Triangle

Research overview

Our research has a truly international outlook and wide-ranging impacts on society, the economy, health and welfare, culture, public policy and the environment.

The School of Health Sciences commands a reputation for world-leading research and education, 96% of the School’s research was ranked as internationally excellent or world leading (REF 2021), with Times Higher Education ranking us joint 4th for research quality. The QS World University Rankings (2022) ranked the SoHS 25th in the world for nursing and 4th in the UK.

A PhD in Midwifery allows you to extend your body of knowledge in the field of maternal health and well-being as you become a successful independent researcher within this field of study. 

Our research is carried out in collaboration with clinical partners, global research centres and healthcare organisations. We have a dedicated Centre for Evidence Based Healthcare that works with our research groups and healthcare partners to provide methodological input, evidence synthesis and training.

We welcome all applications that strengthen the work of our research groups. Prior to submitting an application, please identify and contact a relevant supervisor. Full details of our PGR supervisors can be found here: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/healthsciences/postgraduate/research-supervisors.aspx

Applications are welcomed from enthusiastic, talented and highly motivated individuals with a passion for research and for using research to make a difference. We are happy to support applications for competitive peer reviewed PhD fellowships e.g. NIHR, Wellcome Trust, Charitably funded etc.

For informal enquiries please contact the Director of Postgraduate Research, Dr Claire Diver

Course content

Our Midwifery PhD will adopt an individual training needs analysis approach to support access to specialist training in the theory and practical techniques you'll need to develop, conduct and disseminate research. You will develop and conduct an original and independent research project, with supervision and support from our research experts. Skills you'll learn include:

  • Knowledge and research skills
  • Personal effectiveness skills
  • Research governance skills
  • Knowledge exchange skills

There is no compulsory requirement to undertake modules of study. However, your supervsiory team will work with you to identify any that are relevant to you. These included advanced specialist and foundation research methods modules that include but are not restricted to:

https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/esrc-dtc/training/at-module-details.aspx

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

QualificationPhD
Degree

2:1 (or international equivalent) at undergraduate level and a minimum of a merit (or international equivalent) at masters level

Applying

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

How to apply

Fees

QualificationPhD
Home / UK£5,350
International£23,000

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Additional costs

All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice.

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your personal budget, including any running costs for your project such as printing or equipment, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses. You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies or more specific titles.

The school contributes to some costs relating to conference/course attendance and some research consumables. The full cost of your course will vary depending on the nature of your research project, for example there may be additional costs for projects which require specific equipment or travel and you’ll need to have sourced funds for this.

Funding

For UK students, there are numerous funding opportunities from:

Many of our international students seek funding support from governmental agencies or academic institutions. Find out more about our international scholarships.

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

Postgraduate funding

Support

The School of Health Sciences offers an extensive research seminar programme open to staff and students. In addition, we run regular doctoral events that are accessible to part-time students or those studying or working off campus.

The University and school also provide a wide range of funding opportunities for research networking activities, conference attendance and internships.

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Graduate centres

Our graduate centres are dedicated community spaces on campus for postgraduates.

Each space has areas for:

  • studying
  • socialising
  • computer work
  • seminars
  • kitchen facilities

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services, including:

  • academic and disability support
  • childcare services
  • counselling service
  • faith support
  • financial support
  • mental health and wellbeing support
  • visa and immigration advice
  • welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer.

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

  • international students
  • black and minority ethnic students
  • students who identify as women
  • students with disabilities
  • LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

Play video

Where you will learn

University Park Campus

University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.

Most schools and departments are based here. You will have access to libraries, shops, cafes, the Students’ Union, sports village and a health centre.

You can walk or cycle around campus. Free hopper buses connect you to our other campuses. Nottingham city centre is 15 minutes away by public bus or tram.

Careers

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route. Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

PhD student profile image of Josephine NwaAmaka Bardi
I chose to study at the University of Nottingham because I wanted to be a part of a top 100 university that is internationally recognised university for world research, and its ethos to consistently deliver the best quality of learning and teaching experience. I've received unrelenting support from my supervisors, unlimited learning resources such as the library service, short courses and the opportunity to attend and present my research at 21 conferences within and outside the UK.
Josephine NwaAmaka Bardi, Health Sciences PhD student

Related courses

Research Excellence Framework

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

  • 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
  • 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
  • 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 20 November 2024. Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.