Postgraduate study at CHyM

Degree Structure

Types of research degrees

• A PhD is a higher degree awarded for a thesis presenting original research that is a significant contribution to scientific knowledge. In UK universities, the thesis is judged by two examiners who interview the student in a viva, which is a private oral examination. A PhD normally takes 3 to 4 years to complete.
• An MSc by Research student will follow an approved programme of research supervised by a member of academic staff. The thesis is assessed solely on the basis of that research by two individually appointed examiners. An MSc by Research normally takes 1 year to complete.

Typical format of the degree

• All students will be allocated to a supervisor (or where appropriate two supervisors) at the beginning of the first academic year; normally the student and supervisor(s) will already have met or corresponded before admission.
• Thesis Advisory Panel (TAP) meetings will be held usually twice a year where your supervisor(s) plus at least one other member of staff will offer constructive feedback on your work and progress.
• Throughout the degree there will be the opportunity to pursue a programme of training in research and transferable skills tailored to your needs, as well as chances to present your own work through posters and talks.

Applying & Funding

Applications are accepted at any stage of the year

We strongly recommend that you make informal contact with the Centre before making any formal application

You will be asked on your application form to provide a brief outline of your proposed research area. This, together with the other information you provide on the form, will be reviewed by the Centre.

If you have not already visited us informally to meet and talk to us, and if it seems that your proposed field of research is one in which we are able to offer appropriate supervision, then you will normally be given the opportunity to come and talk to us about your plans, and see the University.

Applicants from overseas are particularly encouraged, wherever possible, to arrange with us a visit so that you can get a clear, first-hand impression of the Centre and its associated Departments, as well as the wider University and the City of York.

Our decision on your application will be based on our assessment of the potential for your successfully completing original doctoral research, which depends in part on whether we are able to offer you the necessary expert supervision.

Please note that the University pursues a policy of equal opportunities in offering places to read for postgraduate degrees, as in all appointments.

Follow this link to apply for a PhD

Follow this link to apply for an MPhil

Follow this link to apply for an MSC by research

Details of entry requirements will depend on the course applied for and the nature of your qualifications, further information can be obtained from the links and contacts listed below.

A qualification in English as a foreign language will be required for countries or qualifications where the language of instruction is not English. Students who have successfully completed a recent undergraduate or taught masters degree at a UK University are normally exempt from the English Language requirement.

Further details can be obtained from the Chemistry Postgraduate study pages or by contacting the Chemistry Graduate School Office: +44 (0)1904 324544, chemgrad@york.ac.uk

Funding

Although the Centre itself does not have any fund to directly support postgraduate research, there are a substantial number of scholarships/studentships available to support research leading to a PhD. Your nationality and residency will determine which of the studentships you are eligible for. Please see the pages on fees and funding for further details.

Self-funding

For those interested in self-funded projects, the following opportunities are available. We would also consider more bespoke projects that encompass our research aims and expertise. Please contact us for additional information.