Postgraduate research

Growing research

You'll have an even wider choice of study areas at UEL, as we expand the number of our staff working on high-quality research.

Growing output of research

Our research power increased by 54% in REF 2021, to 538 compared to 350 in REF 2014.

Pioneering research

We're researching advanced robotic and neuroimaging techniques to develop pioneering treatments for stroke patients.

Why do research at UEL?

Your research at UEL will benefit from our location at the heart of Europe's largest regeneration area, rich in global companies and street-level creativity.

Our research programmes are wired into that energy, through our many contacts with our east London community neighbours. As part of our Civic Engagement drive, many of our taught research programmes involve working with community projects - helping real people and advancing knowledge at the same time.

There are no barriers. You'll be working closely with our academic staff - and in many cases have a chance to gain teaching experience by supervising undergraduates. Our postgraduate students highly rate their training and the degree of responsibility we offer: 89 per cent of postgraduate students felt they were encouraged to ask questions or make contributions in taught sessions, while 82 per cent felt their research skills had developed during their courses.

We'll give you the tools of the trade too: we've invested £170 million in new buildings and facilities over the past few years - including our new £14 million library on our Docklands campus.

How do I fund my research?

Start your postgraduate journey today by finding out about available funding sources.

If you graduated from UEL you may be eligible for a postgraduate course discount. If you progress directly with no gap year, you may receive up to 25 per cent discount, alternatively, you will receive a 10 per cent discount. See our Alumni Discount page for more details.

Find out about postgraduate funding

Play

Study a PhD at UEL

Hear from Simone, who is studying for a PhD in Public Health, about her experience

What are my research options?

By studying for a research degree at UEL, you are making a big investment in your career, and making yourself stand out in an ever-more competitive jobs market.

A research degree is a big commitment, so you'll need to be highly organised, motivated and able to work independently for a minimum of three years' full-time study.

Whether you're motivated by a passion for study, a deep interest in a particular field where UEL has expertise, or simply to advance your career, you'll find UEL a supportive place to pursue your interests.

The main research-based courses are the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Masters of Philosophy (MPhil). There are also many professional doctorates - aimed mainly at professionals who have already begun their careers.

You should study the relevant School's pages and courses to see if there is an academic member of staff who might be able to supervise your study.