We welcome applications from well-qualified graduates wishing to study with us for the MPhil or DPhil research degrees. Both research degrees can be studied part-time.
The School of Informatics is engaged in a wide range of highly rated research covering many areas of artificial intelligence, computer science and cognitive science. Our research is organised around a number of groups and centres, several of which are involved in interdisciplinary work including strong collaborations with other schools. We can supervise students in all areas in which school faculty specialise. Please feel free to contact directly potential supervisors of your proposed research project. Details of faculty and their research interests can be found by following the link to school faculty; for further information on our research follow the research groups link.
Candidates for our doctoral degree, the DPhil, pursue a research project under the guidance of their supervisor(s). The outcome of the research is written up as a DPhil thesis which should make a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding. The period of study for the DPhil is usually 2-4 years full time or 3-6 years part time.
Candidates for the MPhil degree pursue a research project under broadly the same conditions as those applying to DPhil candidates, except that the period of study is shorter (1-3 years full time, 2-4 years part time). An MPhil thesis is usually shorter than a DPhil thesis and must either make an original contribution to knowledge or understanding, or be a valuable presentation or interpretation of material put together in an original manner.
It is also possible to undertake a research degree in cognitive science via the New Route DPhil (refer to Postgraduate study at Sussex), which offers an integrated four-year programme of taught coursework in research methods and professional skills, and supervised doctoral research.
It may be possible to register for a research degree as an independent distant student. Only applicants who are resident outside the UK may register as an independent distant student. All such students must spend a minimum period of at least one term in attendance at the University.
Students admitted to research degrees will normally be required to do some research methods training in their first two terms, although an appropriate MSc often provides an alternative way of gaining the necessary knowledge. Students are also free to take relevant courses from our range of MSc degrees and are encouraged to make use of the Sussex SP2 programme which offers free training to all research students in generic and transferable research and business skills. Supervisors give advice on specific training requirements for individual students.