Frequently asked questions
What are the main things I need to put in my research proposal?
You should provide several things in your research proposal. These include:
- a good, engaging and descriptive title
- a clear aim for your project
- objectives/research questions
- an explanation of why yours is an interesting and worthwhile topic to research
- a literature review
- a detailed justification of the methodological approach, including research design and data collection and analysis methods
- a plan of your research project
Are there any core taught modules on a PhD programme?
In the UK a PhD is primarily based on completing a research-based project. However, there are taught modules which you can attend to help you gain the skills and knowledge you will need for your research.
Specifically, you will be required to attend a School-specific module (IJC601 Doctoral Training) which provides you with departmental information and “know how” on the doctoral journey and a Faculty of Social Sciences module (FCS601 Research Ethics and Integrity) on ethical research. You can choose to attend additional training modules as part of the White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership (WRDTP) or as part of the University’s Think Ahead programme.
Should I speak to a potential supervisor before submitting my application?
Yes, it is recommended that you speak to a member of staff about your research ideas and proposal. You can find the full list of our academic staff members and their research interests here. Alternatively, you can select a potential supervisor using the University’s ‘Find A Supervisor’ tool.
Introduce yourself by email, providing information about yourself and your research topic. Be specific – if possible, send them your research proposal and your CV.
Do not send emails indiscriminately to many members of staff. If the first person you approach is not available to supervise your project, they will forward your email to other members of staff.
Can I apply if I don't meet your English language requirements?
If you are no more than 0.5 IELTS points from meeting our minimum requirement (6.5 overall, 6 in each component), we may be able to make you a conditional offer of a place.
You will need to meet the entrance requirement and provide proof in the form of an IELTS certificate, before you can start your PhD.
Can I apply if I haven't finished my masters degree yet?
Yes, you can. You should upload a copy of your most recent degree transcript to your application. This should show the results for any modules that you have already completed.
Any offer we make will be conditional on you achieving a merit, with a minimum of 60 in the dissertation.
If you don’t have to write a dissertation as part of your master’s degree, we will ask that you provide a writing sample such as a research paper.
How long will it take to process my application?
We process applications as quickly as possible. If your application meets our entry requirements, it is assessed by the director of postgraduate research and any supervisors you have specified. You may then be invited to interview. If successful, you will be made an offer. This process varies in length as each case is different, but it is usually under three months from application to offer.
Is there a deadline for applying?
If you intend to apply for funding, please ensure that we receive your application at least three months before the funding deadline. Make sure that your application clearly states when your funding deadline is.
If you are applying for a scholarship, make sure your application is submitted by the listed deadline.
Otherwise, please ensure that we receive your application at least three months before your start date:
- If you want to start on 1 February you should apply by 1 November
- If you want to start on 1 October you should apply by 1 July
When can I start my PhD?
The academic year for PhD study commences on 1 October, and we strongly advise that you start on this date.
If you are unable to start on 1 October, you can start on our alternative admissions date of 1 February.
Please note that 1 October and 1 February are the only start dates permitted.
I am studying at another university but I would like to spend some time studying with you - is that possible?
Yes, students studying a PhD elsewhere can study here as a visiting research student. You will need to apply online, and you will need to meet the same entrance requirements as other PhD students. You will also need to have or obtain a valid visa.
Find out more on our visiting students page.
I have a question about my visa.
The University of Sheffield has a dedicated visas and immigration team. Their website contains detailed information and guidance on applying for a Tier 4 visa, short-term student visas, CAS numbers, and more.
If you are unable to find the answers you need on the webpages, you can contact the visas and immigration team directly by emailing visa@sheffield.ac.uk or calling +44 114 222 9679.
Are there any additional costs incurred during PhD study other than tuition fees?
There may be costs additional to your tuition incurred during your PhD study, depending on your project and field of work. Examples of additional costs may include travel and accommodation for fieldwork, or conference fees. Please speak to your potential supervisor if you have any questions about this.
How long does it take to do a PhD?
Students are strongly encouraged to complete their PhD within 3.5 years (7 years for part-time students), which is our tuition fee paying period. Each PhD project needs to be designed to be successfully completed within this amount of time.
The maximum registration period for full-time students is 4 years (8 years for part-time students). This is the time limit for submission of the thesis for our research degree programme. Students who do not submit their thesis before their time limit will be withdrawn, unless they are granted an extension to their time limit (extensions are only granted in very exceptional circumstances).
If you're still working on your project between the end of the tuition fee-paying period and the overall time limit, restrictions may apply, and fees for time limit extensions are incurred on a pro rata basis.