The MPhil and PhD degree programmes enable students to study a chosen area of research with leading researchers in the Department. These degrees are awarded following the successful submission of a thesis and subsequent oral examination. The MPhil degree is a two-year full-time or four-year part-time programme. The PhD degree is a three year full-time or six year part-time programme. PhD students are required to submit a preliminary report on their research at the end of their first year and undergo an oral examination to confirm their aptitude to continue their PhD study. In their third year, PhD students are expected to present a seminar on their work to the Department; the overall intention is to give research students the opportunity to develop both oral and written communications skills which are essential in a modern engineering environment. The progress of all research students is continually guided by a supervisor and a thesis advisory panel.

Students often have the opportunity to present their work at UK and overseas conferences and their work is frequently published in international journals. The department provides a conference travel fund to enable each PhD student to attend an international conference during their period of registration with us. Students apply to the fund with their supervisor. (In exceptional circumstances the department reserves the right to change or amend the travel fund arrangements as and when necessary.)