City

What you'll study

CTN Research Degrees are research-led doctorates in which the principal activity is an extended original research project leading to a written thesis and an oral examination (viva). Study is organised around individual supervision, a research plan agreed with supervisors, and a programme of training and development delivered through the Doctoral College and CTN. Typical elements include:

• Design and delivery of original research: hypothesis generation, project planning, data collection and analysis, interpretation, and thesis writing.
• Research methods and specialist techniques: discipline-specific methods training and advanced methodological modules or short courses relevant to the project.
• Professional and transferable skills: training in research integrity and ethics, academic writing, presentation skills, grant writing, project and people management, and public engagement.
• Seminars and networks: participation in CTN research seminars, reading groups and collaboration with other research groups across City and partner institutions.
• Progression milestones: an initial probationary period with an upgrade/confirmation review, annual progress reviews, and a final viva voce examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a good undergraduate degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (for example a master’s degree with a research component) or demonstrate equivalent research experience. Successful applicants typically submit a concise research proposal aligned with CTN research themes, and provide academic references and a CV.

In addition:

• Applicants are expected to show evidence of prior research training or capability to work independently at doctoral level.
• International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements; evidence of comparable proficiency is acceptable where appropriate.
• Shortlisted candidates are usually interviewed by potential supervisors and the CTN admissions team to assess fit and feasibility.

Career prospects

A PhD from CTN prepares graduates for a wide range of careers. Many go on to academic posts such as postdoctoral researcher or lecturer, while others move into research and development roles in industry, consultancy, the public sector, healthcare, finance or technology, depending on their discipline. Graduates also pursue roles in policy, knowledge exchange, research management, and senior professional practice, where advanced analytical, project and communication skills are highly valued.

Why study at City

City offers access to a central London location with strong professional and industry links, which benefits doctoral researchers seeking partnerships, placements and interdisciplinary collaboration. The CTN research environment provides focused peer networks and research seminars, while the University’s Doctoral College offers structured training, supervisory support and career development services. City’s facilities, library resources and connections with external organisations support timely progression and the translation of research into impact beyond academia.