Research

Studying a research degree gives you the opportunity to critically engage with a subject at a highly advanced level. As well as making a significant and original contribution to your chosen field of study, you will develop a broad range of transferable skills that can assist you in your future career.

Research is an integral part of University life. Research staff across all faculties of the University are engaged in world-class research, as defined by the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (an external peer review process carried out across all UK Universities on behalf of the government). Leeds Met was awarded at the highest levels of 4* and 3* for our biggest unit, Sports-Related Studies, putting us in the top half dozen institutions. Our second largest unit, Communication, Cultural & Media Studies, also had the majority of its research activity rated as world-leading and internationally excellent. Elements of our research in Library & Information Management and Art & Design also received the highest possible ratings. All units, including Allied Health Professions & Studies, Business & Management Studies and Education, had research rated as international (2*) or internationally excellent (3*).

Research Programmes

(PhD, MPhil, MA, MSc)

We offer a flexible range of postgraduate research programmes, including full and part-time study both in the UK and abroad, from Masters by Research through to PhD and DPhil. Research programmes are normally assessed entirely on the basis of research presented in a thesis or dissertation. With the exception of Masters by Research, students present their research in an oral examination called a 'viva'.

As a research student you are allocated a supervisory team, normally two staff. You must be highly motivated, enthusiastic and determined to complete your research as you will, for much of the time, be working independently, and will not follow prescribed modules of study.

In addition to your programme of research, you will normally be expected to participate in a Research Training Programme. This supports your individual needs as a postgraduate researcher and encourages you to develop transferable research skills and expertise, beyond the boundaries of your chosen research award. The University offers a comprehensive range of workshops and other training opportunities to support your research.

To find out more about research opportunities in your area of interest, please click here.