Candidates should normally have or be expecting an upper second or first class degree in any related discipline. We also expect a Master's degree or equivalent with the dissertation component marked at Distinction level (70+).

However, we also welcome applications from mature students with substantial research experience. Candidates can be considered for a PhD by Prior Publication.

We also expect:
A mature and independent attitude to research
Adherence to the values of the Student Contract
Commitment to taking part in a community of scholars
An open attitude to the development of your own research
Generous and constructive criticism of the work of others presented in seminars
An understanding of the National Qualifications Frameworks
Willingness to present working papers in School of Communication & Creativity Seminars and national and international conferences.
English requirements
Under City regulations research theses must be submitted in English. Candidates whose first language is not English will be required to show evidence of a high standard of written and spoken fluency.

Examples of this include a degree from a British university or a minimum overall score of 7.5 and no less than 7.0 in any of the subtests (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) administered by the British Council.