If you have a passion for research and would like to take your academic journey to the next level, we have more information about what studying for a PhD at Southampton would be like – all to help you make the best possible next step in your journey.
Benefits of a PhD
A PhD is the highest academic qualification that you can achieve, and it involves you making a unique contribution of research to your area of interest. It usually involves 3-4 years of full-time study, or 5-7 years of part-time study.
You can move directly from an undergraduate degree to a PhD. However, if you are interested in doing a Master’s first, you can apply for an integrated PhD, known as an iPhD. An iPhD includes a year of taught modules to prepare you for the research you will undertake as part of your PhD.
Doing a PhD allows you to become an expert in your field – you will spend a significant period of time undertaking research, and discovering or understanding something no one has ever done before.
A PhD is the first step if you want to pursue an academic career, but it also offers many transferable skills that will be valued in industry. Whatever path you pursue, the latest Graduate Outcomes survey shows that PhD employment rates are higher compared to taught Master’s graduates.
Events to help you find out more
The Doctoral College, with Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise, are running a series of ‘Demystifying the PhD’ lunchtime seminars to take away some of the mystery surrounding PhD study and help you find out what it’s like to become a postgraduate researcher. This is a four-part series – you are welcome to attend all four sessions, or just pick the events that are most relevant to you.
1. Demystifying the PhD – What are doctorates and are they for me?
Monday 12 February 2024, 12:00-13:00, Building 100 / 5015
This session will explain exactly what a PhD is, and what the differences are between a PhD and other doctoral degrees. We will discuss the cost and length of a PhD, and how to decide whether a PhD is right for you.
2. Demystifying the PhD- Process for applying to PhD programmes
Monday 19 February 2024, 12:00-13:00, Building 58 / 1065
The session will provide an overview of the process for applying to PhD study. Find out how and when you should apply, and what you should consider including within your application.
3. Demystifying the PhD- A day in the life of a PhD student
Monday 26 February 2024, 12:00-13:00, Building 32 / 3077
Learn about PhD study first-hand from two of our current PhD students. Hear what they’re doing in their projects and ask your questions live to our presenters.
4. Demystifying the PhD: Career prospects beyond the PhD
Monday 4 March 2024, 12:00-13:00, Building 32 / 3077
Want to learn what a doctoral degree could lead on to? This session will provide you with information and examples of different jobs you may like to do after your PhD.
Next steps
Visit our SharePoint site to find out more about PhD study at Southampton, including how to apply and funding options. If you have any questions about PhD study, get in touch with the Doctoral College.