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We offer an active research environment which specialises understanding human communication, language and cognition. You will have the opportunity to study within an interdisciplinary group of experimental psychologists, linguists, speech and language therapists and NHS-based clinicians. Our graduates have an excellent record of employment.
Key Information and Course Fees
The MPhil/PhD programme commences in late September/early October for all students. As a research student in the Division you will find yourself in a very active research environment and be part of a lively and friendly group of graduates. There is a wide range of technical assistance available when needed, as well as library and computing facilities. At UCL MPhil/PhD is not a taught programme per se. Students usually conduct research on a topic of their own choice that fits in with research topics offered by Language and Cognition staff. Please look at the staff research topics section below.
UCL regulations require that initial registration as a research student is for an MPhil degree. If satisfactory progress is demonstrated a student's registration is 'upgraded' to PhD. As part of the programme students take a range of courses designed to equip them for research. In particular, they take a selection of research methods courses appropriate for different backgrounds, designed to help them develop key research skills, such as the ability to evaluate critically the literature in an area or to perform advanced statistical analyses.
Structure
Full-time: 3 years and if the thesis is not submitted within this time then students may register as Completing Research Student for 1 additional year.
Part time: 5 years and if the thesis is not submitted within this time then students may register as Completing Research Student for 2 additional years.
The full-time PhD typically lasts for 3 years, including the time registered as an MPhil student, and if the thesis is not submitted within this time then students may register as Completing Research Students (CRS) for 1 additional year. The Division is assessed on how many PhD students submit their thesis on time so it is very important full-time students finish within 4 years.
You may also study your PhD part-time. Part-time students are normally required to be registered for 5 years, with 2 additional years in CRS if needed. Part-time study arrangements are to be agreed with the supervisor. Studying part-time for a PhD could be appropriate for a number of reasons. For example, if you are a qualified and experienced professional with a strong interest in research and you are keen to carry out a research project in your work environment, this could be right for you.
International Students
International students are reminded that all students conduct research on a topic of their own choice that fits in with research topics offered by Language and Cognition staff. Unlike applying for a PhD in some other countries, at UCL you need to know your topic area and have contacted a potential supervisor from Language and Cognition at the start of your application process. Please look at the staff research topics section below.
International applicants also need to satisfy the UCL English Language requirements to Level 2.