Moray House School of Education and Sport

Postgraduate research degrees

Our research-based programmes - PhD and MSc by Research - allow you to make a significant contribution to knowledge in, and understanding of, your chosen field.

The University of Edinburgh was ranked first in Scotland for research power in Education and Sport (REF 2021, Times Higher Education) and we offer the largest concentration of researchers in education in a Scottish university, meaning you'll be supported by and collaborate with leaders in the field. Our research activities cover all aspects of education and learning - from pre-school to higher education and lifelong learning - and a wide range of aspects relating to sport, physical education and health sciences.

Postgraduate virtual open days

Join our online event to learn about Masters and PhD study at Moray House School of Education and Sport.

Date: 12-15 November

Location: Online

Learn more and register

Apply now  

Visiting research student

If you are a doctoral researcher and you would like to come to Moray House for a brief period of time, consider coming as a visiting research student.

Information about becoming a visiting research student

Incoming visiting research students

If your application to be a visiting research student at the Moray House School of Education and Sport has been approved, please get in touch with MHSES-Ethics@ed.ac.uk to discuss whether your project will need ethical review in our School, or whether your ethics approval from another institution is sufficient. If ethical review is required, we recommend allowing 6-8 weeks for this process when planning your visit.

Email MHSES-Ethics@ed.ac.uk 

PhD programme structure

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is expected to take three years full-time or six years part-time.

MScR programme structure

The MSc by Research aims to provide a thorough training in research in a particular area within either Education or Sport. It is a one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) degree.

Writing your PhD research proposal

Find guidance on how to write your PhD research proposal and a template form for you to use to submit your research proposal.

Writing your MScR research proposal

Find guidance on how to write your MScR research proposal and a template form for you to use to submit your research proposal.

Supervisors and topics

Looking for a supervisor? Learn more about our supervisors' areas of expertise and current availability.

Fees, scholarships and funding

We are keen to recruit the very best talent from all over the world. Find details of tuition fees and opportunities for scholarships and financial support for our Postgraduate Research students.

Our PGR students

Join a vibrant research community with over 150 research students. Hear some of our students and graduates speak about their experiences, and find out more about their research in this comprehensive list.

Contact the PGR team

Questions about your application or how to apply? Contact the Postgraduate Admissions team or the Director of Postgraduate Research who look forward to hearing from you.

Apply now: PhD and MSc by Research

How to apply to do a full-time or part-time PhD or MSc by Research at Moray House School of Education and Sport.