

Vaishnavi from India

Chemical Engineering PhD

Choosing the UK felt like a step that would not only strengthen my academic journey but also support my long-term career development.

Iran

Farhad from Iran

Electrical and Electronics Engineering PhD

Newcastle University has helped me shape a clear vision for my future by giving me the knowledge, confidence, and research experience

China

Fulong from China

Computer Science PhD

I chose Newcastle University because of its strong research profile in machine learning and the opportunity to work with leading academics.

United Kingdom

Hilary from United Kingdom

Population Health Sciences PhD

I chose to study at Newcastle because I wanted to pursue a PhD at an outstanding institution with a reputation for excellence in health research.

Lebanon

Nouhad from Lebanon

Communication and Language Sciences PhD

This degree is for ambitious and hardworking students who want high quality education in an inclusive and supportive environment.