Entry Requirements

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

If you are applying for a PhD, you should have a Masters degree which matches the descriptor for a Level 7 qualification in the UK Framework of Higher Education Qualifications, and compromises one of the following:

• Masters degree with Distinction from a UK University
• Masters degree with Merit from a UK University, including a Distinction grade for the dissertation (or equivalent)
• Masters degree from a UK University that does not offer awards with Merit, the Registrar having confirmed that the profile of marks awarded by that University satisfies or exceeds Liverpool Hope University's requirements for the award of a Master's Degree with Merit, and that the dissertation (or equivalent) was awarded a Distinction grade; or
• An equivalent qualification from outside the UK. Please note that equivalency of qualifications is judged by Liverpool Hope University, and all decisions are final.

In addition, you must be able to demonstrate a high level of competence in written and spoken English.

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

If you are applying for an MPhil, you should normally possess a Masters degree which matches the descriptor for a Level 7 qualification in the UK Framework of Higher Education Qualifications i.e.

• Masters degree from a UK University; or
• An equivalent qualification from outside of the UK

In addition, you must be able to demonstrate a high level of competence in written and spoken English. 

Advanced Standing

MPhil and PhD applicants who have successfully completed one or more years of full-time study (or two or more years of part-time study) for a research degree at a UK University may be considered for admission with advanced standing. In such cases, the admissions procedure shall be identical to other applicants; however, the duration of the programme may vary and shall be as specified at the time of entry.

Professional Doctorate (EdD)

Top apply for a Professional Doctorate, you should normally possess:

• a Masters degree at merit or distinction level in a relevant discipline from a UK University; or
• an equivalent qualification from outside the UK. Please note that equivalency of qualifications is judged by Liverpool Hope University, and all decisions are final.

You must also have at least 3 years' experience of leadership in a professional area relevant to the programme of study, and you must be able to demonstrate a high level of competence in written and spoken English.

If you don't meet the standard entry requirements, you may be considered for admission to Part One of the Professional Doctorate Programme only. This means you will be admitted for a Professional Masters degree (e.g. an MEd). This applies if you have:

• a first class or upper second class honours degree from a UK University; or
• an equivalent qualification from outside of the UK

Advanced Standing

Professional Doctorate applicants may, by following the University's Accreditation of Prior Learning procedures, request exemption, on the basis of prior certificated learning, from one or more Part Once courses. No applicant shall normally be exempted from the Research Proposal, and no candidate shall be normally exempted from more than 135 credits.