School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences

PhD Postgraduate research in Engineering

PhD Full-time 4 years, Part-time 8 years

Research degrees in the School of Engineering can provide students with opportunities in a multitude of career paths, including academia, government, and the private sector.

Research degrees in the School of Engineering can provide students with opportunities in a multitude of career paths, including academia, government, and the private sector.

Award
PhD
Start date(s)
Variable start date
UCAS Code
Course specifications
Course length
Full-time (4 years),Part-time (8 years)
Campus location
University: City Campus,University: Telford Campus
UCAS points calculator

Why choose this course?

PhD Supervisor

Photo of Prof Arun Arjunan

Arun Arjunan is the Director of the Centre for Engineering Innovation and Research (CEIR) at the University of Wolverhampton. He also leads the Additive Manufacturing of Functional Materials (AMFM) research group.

The PhD in Engineering at the University of Wolverhampton offers a distinctive opportunity to advance your expertise within a cutting-edge research environment, addressing some of the most pressing challenges in engineering. Here’s why this programme is the ideal choice:

1. World-Class Expertise and Supervision

  • Work under the guidance of leading experts, including Prof. Arun Arjunan, Director of the Centre for Engineering Innovation and Research (CEIR), and leader of the Additive Manufacturing of Functional Materials (AMFM) research group.
  • Benefit from supervision by academics with extensive experience and a proven track record in successfully mentoring doctoral researchers.

2. State-of-the-Art Research Facilities

  • Carry out your research using advanced technologies and specialised facilities located at the University’s City Campus, designed to support innovation in engineering.
  • Access well-equipped laboratories focused on additive manufacturing, materials science, and sustainable engineering.

3. Comprehensive Professional Development

  • Participate in bespoke training programmes and workshops provided by the University’s Doctoral College, designed to enhance your academic and professional skills.
  • Gain valuable teaching experience by supporting undergraduate modules, strengthening your academic portfolio.

4. Industry and Research Networking

  • Present your work at national and international conferences, establishing connections with industry leaders and fellow researchers.
  • Engage in interdisciplinary projects through collaborations with the University’s engineering centres and external industry partners.

5. Flexible Study Options

  • Opt for full-time (4 years) or part-time (8 years) study modes, allowing you to balance your academic goals with personal and professional commitments.
  • Develop a tailored research focus aligned with your career aspirations, supported by dedicated supervision.

6. Research Excellence and Impact

  • Join a vibrant research environment recognised for its emphasis on applied engineering and innovation, tackling real-world challenges in areas such as advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and sustainable development.

This programme equips you with the skills, knowledge, and connections to excel in diverse roles and make a lasting impact in the field of engineering.

What's unique about this course?

  • Research Excellence: Access to the Centre for Engineering Innovation and Research (CEIR), led by renowned experts in advanced manufacturing and sustainable engineering
  • Advanced Facilities: State-of-the-art laboratories across our campuses, equipped with cutting-edge technology for experimental research and development
  • Industry Integration: Strong partnerships with leading engineering firms, offering opportunities for collaborative research and knowledge transfer
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Work alongside researchers from various engineering disciplines, promoting innovative solutions to complex problems
  • Publication Support: Structured guidance for publishing in high-impact journals, with opportunities to present at international conferences
  • Flexible Learning: Choose between full-time and part-time study options, with dedicated support for distance research activities when required
  • Innovation Focus: Emphasis on developing novel solutions and patentable technologies, supported by the University's commercial development team
  • Teaching Opportunities: Gain valuable academic experience through teaching and laboratory demonstration roles in undergraduate engineering modules

What happens on the course?

The PhD in Engineering at the University of Wolverhampton provides a structured and supportive framework to guide you through your research journey, ensuring you achieve academic and professional success. Here’s an overview of the key milestones:

1. Registration

  • Expression of Interest: Submit an online proposal outlining your research ideas and objectives.
  • Supervisor Allocation: Once your application is assessed and approved, you’ll be matched with an experienced supervisory team to help shape your research focus.
  • Proposal Development: Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research proposal, ensuring it aligns with both academic standards and industry needs.
  • Approval Process: Attend an interview and submit your final proposal to the Faculty Research Committee (FRC) for approval, confirming that your research is viable and appropriately resourced.

2. Induction and Initial Training

  • Participate in workshops and seminars hosted by the Doctoral College to gain a strong foundation in research methodologies and technical skills.
  • Familiarise yourself with the University’s facilities and resources, including state-of-the-art laboratories and advanced engineering tools.

3. Progression

  • Within 18 months (full-time) or 36 months (part-time), submit a detailed progress paper summarising your achievements and outlining future research plans.
  • Present your findings at a progression workshop, where your work will be assessed by an independent expert and the supervisory team.
  • Receive recommendations from the FRC, ensuring your research stays on track for successful completion.

4. Research and Development

  • Engage in hands-on experimentation, data collection, and analysis in specialised labs.
  • Collaborate with peers and industry experts to enhance the real-world relevance of your research.
  • Attend conferences and publish your findings in peer-reviewed journals to contribute to global engineering discourse.

5. Examination

  • Thesis Submission: Compile your findings into a comprehensive thesis that demonstrates originality and contributes new knowledge to the field of engineering.
  • Viva Voce (Oral Examination): Defend your research before a panel of examiners, including at least one external expert, ensuring your work meets the highest academic standards.

6. Research Dissemination

  • Present your research at the University’s annual research conference, engaging with a wider academic audience.
  • Disseminate your findings through publications and partnerships with industry stakeholders, ensuring your work has a tangible impact.

This structured progression ensures a rigorous and rewarding research experience, equipping you with the expertise to excel in your chosen field.

Potential Career Paths

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

The University of Wolverhampton is an exceptional choice for your PhD in Engineering, offering world-class expertise, cutting-edge facilities, and a thriving research community. Additionally, the University welcomes research proposals in diverse and impactful areas, ensuring your work contributes meaningfully to the engineering discipline.

  1. Renowned Academic Expertise

    • Collaborate with leading researchers such as Prof. Arun Arjunan, Director of the Centre for Engineering Innovation and Research (CEIR), who specialises in additive manufacturing and materials innovation.
    • Benefit from a research culture committed to solving real-world engineering challenges.
  2. State-of-the-Art Facilities

    • Conduct your research at the City Campus, home to advanced laboratories equipped for additive manufacturing, materials analysis, and sustainable engineering.
    • Access cutting-edge technologies that support innovative and impactful research.
  3. Professional and Academic Development

    • Enhance your skills through bespoke workshops, seminars, and training programmes offered by the Doctoral College.
    • Present your work at international conferences and build your academic portfolio by contributing to peer-reviewed publications.
  4. Industry Partnerships

    • Engage in collaborative research with industry leaders, addressing pressing challenges and ensuring your work remains relevant and impactful.
    • Leverage the University’s strong links with the engineering sector to explore internship opportunities and real-world applications of your research.
  5. Supportive Research Environment

    • Join a dynamic and inclusive research community that fosters collaboration and interdisciplinary exploration.
    • Participate in the University’s annual research conference, where you’ll showcase your findings and gain valuable feedback from peers and experts.
  6. Flexible Study Options

    • Choose from full-time (4 years) or part-time (8 years) study modes to suit your personal and professional commitments.

Research Areas

The University of Wolverhampton welcomes research proposals in areas such as:

  • Additive Manufacturing: Development of novel methods and materials for 3D printing and advanced fabrication.
  • Sustainable Engineering: Innovations to promote environmental sustainability in design, materials, and processes.
  • Materials Science: Exploration of new materials and their applications in engineering.
  • Renewable Energy Technologies: Research into sustainable energy solutions, including wind, solar, and energy storage systems.
  • Engineering Design and Optimisation: Advanced techniques for improving efficiency and performance in engineering systems.
  • Smart Manufacturing Systems: Integration of digital technologies to optimise manufacturing processes.
  • Structural Integrity and Durability: Investigating the long-term performance and resilience of materials and structures.

This combination of academic excellence, cutting-edge resources, and diverse research opportunities makes Wolverhampton a prime destination for your doctoral studies in engineering.

The PhD in Engineering at the University of Wolverhampton equips you with a diverse and advanced skill set, preparing you for leadership roles in academia, industry, and research-intensive organisations.

1. Advanced Research and Analytical Skills

  • Master cutting-edge methodologies to design and execute complex engineering research projects.
  • Develop expertise in data collection, analysis, and interpretation using advanced tools and techniques.

2. Technical Proficiency

  • Gain hands-on experience with specialised engineering tools, including additive manufacturing technologies, materials testing equipment, and renewable energy systems.
  • Learn to utilise software for simulation, modelling, and optimisation in engineering applications.

3. Academic and Professional Communication

  • Write high-quality research papers and technical reports suitable for publication in prestigious journals.
  • Deliver compelling presentations at conferences and seminars to communicate your findings to academic and professional audiences.

4. Leadership and Project Management

  • Acquire project planning and management skills to oversee large-scale research initiatives, ensuring milestones are met efficiently.
  • Develop the ability to lead and collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary and multicultural teams.

5. Problem-Solving and Innovation

  • Tackle complex engineering problems with creativity and evidence-based solutions, contributing to advancements in the field.
  • Explore sustainable and innovative approaches to engineering challenges, ensuring real-world impact.

6. Networking and Collaboration

  • Build a robust professional network through collaboration with peers, academics, and industry leaders.
  • Gain exposure to global engineering trends through participation in conferences and collaborative research projects.

7. Teaching and Mentorship

  • Enhance your academic profile by gaining teaching experience through supporting undergraduate modules.
  • Develop mentorship skills by guiding junior researchers and sharing insights within research forums.

These skills position you to excel in a range of engineering roles, driving innovation and influencing progress in the discipline.

Location Mode Fee Year
Home Full-time £4596 per year 2022-23
Home Full-time £4596 per year 2022-23
Home Full-time £4712 per year 2023-24
Home Full-time £4786 per year 2024-25
Home Full-time £5006 per year 2025-26
Home Part-time £2298 per year 2022-23
Home Part-time £2298 per year 2022-23
Home Part-time £2356 per year 2023-24
Home Part-time £2393 per year 2024-25
Home Part-time £2503 per year 2025-26
International Full-time £14450 per year 2022-23
International Full-time £14450 per year 2022-23
International Full-time £15450 per year 2023-24
International Full-time £15950 per year 2024-25
International Full-time £16950 per year 2025-26

The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed

 Applicants for a research degree shall normally hold either:

 • a first or upper second class honours degree, or

 • a master’s degree, or

 • evidence of prior practice or learning that is accepted by the Dean of Research.

For an applicant wishing to pursue a Research Degree in the area of Engineering, whose entry award was not delivered in English, or non-native speaker of English shall be required to demonstrate proficiency in English at least to the level of an IELTS score of 6.5 (Writing - 6.5 and no less than 6.0 in any other component) or its equivalent. 

 

Financial support for research study:

Before applying, you should consider carefully how you will finance your studies for the duration of your programme, including tuition fees, research support fees and living costs.


Government loans (Home Fee Status):

Government loans are available for postgraduate research students of up to £28,673, to cover fees and living expenses. More information can be found at Doctoral-loans website.


Studying in the UK:Guidance for EU students

For 2021/22 new entrants, EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fee status and financial support from Student Finance England.


Self-funded:

We are able to take payments in instalments, to spread out the cost of your studies, and it is possible to switch between full-time and part-time modes of study. For more information go to How to pay.


Postgraduate Research Loyalty Discount:

To students progressing from an undergraduate programme and/or a taught postgraduate programme to a postgraduate research programme, where both courses are University of Wolverhampton Awards.

There is no time limit on how long ago you completed your degree and/or Masters level qualification, as long as the new award is at a higher level.

For full terms and conditions please see: Loyalty Discount for Postgraduate Research Students


Research councils:

The UK Research and Innovation funds postgraduate study in all subject areas on a discretionary basis.


University Research Studentships:

The University offers a very limited number of research stipends, formerly known as bursaries, to research students. Stipends are designed to support specific projects as determined by the Research Institute rather than individual student-led projects. Funds are accessible from the relevant Research Institute or Centre - please contact them directly.


Other sources:

Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

Online

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