Research degrees

Make your mark with a research degree from UWS

Postgraduate Research degrees from University of the West of Scotland enable you to work at the cutting-edge of your industry or sector and contribute to the advancement of knowledge. 

To be a successful research student you must be passionate about your subject area, with enthusiasm for research and analysis, and the motivation to manage a personal learning programme. You will have already demonstrated research aptitude in undergraduate or masters-level studies. 

As a career-focused university we work with international businesses, regional enterprises, local and international education partners to ensure that UWS research drives innovation and supports the future needs of society, industry and government. This focus increases your employability and career prospects, whether you seek a career in an academic or commercial environment.

We offer research study opportunities (MRes, MPhil, PhD, DBA and DProf) across all of our subject areas and Academic Schools.

Cutting-Edge Research

With cutting-edge facilities, specialist knowledge and world-leading and internationally excellent expertise, UWS aims to develop research outputs that have a tangible impact on society across the globe.

Click on the link below to watch a video that highlights just some of the University’s recent research successes.

UWS Research Success Snapshot

Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)

In the most recent round of research assessment in the UK - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, 90 percent of research at University of the West of Scotland was classed as world-leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally.

The University also increased its position for research intensity, now ranking within the top 90 universities in the UK.

UWS’s REF results include an outstanding performance for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism, ranking within the top three Scottish universities in this area, with 71 percent of research recognised as world-leading or internationally excellent.

The University also saw 100 percent of its impact in Physics recognised as internationally excellent.

The results reinforce the position that UWS makes a significant contribution to economic, social, cultural, health and public policy, both internationally and within our local communities.