- Degree awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy; Master of Philosophy
- Duration
- PhD 3 Years FT; MPhil 1 Year FT
- Entry requirements
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The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is 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鈥檚 degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).
Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. Please contact the admissions team to check.
- How to apply
-
In your application you鈥檒l need to include:
- The name of this programme
- Your title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
- Your proposed name
- If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the
- A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
- Details of your previous university level study
- Names and contact details of your two referees.
Before applying we recommend that you read the 'Advice to Applicants' section.
- Sustainable Development Goals
Find out how this programme aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including learning which relates to:
- Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
Programme options
| Full-time | Part-time | Full-time distance learning | Part-time distance learning | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PhD | Y | Y | N | N |
| MPhil | Y | Y | N | N |
Programme description
The encompasses an exceptional breadth of research and training in materials, from design and development, to performance and protection and management and marketing. Our multidisciplinary research activity covers broad, socially relevant materials themes that allow us to meet the needs of industry and society.
Our research is organised into eight , although research projects often involve researchers in other groups, other schools, other universities and industry.
Polymers and composites research focuses on developing advanced polymers and multi-functional composites for a variety of applications. Research activities in this area include bio-inspired morphing composites, 3D printing polymers, self-healing polymers, stimulus responsive polymers, microgels, hydrogels, and fluorescent gels.
A research degree from the Department and the University is held in the highest esteem and recognised worldwide. Many of our graduates work in the most prestigious institutions and organisations throughout the world. Much of the Department's research has a significant impact on society and commerce.
The Department provides first-class opportunities and facilities for our students to study specific subjects in-depth to a postgraduate research degree level. There are flexible study packages available, as well as an extensive range of , and with many of our research students sponsored by a variety of Department, University and industry resources.
to browse our range of currently available projects.
Open days
Visit our to find out about upcoming open days and webinars.
Fees
For entry in the academic year beginning September 2025, the tuition fees are as follows:
-
PhD (full-time)
UK students (per annum): Band A - TBC; Band B - 拢7,400; Band C - 拢10,500; Band D - 拢15,200; Band E - 拢25,700
International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A - 拢29,400; Band B - 拢31,500; Band C - 拢37,300; Band D - 拢45,200; Band E - 拢59,900 -
PhD (part-time)
UK students (per annum): Band A 拢TBC; Band B 拢7,400; Band C 拢10,500; Band D 拢15,200; Band E 拢25,700
International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A 拢29,400; Band B 拢31,500; Band C 拢37,300; Band D 拢45,200; Band E 拢59,900
Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.
The programme fee will vary depending on the cost of running the project. Fees quoted are fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.
All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for鈥疕ome students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please .
Always contact the Admissions team if you are unsure which fees apply to your project.
Scholarships/sponsorships
There are a range of at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.
To be considered for many of our scholarships, you鈥檒l need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we鈥檇 highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.
For more information about our scholarships, visit our to search for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.
UN Sustainable Development Goals
The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.
Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.
To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our programmes address.
Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all
Contact details
- Department
- Contact name
- Postgraduate Research Admissions Team
- Telephone
- +44 (0) 161 529 3049
- fse.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk
- Website
- School/Faculty
-
Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality.聽 Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. .
Programmes in related subject areas
Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.
Regulated by the Office for Students
The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the .
You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our .