How to apply

Funded studentships and self-funded research projects have separate application processes. For funded projects, each opportunity describes the required application process and any specific entry requirements that may be different from the standard requirement detailed below.

Self-funded research degrees

Advice on how to start the process of applying

1. Identify potential supervisors for your research project - you can do this by searching our Research Database, type keywords related to your subject of interest into the search bar.

2. Make contact with a potential supervisor – they may indicate an interest in your research idea or proposal, but this does not guarantee entry to the programme.

3. Finalise a research proposal to outline the research you would like to undertake - Here's a handy guide to writing a good research proposal. Please note, this may be tested for plagiarism, collusion and other irregularities.

4. Supporting documentation – you will need to provide the following:

• College and/or University transcripts and degree certificates
• English language certificates (EU/International applicants only) see ‘Entry Requirements’

5. If the potential supervisor wishes to pursue your enquiry, you will be invited for interview – this may be offered remotely, by V-C, Skype or similar.

7. Following successful interview, you should complete an application – this is a joint exercise between you and the main academic supervisor (Director of Studies) who has agreed to support your studies. For a copy of the current application form, please contact gradresearch@uhi.ac.uk

7. Your application will be submitted by the proposed Director of Studies to the University’s Graduate School, for consideration by the Research Degrees Committee.

For further information on all aspects of applying to study for a postgraduate research degree - or if you would like to be put in touch with an academic within your area of study - please contact gradresearch@uhi.ac.uk

Entry requirements for our research degrees

To gain admission to a research degree programme, you must comply with the following minimum entry requirements:

• A master’s degree at postgraduate level of a University in the United Kingdom or equivalent*, or
• A first or upper second class honours degree of a University in the United Kingdom or equivalent*, or
• Other qualifications or experience that, in the opinion of the Research Degrees Committee and upon the recommendation of the Academic Partner Principal (or equivalent), affords sufficient evidence of their availability to benefit and study at the academic level required.

In addition, EU/International applicants must be able to demonstrate a high level of competence in written and spoken English with an IELTs score of 6.5 overall and not less than 6.0 in any element. See the University’s guide on English language requirements for our courses/programmes.

*Some studentships may have particular requirements depending on funding arrangements, please always check the 'How to apply' section of a specific funded studentship.