Education & Health Sciences - Structured PhD

Doctor of Philosophy run across six schools / departments whereby the research thesis is supervised in a department of your choice.

Key programme benefits to future students
To provide a programme that is academically rigorous at a level appropriate to postgraduate research and consistent with standards nationally and internationally.

To educate students in all aspects of research and critical evaluation, including research methodologies, systematic and theoretical literature reviews and ethics.

To provide skills appropriate for research in professional contexts. To facilitate candidates’ expertise in translational research and foster practices that promote research impact which has significance both nationally and internationally.

Sports Performance
Autumn Modules
• Introduction to Postgraduate Research (on campus) (6 ECTs)
• Entering the Academic Community (3 ECTs) on campus
• 3 x Research hand elective modules chosen from a suite of UL-wide and specialist modules over a three-Year period (6-12-ECTs) each on campus, online and blended • PG Workshops and Professional Portfolio level 10 (12 ECTs)

Spring Modules
• Research Integrity (3 Ects) on campus, online
• PG Workshops and Professional Portfolio level 10 (12 ECTs), no contact hours

Applicants will be expected to hold an Honours degree (minimum 2.2) or equivalent in a discipline appropriate to their area of research.

Applicants pursuing a Structured PhD via the Education pathway will normally have:
• Minimum of 3 years’ full-time professional practice or equivalent in an educational setting or related interdisciplinary area.

• Normally hold a Master’s degree or a minimum of a 2:2 Honours degree, a Higher Diploma, or a Postgraduate Diploma in Education or a cognate discipline.

• Other qualifications may be considered under the University regulations.

English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application):

IELTS – Minimum score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any one component.

Preparing your Application:
1. Research your programme: Each postgraduate programme at University of Limerick is unique. Explore your course content, duration, fees, and entry requirements on ul.ie.

2. Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the course you are interested in. This usually includes your undergraduate degree award, subject specialities, English language proficiency (for non-native speakers), and any specific requirements for the course.

3. Prepare Documents: Gather all the necessary documents. This typically includes your academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, and references. If English is not your first language, you’ll also need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency.

4. Online Application: Once you are ready to apply, visit your postgraduate programme page on ul.ie/gps and use the Apply Now button to access UL’s online application system. You will need to create an account if you are a new user.

5. Complete the Application: Fill in the application form with all the required details. This will include personal information and academic history.

6. Upload Documents: Upload all the necessary documents that you prepared earlier. Make sure they are clear and legible.

7. Submit Application: Review your application thoroughly to ensure all information is correct and then submit your application. The application fee for your postgraduate application is €50. This includes an option to choose a second choice.

8. Track Your Application: After submission, you can track the status of your application through the online application system.

9. Interview: Depending on the programme, you may be invited for an interview. This could be in person or online.

10. Acceptance: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer email from the university. You will need to accept this offer to secure your place.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and places offered to successful candidates. This means that it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible to increase your chances of securing a place.

Please note that these steps are a general guide and the exact process may vary depending on the specific programme and your individual circumstances. Always check the University of Limerick website or contact the postgraduate admissions department for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

4 years (with up to 2 years added), on-Campus and online, full-time and part-time.

Graduate careers
Accomplished researchers with a sPhD from a renowned Structured PhD Programme.