PhD in Translation Studies PhD / MA by Research

Tuition is £23,390 (full-time) / £11,695 (part-time).

Graduates of this programme move into academic research, university teaching, professional translation roles in industry, media or international organisations, and may also progress to post-doctoral study or specialised consultancy.

The PhD is normally three years full-time (six part-time) and progresses from a literature review and research training in the first year, through continued research and writing in the second year, to the submission of an up-to-80,000-word thesis and viva in the third year. The MA by Research is a one-year full-time (two-year part-time) programme culminating in a 40,000-word thesis, with an optional oral examination. Flexible start dates in September or January are encouraged and study can be undertaken on-campus or by distance learning.

The University of Birmingham, chartered in 1900, is a large, research-intensive redbrick university located in Edgbaston. It offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and has a reputation for multidisciplinary research, substantial campus investment and strong academic staffing. With more than 34,000 students, including a sizeable international community, Birmingham combines historic strengths with modern facilities and a global outlook.

Research and teaching span the arts, sciences, engineering, medicine and social sciences, supported by major investments in campus infrastructure and academic appointments. The university promotes interdisciplinary collaboration through flagship fellowships and research initiatives, and many courses provide opportunities for placements, industry engagement and overseas study on its international campuses. Student support services include extensive academic development, career services and wellbeing provision tailored to an international cohort.

Life at Birmingham blends a vibrant campus with access to the city's cultural and professional resources, enabling students to pursue extracurricular activities, volunteering and professional networking. The institution’s global partnerships and growing research profile open doors for international collaborations and career pathways. Prospective international applicants should carefully check entry requirements, funding and application deadlines and contact the university’s international office for guidance on visas, scholarships and arrival planning.