A PhD programme, and other doctoral degree programmes, are typically comprised of three or four elements coursework element, research work, a thesis, dissertation or project portfolio and finally the defence, or Viva. The emphasis on the coursework element will vary by country, institution and programme, but coursework as a component should be expected to some extent or another. The taught coursework component is typically more involved in professionally oriented doctoral degrees. To find out more on each of the degree components just click on the links below.

Coursework

Research

Thesis / Dissertation