part time online phd uk

PhD by distance learning

The faculties of Environment and Arts, Humanities and Cultures offer PhD by distance learning across most schools.

PhD by distance learning allows you to study at a time and place that suits you and, with a part-time option available, you'll have the flexibility to gain an advanced degree alongside work and other commitments.

Through completing a PhD, you will become an expert in a specialist area and gain high-quality research training.

Our PhD by distance learning programmes

Faculty of environment.

• School of Earth and Environment
• School of Food Science and Nutrition
• School of Geography
• Institute for Transport Studies

Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures

• School of Design
• School of English
• School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies
• School of History 
• School of Languages, Cultures and Societies
• School of Music
• School of Performance and Cultural Industries
• School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science
• Inter-Disciplinary Ethics Applied Centre

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Course type

Qualification, university name.

• Distance learning PhD

278 degrees at 23 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

Related subjects:

• PhD Agriculture, Animal Care, and Veterinary Science
• PhD Archaeology
• PhD Architecture
• PhD Biology and Life Sciences
• PhD Building, Planning and Construction Management
• PhD Communications and Media
• PhD Computer Science and Information Technology
• PhD Creative Arts and Design and Illustration
• PhD Economics
• PhD Education
• PhD Electronic and Electrical Engineering
• PhD Engineering
• PhD English Literature
• PhD Environmental Health and Safety, Protection and Conservation
• PhD Financial Management and Accounting
• PhD Food Science and Technology, Nutrition and Dietetics
• PhD Gallery, Conservation and Museum Studies and Museology
• PhD Geography and Earth Sciences
• PhD Health Care Management and Health Studies
• PhD History
• PhD Humanities and Social Sciences
• PhD Industry, Logistics, Manufacturing and Production
• PhD Journalism and Publishing
• PhD Languages
• PhD Law and Legal studies
• PhD Leisure, Hospitality Management and Event Management
• PhD Linguistic Studies
• PhD Literature
• PhD Management, Business and HR
• PhD Marketing and PR
• PhD Mathematics
• PhD Music Technology and Production and Sound Engineering
• PhD Nursing and Midwifery
• PhD Other Sciences and Research
• PhD Performing and Dramatic Arts, Acting and Music Studies
• PhD Philosophy
• PhD Physics
• PhD Physiotherapy and other Therapies
• PhD Psychology
• PhD Religious Studies and Theology
• PhD Social Work, Community Work and Counselling Skills
• PhD Sports and Recreation
• PhD Surgery, Medicine and Dentistry
• PhD Teaching and Training
• PhD Transport Services and Aviation

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

Museum Studies PhD - Museums: Experience and Affect

University of leicester.

Museum Studies at Leicester offers supervision for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - full-time This degree is available to study Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £6,300 per year (UK)
• 3 years Full time degree: £6,300 per year (UK)

Economics, Accounting or Finance PhD

Oxford brookes university.

Economics is a broad discipline that helps us understand historical trends by studying the past, interpret today’s major challenges and Read more...

• 4 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)
• 3 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 3 years Distance without attendance degree
• 4 years Distance without attendance degree
• 3 years Full time degree

Applied Linguistics with English Language Teaching PhD

University of nottingham.

Applied linguistics offers a fascinating opportunity to study the interaction between language and the real world. You will be supervised Read more...

• 48 months Distance without attendance degree: £5,100 per year (UK)
• 48 months Full time degree: £5,100 per year (UK)
• 48 months Full time degree: £21,500 per year (UK)
• 96 months Distance without attendance degree

Architecture PhD

London south bank university.

Research in the area of architecture is carried out by specialist centres. The majority of academic staff belong to one or more of these Read more...

• 5 years Part time degree: £2,892 per year (UK)
• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,820 per year (UK)
• 3 years Full time degree: £4,820 per year (UK)

PhD Computing and Mathematics

University of wolverhampton.

PhD students at the School of Mathematics and Computer Science are supervised by academics who are leading experts in their particular Read more...

• 8 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Operational Research & Logistics PhDs and MPhils (Distance Learning)

University of portsmouth.

If you're ready to take your existing qualifications and expertise in Operational Research and Logistics into a postgraduate research Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)
• 3 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

PhD in Film Media and Screen Studies

Manchester metropolitan university.

Discover your research degree study options, including areas of expertise for our academic supervisors. Our research degrees will help you Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 6 years Distance without attendance degree

PhD English Language and Applied Linguistics (Distance Learning)

University of birmingham.

Carry out your research with one of the UK’s leading English Language departments, renowned for its expertise in Corpus Research, Cognitive Read more...

• 4 years Distance without attendance degree: £12,330 per year (UK)

Applied Linguistics, PhD / PhD Distance Learning

Swansea university.

A PhD or MPhil in Applied Linguistics enables you to undertake a substantial project led by your own passions and interests. The PhD Read more...

• 7 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,356 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Museum Studies PhD - Cultural Heritage and Cultural Practice

Business and management phd.

Business and Management is a broad disciplinary cluster which includes sub-disciplines such as Organisational Behaviour, Leadership, Read more...

• 4 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,356 per year (UK)
• 3 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,712 per year (UK)

Religious Studies (distance learning) PhD

Our PhD gives you the time and support to explore your religious studies interests while maintaining your existing commitments. We have Read more...

• 3 years Distance without attendance degree: £5,100 per year (UK)

Education PhD

As a research student you'll become part of our thriving academic community. Explore the staff, facilities and more at the Centre for Read more...

PhD Postgraduate research in Media and Communications

Thank you for your interest in pursuing a research degree with the Faculty of Arts. We will be delighted to discuss your area of interest Read more...

• 4 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,786 per year (UK)

Dental, Health and Care Professions PhD (Distance Learning)

If you're looking to take your skills into postgraduate research, our research degree programmes can help you achieve your ambitions. Our Read more...

PhD in Art, Design and Architecture

Film studies phd (on-campus or by distance learning).

Research degrees in Film Studies at Birmingham are supervised by faculty in the Department of Film and Creative Writing and in the Read more...

Civil Engineering - Distance Learning, PhD

The PhD Civil Engineering - Distance Learning is subject to the same University regulations as the standard PhD programme, except that all Read more...

• 1 year Distance without attendance degree: £4,800 per year (UK)

Museum Studies PhD - Art and Its Institutions: Histories and Practices

Theology (distance learning) phd.

Our distance learning PhD gives you the time and support to explore your theological interests while maintaining your existing Read more...

1-20 of 278 courses

Course type:

Qualification:, universities:.

• Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, School of Advanced Study, University of London
• University of Huddersfield
• Maryvale Institute
• University of Edinburgh
• University of London Institute in Paris
• University of Sunderland
• Birmingham City University
• University of York
• Institute of English Studies, School of Advanced Study, University of London
• Birmingham School of Acting
• University of London Worldwide
• Institute of Commonwealth Studies, School of Advanced Study, University of London
• University of Bristol
• Institute of Historical Research, School of Advanced Study, University of London

Related Subjects:

100 programs in United Kingdom

• United Kingdom

Distance learning

• Administration Studies (2)
• Architecture Studies (2)
• Art Studies (3)
• Business Studies (3)
• Construction (1)
• Design Studies (2)
• Economic Studies (4)
• Education (4)
• Energy Studies (2)
• London (98)
• Edinburgh (0)
• Belfast (0)
• Kingston upon Thames (0)
• Brighton and Hove (0)
• South Africa (0)
• Czech Republic (0)
• Doctor of Education (0)
• 1 Year (18)
• 2 years (71)
• 3 years (10)
• 4+ years (1)
• Full time (99)
• Part time (30)
• English (100)
• Italian (20)
• Spanish (0)
• Portuguese (0)
• Galician (0)
• On-Campus (9)
• Distance learning (100)
• Blended (0)

Selinus University of Sciences and Literature

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Accounting

• London, United Kingdom
• Bologna, Italy

This program research should develop the topic of accounting from a historical perspective. The thesis shall explain the reasoning process that accountants use to interpret the effects of financial transactions on the income and financial position of a corporation or business.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Antropology

English, Italian

This thesis should explore the four subfields of anthropology, namely archaeology, ethnology, physical anthropology and linguistics, which combine to give a complete understanding of humanity.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Architecture and Architectural design

In this research programme, the final thesis should offer an essential knowledge of the field of architectural design, taking into account the latest developments in design and new trends, including the use of new materials and new housing needs starting from the optimization of living spaces.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Art History

Full time, Part time

The history of art studies the origin of art from the first rock paintings to the experimental art of today. A PhD thesis in this partkicvolare versantem should cover the themes of Western tradition and the cultures of the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands and the Americas.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Comparative Literature

A research thesis for these PhD programmes should be designed to improve the knowledge and understanding of literature from its different cultural approaches. Every student in the research in this area should distinguish between the various literary genres (poetry, theatre, fiction and nonfiction), as well as the main aesthetic, political, religious and social issues that have influenced and contributed to shaping the literature of all times and cultures.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Construction Management

This programme describes the work carried out by all professional groups (Architects, Engineers, Construction Managers, Suppliers and Material Sellers, etc.). In addition, it examines the resources (money, machinery, materials and human resources) needed to carry out a construction project. Issues related to budget estimation, cost control and progress analysis of construction operations are discussed.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Educational Administration

This programme is primarily for teachers and school administrators and is designed to help candidates develop and implement three original solutions for decision-making, leadership, human resource management, teacher assessment, organization and public relations.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in English Literature

The development of this research programme should improve knowledge and understanding of English literature from its origins. Students are exposed to a variety of literary genres (poetry, theatre, fiction and non-fiction), as well as the main aesthetic, political, religious and social issues that have influenced and helped shape the literature of every era.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Executive Leadership

Students who undertake this PhD programme will need to explore the main theories and practices in business and leadership. Provide a broad perspective on companies and their transformations through case studies, insights and reports from managers and executives of leading companies.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Financial Management

Taking the thesis for this programme allows you to explore all the research tools, strategies and tactics that are crucial to analyze and improve the financial dimension of any operational decision in a company.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Food Science

Research in this area of food science should provide data on how to provide the world's population with safe, nutritious, appetizing and affordable food. Achieving this goal requires an in-depth study of the issues of processing, packaging, distribution and evaluation of food.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Genetics

In this doctoral programme, the thesis research should provide the most current information, knowledge and applications in the field of genetics. Nowadays, the key to a problem affecting neurons, cells and/or cancer can lie in cellular and genetic research.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Geology

The research programme of this doctoral programme should study the physical environment while examining geology. The deepening should concern the exploration of the origin, structure and composition of minerals and igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Human Resources

Nowadays, companies, multinationals, NGOs, even small companies, seek the best in terms of capacity and productivity from their staff. The objective of this programme is to provide candidates, future HR managers with the assessment tools to hire and support the right person in the right position.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Humanities

The human sciences underline the importance and value of the analysis of the human being from an integrated historical, philosophical and artistic perspective. Through an in-depth examination of world history, politics, religion, philosophy and art.

Popular degree type

Popular study format

Distance learning PhD Programmes in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom and Britain, is a sovereign state located off the north-western coast of continental Europe.The two most famous (and oldest) universities are Oxford and Cambridge (often referred to as Oxbridge by many Britons) England also has several other world-class institutions, including several in London (notably Imperial College, the London School of Economics, University College London and King's College London, all are part of London University)

The PhD is a doctoral degree, specifically called a "doctor of philosophy" degree. This is misleading because PhD holders are not necessarily philosophers (unless they earned their degree in philosophy!). That said, PhD recipients are able to engage in thought experiments, reason about problems, and solve problems in sophisticated ways.

Online or distance learning refers to the use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. With online learning, one can access education at any time and from any location with an available internet connection.

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In this section

• Your learning experience

PhD by distance learning

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Politics and International Relations at Leicester

The PhD by distance learning is designed to offer an additional mode of study to those who seek a PhD but would find it difficult to fulfil the requirements of full or part-time study on-campus.

Successful applicants for this programme will require a good quality research proposal as a key condition of entry, as well as meeting the usual University and departmental requirements. They will be assigned supervision from the relevant department.

All distance learning PhD candidates, regardless of department, will initially undertake a structured programme of research training over the course of 12 months. The research training will consist of four mandatory modules, delivered through a combination of module books and interactive tasks, readings and discussion on the University’s Blackboard virtual learning environment.

Following the completion of the research training, you will begin to focus solely on your proposed theses, with supervisory support provided by telephone or electronically.

If you are interested in applying for a PhD in Politics and International Relations , please contact Dr Tara McCormack  with a research proposal. Browse our  PhD guidelines  for producing a proposal.

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Law PhD by Distance Learning

What is a phd by distance learning.

A PhD by Distance Learning allows you to undertake the majority of your research at an off-campus location. You are therefore able to do the research required for your PhD in a location of your choosing; only making one annual visit to the University.

Why study by distance learning?

The main advantage of studying by distance learning is the opportunity to undertake research supervised by one of our world-renowned academics without having to relocate geographically to the Birmingham region. The flexibility offered by distance learning will allow you to combine study with other commitments, including work and family.

Is the distance learning route for you?

The distance learning route to PhD study is not for everyone. You need to have a very clear idea of your research project and be able to motivate yourself. Undertaking PhD study off campus can sometimes be quite isolating, so the ability to proactively seek out connections from within relevant research communities is important. This route is well-suited to those who have a project associated with their work or particular interests and where resources are available locally to support your research e.g. appropriate archives and data collections.

Can I study by Distance Learning in the UK?

Distance Learning courses can be undertaken from anywhere in the world, including the UK. 

However, it is worth noting that supervisory sessions for Distance Learning students will take place via audiovisual communications, such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person. 

While this 21st Century approach has proved effective, for those applicants who would prefer to visit the campus for face-to-face meetings with their supervisor, the traditional part-time study option would be more appropriate. 

• One return economy flight per year for the required two-week campus visit in September
• Accommodation at the University for the required two-week campus visit in September
• One return economy flight at the end of the study period for the three-day PhD viva examination
• Accommodation at the University for the three-day viva examination

How will I be supported?

You will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students. The only difference is that supervisory sessions will take place via audio and visual communication services such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person.  

When would I start?

We encourage you to start your PhD in the month of September so that you can attend an induction along with other PhD candidates beginning their research at the same time as you. However, other arrangements may be possible with agreement from your supervisor.

How often will I need to be on campus?

Although you may be able to undertake the majority of your study at an off-campus location, you will be fully funded to make one compulsory visit to the University per year of study. This will enable you to meet your supervisory team, undertake intensive research skills training and make a start on your doctoral studies. You will then be invited to attend the University for annual meetings which will give you the opportunity to interact with other doctoral students both socially and academically, undertake important progress meetings and carry out necessary training. You will also generally be required to be present on campus for your viva voce.

Am I eligible?

Before we can offer you a place it is important that you have agreement from your potential supervisor and that they are satisfied that you will be able to undertake the PhD on an off-campus basis. This may mean that slightly different entry requirements apply, such as English language and more extensive research skills training. Agreements will also need to be reached regarding some of the more practical aspects of undertaking the PhD in this way (for example attendance requirements, suitability of the chosen residency etc). It is important that arrangements are discussed early so that all parties involved know what to expect and to ensure you are able to successfully complete your studies.  

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Part-time doctoral research

Our part-time doctoral students make up an important part of our research community. At Reading, we recognise the distinct nature of studying part time, and we have a wealth of experience and resources to help you succeed.

If you are thinking of studying for a doctorate part time, you will be in good company. A quarter of our doctoral students either complete their entire programme on a part-time basis or switch after starting full time. You may find that studying part time suits you because:

• you have work commitments
• you have caring responsibilities
• it's preferable for financial reasons.

“As a part-time, mature student, there are times when I work full time on my thesis, while at other times it gets far less input due to my other commitments. Neither myself, my supervisor nor my postgraduate director have ever considered this a problem and this relaxed, flexible attitude has helped immensely and kept me unstressed and on track.”

Hilary Matthews

PhD in History

On campus and By Distance registration

Part-time doctoral study can be pursued either as an on-campus student, or by registering for study By Distance.  For more information on By Distance study, including eligibility, see the  PhD By Distance webpage .

Time frames for part-time study

Working hours and patterns.

Your working hours and patterns are not usually specified; however, as a guide, you should expect to spend at least 15 hours a week working on your research or undertaking training and development events. At certain points in your doctoral journey, you may have to dedicate more time for intensive study.

If you are not registered as a By Distance student some level of attendance on campus is required, however this is flexible.  You will find your own preferred way of working with us – a few of our part-time cohort attend daily, some others attend weekly, but many who live further afield attend less frequently. Expected work patterns can be discussed with your department and supervisor.

Submission timescales

As a part-time doctoral student, you should aim to submit your thesis within five years of starting your programme. The maximum time allowed is six years, while the earliest submission date is four years (unless you have special permission).

The part-time journey

There are several milestones on your journey towards completing a doctorate. For an overview of the key activities and timescales involved, see our guide to what a doctoral programme entails.

Find out what's involved in a doctoral research programme 

Core training

To equip you with the skills you need to carry out your research professionally and effectively, we have created the Reading Researcher Development Programme (RRDP), alongside other training available via the Doctoral and Researcher College.

As a part-time doctoral student, you should attend at least nine RRDP courses over the length of your doctoral programme. Courses range in length from 90 minutes to several days.

Learn about the Reading Researcher Development Programme (RRDP)

Our part-time doctoral students

To get a fuller flavour of what part-time doctoral research is like at Reading, read about what Dr Natalya Sergeeva and Mark Player have to say about their experiences, and how studying part time works for them.

Dr Natalya Sergeeva: Exploring narratives of innovation in the UK construction sector

Mark Player: Japanese punk film production 

Funding for part-time study

Our regional PhD bursary scheme may be of particular interest to you if you are a local resident (i.e. living within a 25-mile radius of the University) and wish to undertake a doctoral programme while living at home. This competitive scheme has run for a number of years now and has proved particularly popular with those wanting to study part time, many of whom work in the region.

Discover more about our regional PhD bursary scheme

Fees for part-time study

You will need to pay the relevant part-time fee for each year of study. If you are self-funded, your fees (including research expenses and supervisory visit fees) are normally payable in two equal instalments – one at the start of the academic year and one at the start of the second semester.

Find out about fees for part-time study

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