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Research subjects

The subjects you can study at research level encompass the breadth of expertise available at the ºÚÁÏÉç. Our research degrees enable you to pursue impactful and forward-looking research projects in the following areas:

• Applied Health Sciences
• Archaeology
• Architecture and the Built Environment [in draft]
• Arts and Humanities (including Art and Design, Communication: Cultural and Media Studies, Creative Writing, English Literature, Fashion and Textiles, History and Music)
• Biological and Life Sciences (including Chemistry and Forensic Science)
• Business and Management Studies [in draft]
• Computer Science and Informatics
• Economics and Econometrics
• Education
• Engineering
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Law
• Nursing and Midwifery
• Optometry and Vision Sciences
• Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Politics and International Studies
• Psychology [in draft]
• Social and Psychological Sciences (including Criminology/Criminal Justice, Public Health and Sociology)
• Social Work and Social Policy [in draft]

Pooja Prasoona Raja (PhD Researcher) 

PhD: Warming up Cold Cases: Evaluating the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Forensic Techniques in Investigations of Unidentified Victims 

“I completed my BSc in Life Sciences in India before moving to the UK to study an MSc in Forensic Science. My passion for research then led me to a in Archaeology, where I’d worked on a cold case analysis project with my supervisor. 

When my supervisor's research moved to the ºÚÁÏÉç, I decided to transfer too. The University made the process straightforward and supported me throughout my enrolment. I especially appreciated the help from the Doctoral College with transferring my student visa. I was in direct contact with the Head of the Doctoral College, who personally supported me until I arrived on campus. She keeps in touch with me and other PhD students, making sure we have the support we need throughout our research journey. 

The Doctoral College offers a wide range of training sessions to help postgraduate researchers develop new skills and connect with other students through regular events. One of the best additions has been the dedicated postgraduate research space in the Ramsden Building, giving PGR students a place to work, collaborate and build a sense of community. 

I've really settled into life at ºÚÁÏÉç. The Students' Union organises events specifically for postgraduate researchers, and I enjoy keeping active through Active Hud. I'm also the President of the PGR Social Society, where I help bring postgraduate researchers together and create opportunities to take a break from research, socialise and support one another. 

If you're an international student thinking about studying at ºÚÁÏÉç, I'd recommend. It's a welcoming and well-connected town with plenty of opportunities to get involved, meet new people and make the most of your university experience.” 

Tricia Quashie (Doctor of Education (EdD) 2026 Graduate)

Research title: Sixth Form and Further Education as a gendered working environment: A Matrifocal Critical Realist, Feminist exploration of how mother-educators in the Sixth Form and FE sector experience maternity and flexible working policies 

"I chose to study at the ºÚÁÏÉç because it's my local university and somewhere I already knew well, having both studied and worked here previously. The structure of the Doctor of Education (EdD) was a great fit for me, and the excellent reputation of the education department gave me confidence that I was making the right choice. As a parent of three children, the opportunity to study part-time alongside work was invaluable.

My research explored how mothers working in sixth form and further education colleges experience balancing motherhood and work throughout different stages of their maternal journey. Through interviews with mothers in the sector, I developed a new research framework that enabled me to analyse their experiences from a mother's perspective. Drawing on gendered organisation theories, my research highlighted how workplace policies do not always align with their intended outcomes and how wider structural and social factors can contribute to the production and reproduction of inequalities for mothers. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of my doctoral experience was developing my knowledge of research and theoretical frameworks, which has given me a new (niche!) interest. I also had the opportunity to present my research at conferences and publish my work, both of which were highlights of my doctoral journey. I found connecting with other postgraduate researchers very helpful. Building relationships with people going through similar experiences provided support and encouragement throughout my studies. 

My advice to anyone considering postgraduate study is to be prepared to discover just how much there is still to learn. It's also important to be open to developing and refining your academic writing skills. Most importantly, choose a research topic that you genuinely enjoy, because you'll be immersed in it for a long time, especially if you're studying part-time. It's a real learning experience and hugely worthwhile, so make the most of it. "

Omorinsola George (Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) 2026 Graduate)

Research title: Assessment of Gender Based Income Inequality: Exploring the Employment Gender Divide in the Outsourcing Service Sector in Nigeria

"I chose to study in the UK because I had previously completed my MSc here, which gave me a strong understanding of the British education system and the opportunities available through postgraduate study.

When researching universities, the ºÚÁÏÉç stood out because of its clear commitment to student success. The wealth of support available to students was evident from the information provided on the University website, and I was attracted by the welcoming and supportive environment. I also appreciated the campus itself, which offers a calm and peaceful setting that fosters ease of learning. The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) was particularly appealing because it provides valuable opportunities for professional development and supports my ambition to progress into senior industry roles.

As an international student, my experience has been academically enriching and eye-opening. I have benefited from conferences, postgraduate researcher training opportunities, and a range of internal and external development activities that have enhanced my research skills and broadened my perspective. 

My advice to other international students coming to ºÚÁÏÉç is not to be afraid to reach out for support. If you're facing a challenge, share it with someone you trust - there are people ready to help, whether that's members of staff or fellow students. You are never alone, and there is a strong support network available to help you succeed."