PhD blog

Studying a PhD can be fascinating, challenging, lonely, exciting and rewarding...sometimes all in one day. Our postgraduate researchers offer a glimpse into their research while providing valuable advice on future career options, balancing studies with work and social life, and the PhD process.

My journey to PhD study at Birmingham City University

Roo has studied at BCU all the way from her BA, MA, and now her PhD. After a five year break from university education,...

5 reasons to study a postgraduate research degree

Whether you have just completed an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, or are returning to academia from employment o...

Huafeng's experience as a research assistant

Huafeng Lu, postgraduate researcher at Birmingham City University, describes her experience as a research assistant wor...

Why Study a PhD at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire?

Want to take your music or performing arts research to the next level? Studying a PhD at the Royal Birmingham Conserv...

What is it like to be a research associate on the That’s Me! Project?

Final year PhD student at Birmingham City University, Abigail Shaw, reflects on her role as a research associate on the...

Newly refurbished PGR Hub opens at City South Campus

The recently refurbished Postgraduate Research (PGR) Hub at City South Campus was officially reopened for doctoral stu...

What is a research assistant?

The dynamic research culture and environment at Birmingham City University allows you to join up with leading experts a...

Make the most of your PGR Hubs

Our PGR Hubs are designed to be a base for you throughout your postgraduate degree. These spaces are designed to suppor...

Starting your PhD - a researcher's diary

Live Page options   When it comes to  starting your PhD , you will no doubt be going...

Top Tips from PhD Graduates

Taking the plunge to study a PhD is a huge achievement, and a step closer to getting your unique research out into the...

PGR profile of the month – Liam Miles

In this edition, we speak to doctoral researcher Liam Miles about his project exploring youth engagement in community ...

Achieving Your Doctorate While Employed in HE

Completing your doctorate is hard enough without the added pressures of working in higher education. 

The benefits of being a graduate research teaching assistant

A graduate research teaching assistant (GRTA) position offers postgraduate researchers the chance to grow their skills...

How Covid-19 radically altered my PhD study

Alan Taman discusses how the effects of Covid-19 have made a drastic difference to his PhD study.

The benefits of writing sessions

Sally Bailey, PhD student rep and researcher at Birmingham School of Art, discusses the benefits of regular wri...