PhD and Doctoral Study
What is a PhD and Doctorate?
A PhD – which stands for Doctor of Philosophy - is a doctoral degree that emphasises research in a specific field. It’s characterised by its theoretical orientation and requires research efforts to contribute to new knowledge.
In contrast, the term doctorate degree serves as a broad category encompassing various doctoral-level degrees. This category can be divided into two main types: academic (PhD) and professional.
Doctorates are the highest level of degree you can earn, meaning that you have mastered a specific area of study.
Types of courses
You might be considering the difference between a doctorate and a PhD, and if there are any other study options.
In some areas of study, you can decide between a professional doctorate and a PhD. For example, you could earn a PhD in Education or a Doctor of Education (EdD). At Newcastle, we offer three types of doctoral study: PhDs, Integrated PhDs (IPHDs) and Professional doctorates. Find out what each one means, below.
PhDs at Newcastle
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) concentrates on original research that makes significant contribution to the knowledge of a specific subject. Your research will enable you to become an expert in your chosen topic. It requires a significant time commitment, usually three years full time.
You'll develop your project with help from an academic supervisor or team of supervisors. This could be theoretical or involve working with an industrial partner to develop new products. It depends on your subject and research interests.
To complete a PhD you will produce a piece of work (80,000 – 100,000 words) in the form of a supervised thesis. It should show evidence of originality and be suitable for publication.
You'll attend research training sessions and carry out independent research with advice and supervision provided by a designated academic team.
PhDs are awarded in all subject areas. For professionally qualified doctors, an MD (Doctor of Medicine) is awarded.
Integrated PhDs at Newcastle
Our Integrated PhDs (IPhDs) address changes in the knowledge and skills demanded of PhD graduates. They are flexible, practical programmes, which combine advanced training in research skills with original research.
Each integrated PhD contains:
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a significant and tailored taught component
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an annual assessment
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a research project written up as a thesis
The taught component is the main difference between the IPhD and a standard PhD programme.
Lasting from three to four years full time, some IPhDs can be taken part-time over a longer period.
IPhDs are intended for middle or senior level managers that may work in public or private sector organisations. A broad and advanced knowledge base is required, as well as an understanding of disciplinary enquiry.
Integrated PhDs at Newcastle include:
Professional doctorates
Professional doctorates are different from other doctoral awards. They fulfil the formal training required for particular professions.
They are practical programmes combining original research with taught modules and work placements. The balance between these components varies depending on the requirements of the profession.
The main difference between a professional doctorate and a PhD is the focus on work-based practice. This is contrast to research in an academic context. Your research project will be informed by your professional practice.
Professional doctorates at Newcastle include:
Why study a PhD or Doctorate Newcastle University?
With an outstanding reputation for academic excellence, we’ve been recognised as a global top 130 university (QS World University Rankings 2025). Research shows we're one of the UK universities that top graduate employers target the most. We were awarded 5 QS Stars for Student Employability (2024).
When studying a postgraduate research (PGR) degree with us, you’ll be supported through our Doctoral College. This includes:
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a customised research development programme featuring workshops tailored to your academic and career objectives
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career consultations, workshops, and coaching sessions
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participation opportunities in competitions and events
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personalised training needs analysis and research development training provided to each student
Extra support from our doctoral training centres, faculty training programmes, and award-winning Research Student Support Team is available throughout your studies with us.