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PhD Student Guides

As a prospective PhD student, you’re likely to have a lot of questions about the doctoral journey. Whether you’re keen to make your own research proposal or you’re applying for an advertised PhD project, the process is very different to what you may have experienced during your Bachelors or Masters degree.

Similarly, the funding situation can seem more complicated for doctoral candidates, with competition often tough for the most prestigious studentship schemes.

Over the years, we’ve written hundreds of guides on the topics that matter most to prospective PhD researchers. They cover everything from writing a research proposal and finding a supervisor to completing your thesis and acing your viva exam.

by Emma Burnett

Putting it off? Bring it on! - Starting a PhD in Your Thirties

Applications

Committing to a doctorate can be tough, especially when you already have a career - and a young family. Read Emma's story.

by Mark Bennett

Do University Rankings Matter for PhD Study? – Tips and Tricks

Rankings International Study Advice

University league tables may not focus specifically on postgraduate research, but that doesn't mean they aren't useful for your PhD search.

by Melanie Brown

How I (Eventually) Won a PhD Studentship - and How You can Boost Your Chances of Success

Funding Applications Advice

What's it like to actually apply for a PhD studentship? And what should you do if you aren't successful? One student shares her experiences.

by Mark Bennett

Postgraduate Accommodation Options - Living it Up on a Masters or PhD

Applications Advice

Can you live in student halls as a postgraduate? Should you? And what other options are available now you're studying a Masters or PhD?

by Jamie Depledge

PhD Inspiration - Professor Allen Pacey, The University of Sheffield

Advice

Considering a PhD, but wondering what you'll actually get out of it? We've sat down with some of the UK's top academics to hear their experiences and thoughts on postgraduate study. Professor Allen Pacy is the Professor of Andrology at The University of Sheffield. Here he shares some advice for new students.

by Tamar Beck

Tackling a PhD with a Long-Term Health Condition – One Student’s Story

A disability or health problem might make a PhD more challenging, but it can also be a source of inspiration and drive. Read one student's story.

by Mark Bennett

How Much is that Doctorate in the Window? - Investigating the Cost of a PhD in 2017

Funding

Wondering how much you'll actually need to budget for a PhD? We've done some research into the cost of postgraduate research.

by Rachel L King

Keeping the Plates Spinning During a PhD

Advice

What's it like to manage a PhD alongside other personal and professional commitments? In this post, Rachel King shares her experiences as a second year Health Sciences student.

by Jamie Depledge

PhD Inspiration - Dr Francisco Diego Quintana

Advice

Dr Francisco Diego Quintana is a Senior Teaching Fellow at University College London. Here he shares some advice for new students.

by Jamie Depledge

PhD Inspiration - Sir David Spiegelhalter

Advice

Sir David Spiegelhalter is the Professor for the Public Understanding of Risk at the University of Cambridge. Here he shares some advice for new students.