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Postgraduate Research

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Contact Research Degrees Office:
t: 0131 474 0000
e: researchdegrees@qmu.ac.uk

What Research Degrees does Queen Margaret offer?

Queen Margaret University awards two higher degrees by research, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil). The PhD normally takes 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time. The MPhil normally takes 2 years full-time; 4 years part-time.

The degree is assessed on the basis of the thesis produced at the end of a research project conducted by the student, and an oral examination ('viva'). Apart from research methods training in the first few months, there are no taught elements. Students receive guidance from a team of supervisors who have expertise in the research field.

QMU also offers taught doctorates ('professional doctorates') in certain health-related areas. This is a different type of doctorate which combines higher level study with work-based projects. For more information see List of Courses.

QMU does NOT have any specific programmes at post-doctoral level.

Why Queen Margaret University?

QMU is one of the most research active 'new' universities in Scotland. QMU’s research can be characterised as:

  • grounded in policy and practice
  • usable and accessible
  • multi-disciplinary in its approach
  • methodologically innovative with an emphasis on user involvement and practice as research
  • focused on touching people’s everyday lives

We are always keen to hear from potential research students who want to research in our fields of interest. QMU is a small university, specialising in a few key areas. Our main research priorities are:

  • Healthcare Professions
  • Public Services Management
  • Speech Science
  • Health Psychology
  • International Health & Development
  • Culture & the Creative Industries

For more details of the specific subjects covered, see Research Opportunities.

Further information for prospective students:


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last modified 12/07/11 Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh EH21 6UU - Tel: +44 (0)131 474 0000
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