phd online birmingham

100% online degrees at the University of Birmingham

Career-centred, internationally focused and expertly taught. We use the latest digital learning techniques so that you can study whenever and wherever it suits you.

Challenge yourself to push forward the boundaries of knowledge and make an impact on people’s lives. Where will an online postgraduate degree take you?

Online postgraduate degrees

Developed exclusively for online, with the same standards as on campus, our 100% online postgraduate degrees will equip you with the tools to accelerate your skills and advance your career potential.

Online MSc Bioinformatics

Drive new discoveries for today’s data-driven health and life science industries by learning how to extract meaningful information from complex data sets.

Online MSc International Management

Develop a global mindset and shape your future at the head of big business with our AMBA-accredited online MSc.

Online LLM in Energy and Environmental Law

Get to grips with the necessary legal frameworks to respond to the world’s energy issues and the demands of climate change.

Enhance your ability to perform at the highest level in global business with the world’s first 100% online, AMBA-accredited programme.

Online Masters of Public Administration (MPA)

Uncover new pioneering public service practices, strategies and global perspectives, and bring change to your local community.

Online PGCert Design for Learning Environments

By bringing together the latest thinking in computing, design, the social sciences and education, the programme will help you design better learning experiences and seize upon new career opportunities across multiple sectors.

Online PGCert Design for Learning Environments: Postgraduate Microcredentials

Master a cross-section of digital and design skills to produce better learning experiences for learners and orginasations with a short 8-week course.

Online Masters of Public Administration (MPA): Postgraduate Microcredentials

Offered as a series of short, 8-week online courses. Learn the practices, principles and strategies of public services to make a difference to communities at home or abroad

Online Masters of Public Administration (MPA): (MOOC): Transforming Citizen Participation: Free Online Course

Explore best practices for using social media to communicate within the public sector and learn to engage with citizens effectively in this free, four-week course.

Online MSc Mental Health

The online MSc in Mental Health degree delivers interdisciplinary knowledge of mental health research, practice and policy with a youth emphasis.

Online PGCert Higher Education Policy into Practice

Expand the scope of your higher education career to influence higher education policy and change.

At a glance

World top-100 university (QS World University Rankings 2024)

most international university in the world (Times Higher Education 2024)

UK University (Complete University Guide 2024)

“Being an online student, I can confidently say that choosing the University of Birmingham for my studies has been one of the best decisions I have made. The University’s world-class reputation and rigorous curriculum have challenged and expanded my knowledge, preparing me to take on real-world business challenges with confidence.” – Alexander Oketch, Online MBA Student, Kenya

Tap into flexible learning

Offering full access to our acclaimed academics, research-informed content and career support services, our online learning programmes give you the opportunity to transform your career, from anywhere in the world, tailored to fit around your existing work and social commitments.

Support team

From the moment you enrol to the time you graduate, we will give you all the support you need to succeed. Whether you have questions about your application, assignment deadlines, technical issues or careers opportunities, we’re here to help.

University of Birmingham

We offer a variety of funded PhD projects from many research areas.

We offer a wide variety of opportunities for research at postgraduate level. The below tool, powered by Findaphd.com, will help you find our advertised research opportunities.

In addition to these project, we welcome enquiries from students looking to conduct research in other areas. You can find out more about the process of applying to propose your own research here.

Search for an advertised PhD

• Frequently Asked Questions

How can I apply for a PhD?

The course webpage for your chosen PhD programme (which can be found through the Course Search function) will have a link to the application form. The following How to find a research opportunity  webpage contains guidance on the application process. Please also visit our Application Guidance Notes  for further advice.

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Online PhD in Philosophy degree is a distance learning program that enables students to earn their Philosophy doctorate degree online. The Philosophy online PhD curriculum is largely the same as traditional Philosophy doctorate programs, and students take courses in subjects such as epistemology, metaphysics, ethics, historical concepts and other Philosophy topics. In addition to coursework, students must also complete a research dissertation.

An online PhD in Philosophy can be an excellent way to pursue your passion for Philosophy while maintaining your current lifestyle and commitments. Online courses offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to study at your own pace and on your own schedule. In addition, online PhD programs typically allow you to choose from a variety of courses, giving you the opportunity to tailor your studies to your specific interests. And because online programs are often more affordable than traditional programs, an online doctorate in Philosophy can be a great option for those on a budget.

Yes. A doctorate in Philosophy opens up many career opportunities for graduates. While many people assume that those with a doctoral degree in Philosophy will only be able to find work as professors in academia, this is not the case. In fact, there are many more positions that a PhD Philosophy diploma holder can work in.

See some examples below:

• Research positions:  Many businesses and organizations hire research staff to help them gain a better understanding of their customers or target market. A PhD in Philosophy can be an excellent foundation for a career in research, as it develops critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Policy analysis:  Policy analysts use their skills to assess the impact of government policies on issues such as economic growth, social welfare, and environmental protection. If you’re interested in working in this field, then a PhD in Philosophy can give you the ability to think deeply about complex problems and develop well-reasoned solutions.
• Writing:  A PhD in Philosophy can lead to a career as a writer or editor. If you enjoy communicating ideas through writing, then this could be an excellent way to use your skills. There is a growing demand for top tier writers who can communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely, making this an exciting field to consider.
• Consulting:  Many businesses hire consultants to provide them with expert advice on various topics. If you have high level expertise in a particular area of Philosophy, and of course a PhD is the highest level, then you may be able to find work as a consultant. This can be an excellent way to use your skills to help businesses make better decisions and solve problems more effectively.

PhD philosophers at the top of their career can expect to make an average of about  $90,000 per year. With time and experience, you could make much more than that.

An online doctoral degree program in Philosophy usually takes four to four to six years to complete. The first two years are typically spent completing coursework, with the remaining time devoted to writing and defending a dissertation. Many online PhD programs allow applicants to complete their coursework at their own pace, which can help to shorten the overall duration of the program. Some programs offer students the opportunity to complete their degree in as little as three years. While pursuing a PhD philosophy online may take longer to earn than a traditional PhD, it can come with the kind of flexibility that is suitable for those who are not in so much hurry – those who want to study while attending to other commitments of work or personal life. .

The best Philosophy Online PhD programs in 2024

This list of the top online Philosophy PhD certificate programs is based on analyzing the universities that do offer this program online. Of course, it must be noted that while many universities offer this course, not all of them offer the online option. The universities on this list are all highly accredited and respected institutions, and they all provide an excellent education in Philosophy. So if you’re looking for the best online Philosophy PhD program, you can find a suitable one here.

The  PhD in Philosophy  at Birmingham University is a research-intensive degree that equips students with the right skills to pursue their goals in career or personal interests.  Birmingham University is a top-rated university for Philosophy PhDs, and students may expect excellent education and research opportunities from the faculty. The faculty are experienced and passionate about their work, and you’ll be able to learn from the best while you’re in the program.

The program is highly competitive as the university accepts only a limited number of students each year, meaning they only admit not everyone but the very best.

You can choose to study for your Philosophy PhD in the traditional PhD approach, or through the PhD by Papers option. The latter means that you’ll have the chance to submit thematically unified papers on a range of topics, and you’ll also be given the opportunity to attend research seminars and present your papers. Either way, you’ll be supervised by a team of experienced academics, and you’ll have access to world-class PhD support.

Birmingham is among the very first Philosophy departments to offer a PhD by Papers option in the United Kingdom. This style of PhD thesis is common in the U.S. so students and graduates really love it. But not many UK Philosophy departments are offering it.

The program’s supervision is organized into the following areas:

• Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science
• Philosophy of Language
• Philosophy of Logic
• Philosophy of Mathematics
• Moral Philosophy (theoretical and practical)
• Metaphysics and Epistemology
• Philosophy of Religion

It might interest you to learn that Birmingham’s department of Philosophy was ranked 1st in the United Kingdom in the “Research Excellence Framework exercise 2021,  based on Grade Point Average (Times Higher Education)”. So you can be confident that you’re going to be learning from some of the best philosophers you can think of.

The  PhD in Philosophy  from the University of Buffalo is a well structured doctorate that has led many graduates to exciting careers paths. Graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy in Philosophy from the University of Buffalo are prepared for careers as college professors, researchers, or professionals in a variety of fields such as law, medicine, business, and government. The coursework for a PhD in Philosophy at the University of Buffalo includes studies in the history of Philosophy, ethical theory, logic, and more. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of Philosophy such as metaphysics, epistemology, or aesthetics. With a PhD in Philosophy from the University at Buffalo, graduates are prepared to enter into a variety of intellectually stimulating and rewarding careers.

The University of Buffalo’s Philosophy department is widely acknowledged among Anglo-American departments in the field of Philosophy. It’s indeed one of the best in the core sub disciplines of Philosophy that also cut across historical periods. Special interests, deep philosophical orientations, and a strong bond between students and faculty are some of the attributes that define the Philosophy department as a whole.

The program applies a hybrid learning model, meaning  some courses  can be taken on campus while others can be taken online. Students are required to complete 72 credit hours over a 5 year period of full time study. The application fee is $75, but can vary with time.

This PhD Philosophy program is formally registered and duly recognized by the New York State Education Department (SED).

The  doctoral program in Philosophy  at Sofia University St.Kliment Ohridski is a prestigious program that is highly competitive, and only the most qualified students are admitted. The program offers a comprehensive high-quality education in Philosophy, with a focus on research and writing. Students in the program will have the opportunity to work with some of the most respected scholars in the field. The program is designed to prepare students for careers as philosophers, teachers, or researchers. Graduates of the program have gone on to careers in academia, government, and the private sector.

This program allows students to take on-campus courses and distance learning taught online in what the University describes as the Bulgarian version.

Key areas of the Western Philosophy are covered in the course. Students have the option of writing their doctoral dissertation on a topic of their choice in the area of Eastern Philosophy. An expert in Eastern Philosophy is provided by the University for the students who would like to base their dissertation on this area of study.

While the faculty is responsible for the overall direction that the research takes, students are also given the freedom to pursue their preferences upon discussing with their supervisors.

The program enjoys recognition around the world, including North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

The  Philosophy PhD program  at Sussex University is an excellent way to pursue advanced studies in this fascinating field. The Philosophy department at Sussex is one of the most highly regarded in the UK, and the online PhD program feature is a flexible and convenient way to earn your PhD. The curriculum is designed to provide a broad foundation in the history of Philosophy, as well as in-depth knowledge of specific areas of interest. You will have the opportunity to work with leading scholars in the field, and the program provides ample opportunity for independent research. Whether you are interested in ancient Philosophy or contemporary issues, a Philosophy PhD at Sussex University will give you the tools you need to become a leading thinker in the field.

The Philosophy department is friendly, inclusive and open-minded, like all the departments across the programs in this list. These attributes are important for a PhD program like this where studies are based on subjects that require a lively  environment where students can comfortably engage in critical thinking plus healthy sharing.

Students get a chance to work with some of the most accomplished scholars, some of whom are working on revolutionary projects. Weekly workshops provide the perfect environment for students and faculty to engage in robust discussions that bring out the best in the program.

A thesis of 80,000 words is the climax of this program, signaling the end of a beautiful PhD Philosophy journey that will open doors to lucrative opportunities. Should your thesis project workload demand, the faculty can allow you to work with up to two supervisors .

Some of the research experiences at Sussex University’s Philosophy department include but are not limited to subfields:

• Political Philosophy
• Epistemology
• Post-Kantian Philosophy
• Islamic Philosophy
• Feminist Philosophy; sex and gender
• Philosophy of logic

The  Philosophy Ph.D  at Staffordshire University is designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field of philosophy. The program is delivered in a flexible manner, allowing you to study at your own pace and from anywhere in the world.

This program is best suited for students who are interested in pursuing the with a keen interest the below areas of Philosophy:

• The work of Friedrich Nietzsche
• Phenomenology (especially Heidegger)
• Poststructuralism
• The work of Michel Foucault
• The work of Michel Serres
• Posthumanism
• French epistemology and Philosophy of science
• Theory and practice based Philosophy subjects

One of the best things about the Philosophy program at Staffordshire University is that students are allocated a lead supervisor plus up to two other supervisors in support capacity. The supervisors are committed to assisting their students to create a strong foundation and build up towards solid success not only in the classroom but also in their career goals.

Besides the core research , students are also expected to participate in departmental activities. This could be anything from contributing in research seminars to taking part in reading groups with fellow students. You might also be called  upon to help organize conferences and play active roles in the coordination of visiting speakers.

Final Remarks

Philosophy is perhaps one of the most interesting areas of study. A PhD in philosophy makes it even more exciting as it propels your specialization to the highest level. Besides unlocking a world of opportunities, you also get to appreciate the finer aspects that define our lives. Not long ago, many aspiring PhD Philosophy students could not have fulfilled their dreams of reaching this level. But things have changed these days and now the availability of PhDs in philosophy online programs means that the costs have come down considerably, making it accessible for many people who may not have been able to afford it.

Cost is not the only parameter that makes this a great time to pursue online Ph.D. Philosophy programs.  It’s also about convenience. For those who are passionate about studying philosophy to the highest level but have no time or do not wish to attend in person full-time, then these programs no doubt present the perfect opportunity to fulfill your desires.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

Join us - Our PhDs

Looking to become an expert in your field? Birmingham City University is home to a supportive and friendly research environment, with access to experienced academic supervisors to guide you on your PhD journey. 

PhD Courses

Find out more about PhD courses on offer across our four faculties: Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment, Arts, Design and Media, Health, Education and Life Sciences and Business, Law and Social Sciences. 

Research Centres

Our research centres work to address key local, national and global challenges, in line with the priorities of the University and our students.

Fees and Funding

Find out more about all the funding opportunities that are available to you, as well as guidance on fees and studentships.

How to apply

Get help and advice on the application process, and find out what to expect when studying a PhD and sending your application.

Researcher Blog

Hear from our postgraduate researchers on what studying a PhD is like, from career opportunities to effective time management.

Got any queries or concerns about what studying is a PhD is like? Send us a question or find the answer in our FAQs.

VC's 2024 Studentship Scheme

Birmingham City University is delighted to launch the first phase of its Vice Chancellor’s Inaugural PhD studentship scheme, which is offering 23 doctoral studentships to undergraduates and taught postgraduates with the potential for onward teaching employment following completion of the doctoral study.

PhD Studentships

PhD studentships are PhD funding opportunities supported by the University and organisations, where your research will be actively used in overcoming real-world problems.

Contribute to research expertise at BCU and explore current PhD studentships here.

POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH EXPERIENCE SURVEY

The Postgraduate Research Experience Survey is open from 26 February to 16 May 2024.

The PRES 2024 survey is your opportunity as a PGR student to share your thoughts about your experience as a research degree student. 

On completion, choose to receive a £10 Amazon voucher or donate the amount to one of our chosen charities.

POSTGRADUATE RESEARCHER STORIES

We have an innovative postgraduate research community at BCU, who are committed to impacting their fields and shaping the future. Read some of their stories here.

Meet our researchers

BCU is home to talented and proactive research academics, who have created ground-breaking ideas challenging their field of study and the world.

Research projects

Solving real world problems with our expertise. Our research talent and drive to add a genuine contribution to knowledge help us make a difference through our work.

• Graduate Scholarship

The Graduate Scholarship is a 20% fee reduction available to all BCU graduates (BA, BSc, LLB, MA, MSc, LLM, PGCE) enrolling onto an eligible Master’s or PhD qualification  for the first time in 2024/25 . Find out more

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