Research Degrees
Bangor Business School runs a highly successful programme for students who wish to study towards an MSc in Research Methodology, MPhil or PhD. Our PhD programme is recognised by the UK’s Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) for excellence in social science training.
We have ESRC accredited pathways in Management and Business, and in Economics via the ESRC Wales Doctoral Training Partnership.
What is the difference between PhD and MPhil?
A PhD degree is usually 3 years full-time, or 5-6 years part-time. Candidates are expected to present the results of their research in a 100,000-word thesis which represents a significant original contribution to knowledge in the subject area studied, and to undergo a viva voce examination.
An MPhil (Master of Philosophy) degree is usually 2 years full-time, or 3 years part-time. Candidates must successfully complete an approved programme of supervised research, and present their results in a thesis of up to 60,000 words.
Before embarking on a PhD, you should consider undertaking our MSc in Research Methodology that is the ideal preparation for PhD study in the management and business area.
Supervision and training
All research students are allocated to a supervisor with research expertise in the chosen topic of study. Your supervisor will provide advice and guidance on:
- Your choice of topic
- The literature in your field and how to access it
- Your choice of research methods
- Thesis structure, content and presentation
- Preparation for your viva voce examination (PhD students)
During the first year of study, students undertake a Doctoral Training Programme which is designed to prepare them to undertake their research. These weekly seminars cover skills such as data handling, information searching, experimental design, applied statistics, academic writing, communication and presentation.
Take a look at our Phd Pathways.