University of Surrey

PhD Psychology

University of Surrey

Course overview

The PhD in Psychology at the University of Surrey is a research degree designed for those who want to contribute new knowledge in psychological science and deepen their knowledge in this field. It is aimed at students who are ready to conduct independent original research in psychology and related fields.

During the programme, you will design and execute a research project under supervision, using both qualitative and quantitative methods. You will learn in modern research facilities, including advanced labs and high-standard tools. Your progress will be checked through regular meetings, and you will complete the course by submitting and defending your thesis.

This PhD in Psychology equips you with the skills to become an expert researcher, ready for roles in academia, government, public health, private research centres, consultancy, or leadership in psychology-informed fields.

Entry requirements

To apply for this course, you will need to submit a research proposal showing your intended area of study, your academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement explaining why you wish to pursue a PhD in psychology.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants are expected to hold a master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field, usually with strong performance, plus an undergraduate degree at least upper second class (2:1).
  • Equivalent international qualifications are accepted.

English Proficiency:

  • If English is not your first language, you need to show proficiency in English through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent, in line with the University of Surrey rules.

Scholarships

  • Discounts for Surrey Graduates

    As graduate of Surrey you may be eligible for a 20 per cent discount on our taught masters programme fees.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Early Payment Discount

    The discount is awarded as a £2,000 fee waiver for eligible students in the first year of their studies.

    Up to £2,000

  • ICAEW Foundation Bursary

    The ICAEW Foundation Bursary will be given as a one-off payment of £5,000 for one year of postgraduate study.

    Up to £5,000

  • International Alumni Discount for Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS

    The discount of 20% only applies to the first year of the Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS programme.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International Excellence Award (Postgraduate)

    This prestigious £5,000 award recognises academic excellence and is awarded to selected students starting a masters degree at Surrey.

    Up to £5,000

  • International Excellence Award (Undergraduate)

    The scholarship is awarded as a £5,000 fee waiver.

    Up to £5,000

  • ISTAT Foundation Scholarship Program

    Contributing to the development of future aviation professionals by providing funds and avenues for students with a keen interest in commercial aviation.

  • Surrey MBA AI Pathfinders Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Eastern Europe Bridge Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Employer Partnership Scholarship

    This scholarship allows the Surrey MBA to match employer contributions towards the tuition fee up to 40%.

  • Surrey MBA Enterprise Trailblazer Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Service Stewardship Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Women in Leadership

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10 – 50% of the tuition fee.

  • The Professor GQ Max Lu Global Scholarship

    The total value of the award is £30,000 (£10,000 x 3 years).

    Up to £30,000

Career opportunities

Graduates with a PhD in Psychology from Surrey often go into roles such as:

  • University Lecturer
  • Research Scientist
  • Clinical Psychologist
  • Health Psychology
  • Policy Analyst

Cost of study

International students pay £24,500 in tuition for the PhD in Psychology at the University of Surrey.

Admission

Applicants can apply for the PhD Psychology programme through the University of Surrey’s online application portal. For further assistance, kindly reach out to one of our trained counsellors.

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