How to apply

Before submitting your Application Enquiry Form, you must select a project. Browse our projects and email the CDT team if you're unsure or require guidance.

International applicants

Please note: some of our projects are only available for Home students due to the nature of the research and clearance checks required from industry partners. Projects that are open to international applicants will be specified in the FindAPhD advert.

Ensure your qualifications meet the entry requirements for your project. Our standard entry requirements are: An Upper-Second class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any Upper-Second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent). 

Summarise your academic record and highlight experience that demonstrates your potential to conduct research.

• Please complete the enquiry form to express your interest.
• We strongly recommend you contact the project supervisor after completing the form to speak to them about your suitability for the project. You can find their details on the project listing, or if you’re unsure, email the CDT team.
• If your qualifications meet our standard entry requirements, the CDT Admissions Team will send your enquiry form and CV to the named project supervisor.

• After you have had an informal conversation with the supervisor, they will decide which applicants to invite for a formal interview. The formal interview will be with the project supervisors and a member of the CDT team (either the CDT Director or CDT Coordinator).
• View our postgraduate research website for advice on preparing for a postgraduate research interview.

If you are successful at the formal interview, you will then be asked at this stage to complete your application.

• All applications must be made online via the University's online application form. The online form is generic and is used for all postgraduate degrees. Most of the pages are intuitive, but if you need any guidance, please email the CDT.
• Once on the University website's application page, select the apply online button and follow the instructions to create an account.
• Please email our CDT to let us know that you have submitted an application. This will help us to find your documents in the application system in a timely manner.