Ph.D. by Research

Studying for a Ph.D. through UNYP

One of UNYP’s core values is excellence in research. In partnership with New York College Athens and the University of Greater Manchester, students can earn a Ph.D. UNYP encourages graduates from all disciplines to pursue a Ph.D. – the highest academic award offered – or an MPhil.

Through its partners, UNYP offers opportunities to study for a Ph.D. or MPhil in any subject where it has research expertise, supported by the relevant Academic Group, Research Centre, or Institute.

The Ph.D. by research is awarded to candidates who present and defend a thesis based on independent, original research that contributes to knowledge and demonstrates expertise in relevant research methods.

This program is ideal for those seeking supervised doctoral-level research, leading to a thesis of sufficient quality to justify a doctorate.

Candidates can apply directly for the Ph.D. or register via the MPhil route.

Research Subject Areas

New York College Athens and the University of New York in Prague, in association with the University of Greater Manchester, can support Ph.D. and MPhil students with research interests in the following subject areas:

Qualifying criteria

Doctorates are awarded to candidates who can:

• Conduct original research or advanced scholarship that generates new knowledge, meets peer review standards, expands subject understanding, and is worthy of publication.
• Gain substantial knowledge at the forefront of an academic field or professional practice.
• Design and execute research projects to create new knowledge, applications, or insights while adapting to new challenges.
• Master advanced research techniques and academic inquiry within their discipline.

Ph.D. candidates are also expected to:

• Make and defend well-informed judgments on complex issues, even with incomplete data, and communicate ideas clearly to both expert and general audiences.
• Conduct advanced research and development, whether theoretical or applied, significantly contributing to new techniques, ideas, or approaches in their field.
• Show personal responsibility and autonomous initiative in complex, unpredictable situations across academic, professional, and similar settings, while demonstrating professional qualities and transferable skills suitable for this educational level.

Important information about the Ph.D. program

• 3 to 4 years (full-time); 5 to 7 years (part-time)
• UNYP will support local students with registration and library facilities
• Degree awarded by the University of Greater Manchester program delivered from New York College, Athens

Requirements

Ph.D. candidates should hold at least an upper second-class honors degree (2.1) or equivalent in a relevant subject. A postgraduate qualification, research training, or relevant professional development is desirable. The University of Greater Manchester will interview candidates, with remote options available for those outside the UK. Non-native English speakers typically need an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.

Application Procedures

If you’re interested in pursuing a Ph.D., start by contacting UNYP’s Admissions Team to discuss your academic field and research plans. They will assist you in registering for the program at New York College Athens. The Postgraduate Advisor will help determine if your specialization can be supported.