PhD study

We provide a challenging and exciting opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research that makes a difference to industry practice, finds solutions to real-world challenges and helps improve the lives of people and animals. Hartpury offers a rich, dynamic and supportive environment.

Our Doctorate’s of Philosophy (PhDs) can be studied on a full or part-time basis. Offered in partnership with the University of the West of England (UWE), this is the highest level of academic study available and would normally be taken on successful completion of a master's degree, directly from your undergraduate degree or following a period in industry.

PhDs at Hartpury

The main component is the doctoral thesis - a significant research project on a specialist topic that adds new knowledge or understanding to your field of study, and is worthy of publication. You’ll be paired with one of our specialised supervisors to drive forward your project.

Throughout your doctoral study, you’ll be supported by our specialist academics and established researchers who are also leading coaches, trainers, scientists, behaviourists, nutritionists, veterinary professionals and psychologists.

Doctorates are generally completed over three to five years. As a PhD student, you’ll benefit from our unique research environment. Through our partnership with UWE, you’ll be a member of two passionate research communities, with access to a diverse range of resources, including cutting-edge commercial facilities and extensive research subjects, expertise and academic services.

World Leading

Our research has been recognised as ‘world-leading’ and international excellent’ (Research Excellence Framework 2021).

Top 10

We’re in the top 10 UK universities for teaching quality (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2023)

97%

of graduates are in employment, further study or other purposeful activity (Graduate Outcomes, 2022)

Entry requirements

For a supervised PhD, we normally expect that applicants will hold at least a 2:1 or a master's qualification from a UK university or a degree of comparable standing from a university outside the UK. We also require a recognised English language qualification prior to making an unconditional offer.

For international applicants an IELTS score of 7.0 overall, or equivalent qualification, is required. If you require a Student Visa to undertake your research degree, you must apply for an academic place at least three months in advance of your proposed start date so you can obtain an offer in time to apply for your visa.

Student visa guidance

Research centres

As a PhD student, you'll join a likeminded community as part of one of our research centres – home to some of the world's leading academic and industry experts that are working to drive positive change where it matters.

You’ll benefit from access to some of the most advanced equipment and facilities in the world at an educational institution. We invest in the latest technologies to ensure students develop inline with industry advancement and best practice.

Our research centres

SUCCESS STORIES

Ellen Gibson

PhD student (stakeholder interplay in dairy welfare and production)

“The PhD scholarship has been the best career decision I've made; I'm working in an area I truly love, whilst undertaking new opportunities to be involved in exciting projects and to be immersed in the world of science.

From my undergraduate experience, I knew Hartpury would treat me as an individual and that I'd be supported to mould my research to compliment my own experiences and values.”

Ellen Gibson PhD agriculture student at Hartpury University looking at stakeholder interplay in dairy welfare and production and the dairy industry at a local level, specifically focused on the producers and consumers

Alice Cline

PhD student (childhood development) Sport Arena

“Through my research at Hartpury, I’m working closely with primary schools across the county to make the most of this critical development stage through the encouragement of specialist movement and physical activities with their pupils.

I have access to all the facilities I could need for my research, including anti-gravity treadmills and an altitude chamber. The staff show continuous support and are always on hand to all answer the questions I have.”

Alice Cline PhD Sport student specialising in childhood development at Hartpury University gym

Studentship Scheme

Our Postgraduate Studentship Scheme provides opportunities to get paid to undertake an important piece of research whilst achieving a PhD.

The programme enables students to enhance specialist subject knowledge, as well as gain experience and transferable skills. Successful applicants complete a full induction programme and receive ongoing continuing professional development support.

Find out more

Global expertise

We attract a strong network of academic professionals from across the globe. Many of whom are also leading coaches, trainers, scientists, behaviourists, nutritionists, veterinary professionals, psychologists and more.

Discover more about specific research staff on our PURE research management hub.

Find out more

Postgraduate student essentials

Whether you’re developing your existing expertise or embarking on a complete career change, progressing from undergraduate study or joining us after a break from education, our bespoke student services will support you to thrive within postgraduate study.

Why study postgraduate?

Master's degrees

Fees and funding

Our subject areas

Get in touch

Ask us a question about postgraduate study at Hartpury University or just add your contact details to receive updates on news, events and updates on opportunities to visit us.