Distance Learning PhD
Study for a PhD around your life
What is a Distance Learning PhD?
A Distance Learning PhD at the University of Portsmouth gives you the flexibility to pursue your research without relocating or regularly travelling to campus.
You'll work with an expert supervisory team, access online training and support, and become part of our postgraduate research community – while fitting your studies around your other commitments.
You'll achieve the same PhD qualification as an on-campus student and be assessed to the same academic standards.
At a glance
Distance learning is available across our research subject areas, subject to the suitability of your research project and supervisory arrangements.
Duration
3 years full-time / 6 years part-time
Start dates
October, February and April
Tuition fees
Fees follow the same structure as on-campus PhDs, but vary depending on your research subject area and fee status.
Why choose a distance learning PhD?
Flexibility
Fit your research around your career, family and other commitments.
Expert supervision
Work with world-leading researchers whose expertise aligns with your research interests.
Stay connected
Become part of Portsmouth's postgraduate research community, wherever you're based.
No need to relocate
Study remotely without the need to regularly travel to campus.
2nd
in the UK by postgraduate research students studying at a distance
Postgraduate Research Experience Survey 2026
2nd
overall by international students
Postgraduate Research Experience Survey 2026
3rd
in the sector by postgraduate research students with a disability
Postgraduate Research Experience Survey 2026
Top 4
university in the UK for postgraduate research student satisfaction
Postgraduate Research Experience Survey 2026
How does distance learning work?
Online supervision
You'll agree a regular schedule of online meetings with your supervisory team to discuss your research, review your progress and plan your next steps.
Online training and development
Access the University's Doctoral Development Programme, including online training, seminars and guidance to support your research, along with ways to connect with other postgraduate researchers.
Research milestones and assessment
You'll complete the same key milestones as campus-based PhD students, including Annual and Major Reviews, thesis submission and your viva voce examination. These milestones are managed remotely using electronic processes.
Support for distance learning PhD students
Studying remotely doesn't mean doing your PhD alone. You'll have opportunities to connect with fellow postgraduate researchers, share experiences and take part in the University's research community, wherever you're based.
You can join the Professional and Distance Learning Online Community (PaDLOC) and PGR Society to meet fellow researchers, connect and share experiences and take part in research activities.
You'll also have remote access to the University's extensive electronic library, IT support and academic and health and wellbeing services, available by email, phone, online chat or video call.
What do you need to study remotely?
To study for a distance learning PhD, you'll need reliable internet access, suitable equipment and access to the resources required for your research. You'll also need to agree with your supervisory team how you'll access any specialist resources or facilities
You must ensure your device has a web camera, microphone and speakers in order to fully participate in online meetings and other events.
It is recommended that you have a minimum internet speed of 5Mbps or more to allow for reasonable online experiences.
You have access to network storage space on the University's network and cloud and cloud storage.
AppsAnywhere is the University Apps store which allows students and staff to download software and apps for study and work, including Free Microsoft Office 365.
Entry requirements
To apply for a distance learning PhD, you'll need to meet the University's academic entry requirements and demonstrate that your research can be completed remotely.
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A good honours degree, usually a 2:1, or a relevant Master's qualification.
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A suitable research topic within an area Portsmouth can supervise.
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A strong research proposal, where required.
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Evidence that the research can be undertaken remotely and that the necessary resources are available.
How to apply
You can apply for a distance learning PhD with your own research proposal or for an advertised PhD project, provided the research can be completed remotely.
1. Explore research opportunities
Browse our research subject areas and available PhD projects to find a research topic that matches your interests.
Explore research subject areas
2. Find a PhD supervisor
If you have your own research idea, identify an academic whose expertise matches your interests and get in touch to discuss your proposal.
3. Submit your application
Apply through the relevant research subject area page. You'll need to submit a research proposal explaining how you'll undertake your research remotely and demonstrate that you have access to the equipment and resources you need.
If you're preparing your own research idea, read our guidance on writing a research proposal before applying.
A distance learning PhD leads to the same qualification as an on-campus PhD and is assessed to the same academic standards. The main difference is how and where you study.
As a distance learning student, you'll meet with your supervisory team online, access training and development remotely, and take part in the University's research community through online activities and events.
Both study options have the same academic expectations, research milestones and thesis requirements. Find out more about distance learning study.
If you wish to see if a Distance (online) Learning option is available, please discuss this with the potential supervisor before applying.
You won't usually need to visit campus, although any specific requirements will depend on your research project and arrangements agreed with your supervisory team. You are always welcome to visit us and use the on-campus facilities during your studies.
If this mode of study is available, it will be advertised on the subject area page. Please be advised that not all of our PhD’s can be completed through distance learning.
If you wish to see if a Distance (online) Learning option is available, please discuss this with the potential supervisor before applying.
Yes. Studying a course online means you study at a location that suits you, at a time that fits with your schedule and other commitments.
If this mode of study is available, it will be advertised on the subject area page. Please be advised that not all of our PhD’s can be completed on a part time basis.
Where next?
Find a PhD Supervisor
If you've already got your own research idea, start looking for a supervisor whose research interests match yours.
Explore our PhD projects
Look through our funded and self-funded PhD research projects and find out how to apply.
Funding your research degree
Find out how you can fund your postgraduate research project, with options including loans, bursaries, and scholarships.
