Birmingham City University

PhD Engineering Research Degrees

Birmingham City University

Course overview

The PhD Engineering Research Degrees at Birmingham City University are designed to support personal development, expand knowledge, and build core research skills and expertise in areas such as built environment, computing, health and law. This 3-4 year programme enables students to undertake independent study, supported by experienced supervisors, on research projects that often involve collaboration with industry partners. 

The Birmingham City University’s PhD Engineering Research Degrees offers students the opportunity to learn as they work through issues associated with solving a particular problem. Students get to have a more hands-on approach to their subject area, unlike most postgraduate taught courses, with regular opportunities to present and share their research and findings with other research students and staff.

Entry requirements

To apply for this course, applicants need to write a personal statement outlining their reasons for applying for the postgraduate degree at the university. It is mandatory for applicants to submit a research proposal along with their applications. They will also need to provide a reference letter from a teacher or an employer. If they have any relevant work experience, they can also include their CV with their application.

Grade Requirements: 

  • Applicants should possess a second-class upper (2:1) honours degree at undergraduate level in a related subject area. 

English Proficiency:

  • If English is not the first language you speak, you will need to show that you have a good understanding of English. Usually, this means getting an overall score of 6.5 in the IELTS test, with a minimum score of 6.0 in each section of the test. The university also accepts similar scores from other English language tests, such as PTE or TOEFL.

Scholarships

  • Accelerate Scholarship

    If you come from a lower income family or household, you could receive an offer that is up to four grades below our normal entry requirements – and possibly claim a £1,000 scholarship too.

    Up to £1,000

  • Bowater Financial Assistance Award

  • Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee discount for BCU graduates undertaking Master’s or PhD study.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International Postgraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a scholarship of £3,000 to all self-funding international postgraduate students joining BCU on a full-time postgraduate taught Master’s degree in 2026.

    Up to £3,000

  • International Undergraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a guaranteed scholarship of £5,000 to all self-funding international undergraduate students joining BCU on a full-time degree in September 2026.

    Up to £5,000

  • Sports Scholarship

    Enhanced performance support funding.

  • The High Achievers' Scholarship

    You will be eligible for a £1,000 scholarship to get your university life off to a flying start.

    Up to £1,000

Career opportunities

Graduates of the PhD Engineering Research Degrees at Birmingham City University can pursue various career roles, including:

  • Academic Researcher
  • Principal Investigator
  • Engineering Consultant
  • Product Development Engineer
  • Research Scientist
  • Technical Advisor

Cost of study

For international students, the tuition fee for the 2025/26 academic session for the PhD Engineering Research Degrees at Birmingham City University is £15,120.

Admission

If you would like help with your application, you can talk to our trained advisors. They can offer advice on how to make a strong application and ensure it meets the course requirements.

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