Self funded research degree (MPhil/PhD) Please state on your application if you are applying for a MPhil or PhD - April 2026 entry.

April 2026 start ONLY For January and October starts please use the relevant application.

This form is only to be used by those self-funded applicants seeking a place on a research degree programme at Harper Adams University (MPhil or PhD). Please see other listings for funded opportunities that may be available.

Applicants must have their own, their employer's or their Government's funding. A letter of "Confirmation of funding" must be attached/uploaded during the application process.

Candidates should supply a brief research proposal of 2-4 pages.  This should include a brief literature review to the research question including identification of the knowledge gaps, clearly identify the aims of the research and briefly detail the methodology and resources required. 

If candidates do not have a specific research proposal prepared, then they should write two or three sentences on an academic area of interest in which they wish to study for a PhD.

If a more detailed proposal is required for an external funding body, then candidates should discuss this with potential supervisors before they write the proposal.

Please state on your application if you are applying for a MPhil or PhD.

Where you are required to upload a document that is not appropriate, please upload a word document stating "Not Applicable".

Please note that due to the time required to conduct the recruitment process, a minimum time to be able to provide an offer letter following interview, if successful, is typically two weeks.

The closing date for applications for an April 2026 start is Sunday 1st March 2026.  

If you have not received contact from the PGR Office within 4 weeks of submission please assume we have been unable to support your application at this stage.

Closing Date: 01 Mar 2026

Department: Self-Funded Research Degrees