University of Bath

A world-class University in a World Heritage city

At Bath, we are known for excellence in teaching and research, our welcoming community, and for providing students with outstanding preparation for the workplace. We are ranked 5^th best university in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2024. We’re also ranked 4th for graduate prospects in the Complete University Guide 2024 and 5th for career prospects after 15 months, by the Guardian University Guide 2024.

92% of our research is world leading or internationally excellent (according to the Research Excellence Framework (REF)2021).

Doctoral researchers who join us enjoy a diverse, research-intensive environment with a strong interdisciplinary ethos. They have the opportunity to work with academics and researchers of international reputation, known for the originality and significance of their work.

Find out more about how to apply for doctoral study or explore programme specific research degrees.

We also have a number of funded studentships that are available across our three Faculties and School:

• Engineering and Design
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Science
• Management

Join our growing Doctoral College community and your network will include students from around the world, studying across a range of programmes including PhDs and integrated PhDs, MPhils and professional doctorates. Around a third are studying part time, some combine research and a career, many are based on campus and others are in professional organisations.

You will share ideas and best practice, attend seminars and conferences and explore thinking at the forefront of your discipline. You will gain access to resources and archives at four leading research institutions through our GW4 Alliance. And you will benefit from our Doctoral skills programme that will give you the tools to support your research, and give you a head-start in your chosen career.

Meet our Doctoral College community

The city

Bath is a lively, friendly, and historical city, surrounded by beautiful countryside. It is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list twice: for its historic architecture and as one of the Great Spas of Europe.

Small enough to explore on foot, you can discover its beautiful stone buildings and the natural hot springs which gave the city its name. Indulge yourself in year-round arts festivals, museums, galleries, and spa and get involved with the local community with our great volunteering opportunities.

Our campus

The University’s campus is set on attractive rural grounds overlooking the historic city of Bath. You don’t have to walk far to reach facilities like the library, shops and a post office.

In the last decade, we have invested over £450 million in our campus. This includes new accommodation, academic buildings and sport facilities such as a Olympic legacy swimming pool and a gym and fitness centre across three floors.

Experience the university at a postgraduate event

Virtual Open Days

Find out what it is like to study at Bath wherever you are.

We hold Virtual Open Days several times a year so you can experience the University without coming to campus.

Our next Postgraduate Virtual Open Day will take place on Wednesday 5 February 2025

Chat live with current postgraduate students who will answer your questions and tell you about their experience of living and studying here. Talk to our staff and find out what you need to know about admissions, accommodation, and careers.

Register now for our Postgraduate Virtual Open Day on 5 February 2025

On-campus Discovery Days

Our next Postgraduate Discovery Day will take place on Wednesday 5 March 2025. Bookings for the event will open in December.

Postgraduate Research

Download our Master’s Prospectus

For more information about doctoral study at Bath visit our website and follow us on Twitter @DoctoralBath.