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PhD by Distance Learning

The University of Birmingham's College of Life and Environmental Sciences now offers PhD by Distance Learning.

This means that wherever you are in the world, you may now be able register with the University of Birmingham for your Doctoral qualification but undertake the majority of your studies in your home location.

Why study by distance learning?

The main advantage of studying by distance learning is the flexibility. Financial and practical implications of moving closer to the campus make distance learning a more feasible option and could allow you to combine study with other commitments, including work and family. Similarly, your research could be related to your area of residence and therefore moving would be detrimental to your capacity to carry out the research.

Is the distance learning route for you?

The distance learning route to PhD study is not for everyone. You have to have a very clear idea of your project and be able to motivate yourself. Undertaking PhD study off campus can sometimes be quite isolating, so the ability to proactively seek out connections from within relevant research communities is important. This route is well-suited to those who have a research project associated with their work or particular interests and where resources are available locally, over via the internet, to support your research e.g. appropriate archives and data collections.

How will I be supported?

You will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students. The only difference is that supervisory sessions will take place via audio and visual communication services such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person.

What is the cost?

We charge an annual tuition fee which is the same as our standard on-campus PhD but includes:

Economy class flights to and from Birmingham for the compulsory two-week campus visit in September
Accommodation at the University for the compulsory two-week campus visit in September
Economy class flights to and from Birmingham at the end of the study period for the three-day PhD viva examination
Accommodation at the University for the three-day viva examination

How often will I need to be on campus?

Although you may be able to undertake the majority of your study at an off campus location, you will be fully funded to make one compulsory visit to the University. This will enable you to meet your supervisory team, undertake intensive research skills training and make a start on your doctoral studies. You will then be invited to attend the University for annual ‘in-person’ meetings which give you the opportunity to interact with other doctoral students both socially and academically, undertake important progress meetings and carry out necessary training. You will also generally be required to be present on campus for your viva voce.

Am I eligible?

Before we can offer you a place it is important that you have agreement from your potential supervisor and that they are satisfied that you will be able to undertake the PhD on an off campus basis. This may mean that slightly different entry requirements apply, such as English language and more extensive research skills training. Agreements will also need to be reached regarding some of the more practical aspects of undertaking the PhD in this way (for example attendance requirements, suitability of the chosen residency etc). It is important that arrangements are discussed early so that all parties involved know what to expect and to ensure you are able to successfully complete your studies.

Can I study by distance learning anywhere?

Distance Learning courses can be undertaken from anywhere in the world, including the UK.

However, it is worth noting that supervisory sessions for Distance Learning students will take place via audiovisual communications, such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person.

While we have found that these 21st Century methods have proved popular, for those applicants who would prefer to visit the campus for face-to-face meetings with their supervisor, the traditional part-time study option may be more appropriate.

How to apply?

Find the programme that you wish to apply for in our course finder and click on the 'Apply' button.

As part of the application process, we will ask you to provide evidence to demonstrate that you have the time, commitment, facilities and experience to study for a PhD by Distance Learning. Please be prepared to provide evidence, and details, of the following:

Examples of your postgraduate research experience and ability to work independently e.g. papers/presentations at professional and academic conferences or publications in professional journals or previous completion of an independent research project, etc.
Full reasons (academic and personal) for registering for the distance learning mode of study rather than by standard full or part-time on-campus options. In particular, how you will be able to carry out your project in your chosen location.
Access to local library facilities (where needed)
Access to IT facilities
Access to communications, including e-mail, and audiovisual communication media e.g. Skype and Facetime
Access to facilities to support any study-related disability (where appropriate)

Please visit the course finder for a full list of subject areas available to study via distance mode.

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Online distance learning

The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) offers a number of distance learning courses which are delivered 100% online. Students work in small, interactive classes with academic staff, and also receive additional support and guidance.

Psychology and Neuroscience Mental Health MSc, PG Dip, PG Cert

Welcome to the cutting edge of mental health research. The 100% online Psychology & Neuroscience of Mental Health MSc/PGDip/PGCert allows you to benefit from the world-renowned teaching of King’s College London wherever you are. You will gain an unrivalled knowledge of mental health theory, practice and research methods from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), Europe’s largest centre for postgraduate education in its field. The programme is taught online, meaning you can advance your education without taking a break from work or other commitments. There are six entry points throughout the year, allowing you maximum flexibility.

Applied Neuroscience MSc / PG Dip

This innovative qualification from King’s is taught 100% online over two years, and is therefore designed to fit around your work and life commitments. This postgraduate course will allow you to apply your neuroscience knowledge to real world settings. From the research lab to marketing and games design, the application of neuroscience has the potential to deepen your understanding of how the brain and the nervous system serves to drive our every thought, sensation and emotion.

MSc International Programme in Addiction Studies

The International Programme in Addiction Studies (IPAS) is a unique collaboration of three of the world's leading research universities in the field of Addiction Science: The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King's College London, the University of Adelaide, and Virginia Commonwealth University.

This partnership offers three nested graduate programme options available (PG Cert, PG Dip, MSc) to students from around the globe via distance learning technologies. Students are exposed to cutting edge research on subjects ranging from the biological basis of addiction to addiction treatment, prevention and policy, covering key issues from an international viewpoint.

The programme is fully online and does not require any campus visits. Students benefit from access to the online resources of all partner universities. Upon completion of the curriculum, students receive a triple-badge diploma jointly conferred by the three institutions. 100% overall student satisfaction in the 2014/2015 UK Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES). Watch our video on the MSc International Programme in Addiction Studies by visiting the link to the course page below.

Psychology BSc from University of London

This flexible online programme offered by the University of London provides you with a contemporary approach to the study of the human mind. You will gain a thorough understanding of human behaviour and learn to apply psychological science to a variety of contemporary and social challenges.

The content enriched by the IoPPN will have an emphasis on quantitative and qualitative research methods and statistical analysis. Your learning experience will be enhanced with an accessible and attractive learning platform as well as opportunities for self-assessment.

Students can complete the BSc in Psychology in a minimum of three years (subject to module availability) or a maximum of six years. Your bachelor’s degree with honours will be awarded by the University of London with academic direction from King's College London. Find out more and apply

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Schools & departments

PhD Psychology programme

The University of Edinburgh has one of the top-ranked Psychology departments in the UK for research.

Psychology at Edinburgh brings together world-class researchers approaching the scientific study of mind and behaviour through a range of topics - from language development to dementia, personality to paranormal beliefs. The department benefits from a vibrant postgraduate community and strong interdisciplinary links with colleagues in medicine, informatics, linguistics, biology and public health.

Research interests

Find out about our areas of research and staff interest

When to apply

We operate a gathered field approach to PhD applications, find out how this works

Help with your application

Guidance for applicants applying to the PhD programme

Please get in touch with us should you have any questions about the programme

Funding opportunities for research students

For research students wishing to study at the School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences

Visiting research students

How to apply to the School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences (PPLS) as a visiting student

Our research community

Our PhD students are actively encouraged to join in the regular meetings to discuss research, books and papers.

Find out more about our research seminars and reading groups

This article was published on 2024-10-14

PhD by distance learning

The faculties of Environment and Arts, Humanities and Cultures offer PhD by distance learning across most schools.

PhD by distance learning allows you to study at a time and place that suits you and, with a part-time option available, you'll have the flexibility to gain an advanced degree alongside work and other commitments.

Through completing a PhD, you will become an expert in a specialist area and gain high-quality research training.

Our PhD by distance learning programmes

Faculty of environment.

School of Earth and Environment
School of Food Science and Nutrition
School of Geography
Institute for Transport Studies

Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures

School of Design
School of English
School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies
School of History
School of Languages, Cultures and Societies
School of Music
School of Performance and Cultural Industries
School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science
Inter-Disciplinary Ethics Applied Centre

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Course type

Qualification, university name, distance learning phd psychology.

7 degrees at 7 universities in the UK.

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Related subjects:

PhD Psychology
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PhD Clinical Psychology
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PhD Psychology Specialisations

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English PhD,MPhil - Gender and Sexuality

University of leicester.

English at Leicester All research areas within English are offered as Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - campus based full-time and Read more...

4 years Distance without attendance degree: £5,913 per year (UK)
3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Psychology PhD

London south bank university.

A member of staff, expert in the chosen field, is directly responsible for guiding and supporting your research programme. As a research Read more...

6 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,820 per year (UK)
3 years Full time degree: £4,820 per year (UK)
5 years Part time degree: £2,892 per year (UK)

Psychology, Sport and Health Sciences PhDs (Distance Learning)

University of portsmouth.

If you're looking to take your skills into postgraduate research, our research degree programmes can help you achieve your ambitions. Our Read more...

6 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)
3 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Sexuality and Gender Studies PhD (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)

University of birmingham.

Postgraduate research in Sexuality and Gender Studies is a truly interdisciplinary collaboration, led by leading international academics Read more...

University of Sunderland

A PhD is “probably the most internationally transferable qualification” according to the Higher Education Policy Institute. You will Read more...

6 years Distance without attendance degree: £3,681 per year (UK)
4 years Distance without attendance degree: £3,681 per year (UK)
4 years Full time degree: £4,600 per year (UK)
6 years Part time degree: £3,681 per year (UK)

PhD in Psychology in Education

University of york.

The PhD in Psychology in Education is designed to enhance specialised knowledge through academic study and research. The programme aims to Read more...

3 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,863 per year (UK)
6 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,432 per year (UK)
3 years Full time degree: £4,863 per year (UK)
6 years Part time degree: £2,432 per year (UK)

Clinical and Health Psychology PhD

The university of edinburgh.

The PhD in Clinical Psychology offer the chance to work with, and be supervised by, a range of clinical academics across many areas of Read more...

3 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,786 per year (UK)

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Full time PhD
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