We welcome applications from well-qualified graduates wishing to study with us for the MPhil or PhD research degrees. These degrees can be studied full-time or part-time.
Members of Informatics are engaged in a wide range of highly rated research covering many areas of computer science, artificial intelligence and cognitive science. Our research is organised around a number of groups and centres, several of which are involved in interdisciplinary work with strong collaborations with other subject areas. We supervise research degrees in all areas of faculty specialism. Please feel free to contact potential supervisors directly about possible research projects. You can find appropriate contacts through information about example projects, and by browsing faculty home pages, and research group websites.
Candidates for PhD degree pursue a research project under the guidance of their supervisor(s). The outcome of the research is written up as a PhD thesis which should make a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding. The period of study for the PhD is usually 3-4 years full time or 4-6 years part time. We accept general applications all year round. Although most students typically start at the beginning of the academic year in October, students may instead begin their studies in January or April.
Candidates for the MPhil degree pursue a research project under broadly the same conditions as those applying to PhD 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 PhD 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 PhD (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 module often provides an alternative way of gaining the necessary knowledge. Students are also free to take advantage of the many opportunities for researcher development offered by the Doctoral School. Supervisors give advice on specific training requirements for individual students.