PhD Accounting

The PhD in Accounting programme offers a supportive environment to undertake original research and equips students with the theoretical and technical skills needed to produce quality research.

The degree is awarded by the University in recognition of the successful completion of a course of supervised research, the results of which show evidence of originality and independent critical judgement and constitute an addition to knowledge.

This programme is available in either full-time or part-time mode (3 years full-time and 6 years part-time). Students are registered initially for the degree of PhD (Doctor of Philosophy), although their status is probationary until the first Annual Review has taken place, normally between 12 and 18 months from first registration.

Candidates must hold a Bachelors degree with Honours (to UK standard) of  First or Upper Second (2:1) Class.

Applicants are also expected to hold a relevant Masters degree in finance, accounting or a cognate subject area. Normally we require performance at a distinction level, including any dissertation component or equivalent carried out. Professional qualifications other than a Bachelors Degree and/or relevant and appropriate experience may be taken into account for entry to a PhD programme. Professional qualifications are examined on their merits and may strengthen the case for entry.

English Language Requirement

• IELTS: 7.0 (with a minimum of 6.5 in each component)
• TOEFL: 100 internet-based or 623 paper-based (with a minimum of 22 in each component – internet based).
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE): 66 (with a minimum of 58 in each component)

Selection process

All applicants are interviewed by prospective supervisors or appropriate academic members of staff. This also provides an opportunity for the applicant to discuss their project proposal. For applicants in the UK, they are invited to attend the interview in person and for international applicant, it may not be possible for you to visit in person, so the admissions tutor may arrange for the interview be conducted by Microsoft Teams, email or phone.

Research Proposals

Applications should be accompanied by a 3000- word research proposal outlining a brief introduction of the specific area of study, referring to the current state of knowledge (i.e. what research has been done to date) and any recent debates on the subject, research philosophy and desirable methodology to be applied along with the completion plan.

Quality supervision

The aim of the Research Programme is to help students develop the following: a) a systematic and in-depth understanding in the subject area of choice of research by the student; b) the critical skills necessary to analyse and evaluate complex legal problems and related issues; c) To give students the opportunity to undertake a substantial independent research project at Level 7 of writing; d) research skills necessary to demonstrate familiarity with and understanding of the subject, its principal sources and authorities; e) To develop research skills necessary to display critical discrimination and a sense of proportion in evaluating evidence and the opinions of other authors in the subject.

High calibre staff

Most of our academic staff teach for three terms out of four, with the remaining term used for research. Because of this, we have no difficulty in attracting high calibre, highly respected lecturers, many of whom also have a background in business or industry and can offer networking opportunities for students.

Supervisory methods

Candidates spend a considerable part of their studies undertaking supervised research, at the end of which they submit a thesis embodying the results of that research. This thesis must demonstrate familiarity with, and an understanding of the subject, its principal sources and authorities. It should display critical discrimination and a sense of proportion in evaluating evidence and the judgements of others. The subject should be dealt with in a competent and scholarly manner. In addition to this:

1. All postgraduate research students are required to take the Research Methods Course.
2. All postgraduate research students must attend supervisory meetings
3. All postgraduate research students must attend any other training required to assist with the completion of the PhD.

Graduate employment

Our graduates have gone on to further study at most of the world’s leading universities, including Harvard, London, Oxford and Cambridge and secured jobs in senior positions around the world. Among our alumni we have a graduate who became the head of his country’s civil service and one who became a leading Formula One motor-racing driver. Another secured a position as the Minister of Sabah and one female law graduate became the first British lawyer to become a French Advocate.

The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.

Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.

Postgraduate loan scheme

A system of postgraduate loans for Masters’ degrees in the UK is supported by the UK Government. The loan will provide up to £11,222 for taught and research Masters’ courses in all subject areas. The loans can be used for tuition fees, living expenses or both.

Scholarships

Details of scholarships can be found on our Bursaries and Scholarships page. You should make an application to study at the University and receive an offer letter confirming our acceptance of your application before applying for a scholarship.

You may also find it useful to visit our External Funding page.

Apply directly

You can apply directly using our online application form – all you need to do is click the ‘apply’ button at the bottom of this page.