Embarking upon a research degree at Bournemouth University is one of the most exciting stages of your academic career. It’s a voyage of discovery – so we want to make sure you have as much support as possible during what promises to be a life-changing experience.

We are proud to be offering a broad range of funded studentship opportunities, strongly aligned to our BU2025 vision and values, the areas of strength in which our research makes the greatest impact, and our strategic investment areas: Assistive Technology, Animation, Simulation & Visualisation, Sustainability & Low Carbon Technology and Medical Science.

This commitment to greater expansion of our research work demonstrates BU’s significant investment in our Doctoral College, supporting growth in innovation and developing future talent and expertise in our PhD & MRes students.

We offer you the opportunity to work with external organisations on many of our matched-funded research projects, recognising that partnering with outside companies and charities will broaden your knowledge and experience beyond academia. Many of these projects allow you to participate in cutting-edge applied research areas, generating immediate and tangible societal impacts.

Be assured you will joining a world-leading research community, with the support of a team of dedicated, enthusiastic academic and professional support staff who will ensure your work is efficient, enjoyable and, most of all, successful. All of this within a fabulous location, with seven miles of award-winning sandy beaches amongst the many delights of Bournemouth, attracting a vibrant and creative community.

For questions about our PhD Studentship offering please contact the team on [email protected] 

Browse our funded studentships by faculty

Who is eligible to apply for a funded BU PhD & MRes Studentship?

The BU PhD and MRes Studentships are open to UK and International students.

Candidates for a PhD Studentship should demonstrate outstanding qualities and be motivated to complete a PhD in 4 years and must demonstrate:

  • Outstanding academic potential as measured normally by either a 1st class honours degree (or equivalent Grade Point Average (GPA) or a Master’s degree with distinction or equivalent
  • An IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 minimum (with a minimum 6.0 in each component, or equivalent) for candidates for whom English is not their first language and this must be evidenced at point of application.

Candidates for an MRes Studentship should demonstrate outstanding qualities and be motivated to complete a MRes in 18 months and must demonstrate:

  • Outstanding academic potential as measured normally by an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent Grade Point Average (GPA)
  • An IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 minimum (with a minimum 6.0 in each component, or equivalent) for candidates for whom English is not their first language and this must be evidenced at point of application.

In addition to satisfying minimum entry criteria, BU will look closely at the qualities, skills and background of each candidate and what they can bring to their chosen research project in order to ensure successful completion.

Applicants will be asked to submit an online application form and a proposal (approximately 1500 words) outlining their understanding of the project for which they are applying, the approach they would envisage taking and what qualities they will bring to the research community.

Please note:

  • Current BU doctoral students are not eligible to apply for a funded PhD Studentship
  • Current MRes/MPhil students can apply, subject to satisfactory completion of their Research Degree prior to being able to take up the award
  • PhD Studentships cannot be used to support BU staff to complete doctoral programmes

What else will BU look for in successful candidates?

Each funded PhD & MRes Studentship has specific criteria that candidates need to fulfil, in terms of knowledge and/or expertise. In addition, we will look closely at your qualities, skills and background to determine what you could bring to a specific research project.

How can I apply for a funded BU Studentship?

There are individual application deadlines for each funded PhD & MRes Studentship, which are detailed on the relevant page. To apply, click the green Apply Now button and complete our online application form. More information can be found on our How to apply pages. You can also read our proposal guidance document here.