FAQs

The PhD in Public Policy is a new doctoral programme offered by the Bennett School of Public Policy (BSPP), launching in Michaelmas Term 2027. It is designed for students aiming to conduct original, interdisciplinary research at the forefront of public policy innovation.

This PhD is ideal for candidates with a strong academic background and a passion for applied research in public policy. It suits those seeking to bridge academic inquiry with real-world policy challenges, and who have completed a relevant Master’s degree such as the MPhil in Public Policy or Digital Policy.

Applicants must meet the University’s minimum academic requirement of a UK 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent. Most successful candidates will hold a First Class degree and a Master’s with distinction. English language proficiency must also be demonstrated if applicable. More information can be found at www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk

Applications are submitted via the University’s Applicant Portal, which opens annually in September for the following year of study. You’ll need to:

• Choose your course and check deadlines
• Prepare a research proposal
• Identify a supervisor
• Submit references and supporting documents
• Pay the application fee (waivers available for eligible applicants)

More information can be found at www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk

Progression from MPhil to PhD at Cambridge

Many students who undertake an MPhil at Cambridge choose to continue their academic journey by applying for a PhD. The MPhil provides a strong foundation in research skills, subject knowledge, and academic writing, which are essential for doctoral study.

Eligibility and application

Progression is not automatic, but MPhil students who perform well and demonstrate strong research potential are encouraged to apply for the PhD. Typically, students should:

• Achieve a high overall mark in their MPhil (often a distinction or high merit).
• Have a clear and viable research proposal.
• Secure support from a prospective supervisor.
• Apply through the standard PhD admissions process, often during the MPhil year.

Yes. The PhD will be advertised in the University’s Postgraduate Course Directory. Deadlines vary depending on funding eligibility, so early application is strongly advised.

The PhD is a research-only degree with no taught modules. Students will:

• Undertake supervised research
• Complete a probationary review in their first year
• Submit a thesis (up to 80,000 words) and defend it in a viva voce examination The course is offered full-time (3–4 years) and part-time (up to 7 years).

All postgraduate research students would be expected to attend the BSPP’s regular work-in-progress seminars, to help embed them in the research community and to provide the experience of seeing others present their research. At an appropriate stage they would present to the seminar.

Postgraduate research students would be able to take part in the methods and professional training the BSPP provides its Postdoctoral Research Assistants and Research Assistants, as appropriate.

More information on the format of the PhD submission can be found on the Cambridge student webpages.

Each student will have a Principal Supervisor, and may also have an adviser or co-supervisor. Supervision includes:

• Regular meetings
• Termly progress reports
• Access to BSPP seminars and training
• Students will also create a personalised training plan and have access to resources like CaRM and CAM-DTP.

No. There are no mandatory internships, fieldwork, or study abroad components. Students may apply to work away for research purposes, subject to approval.

More information can be found here

Tuition fees follow the University’s published rates. For 2026/27, the Arts Band applies to this PhD.

Use the Postgraduate Funding Search to explore opportunities.

Full-time students must reside in Cambridge for at least three terms and live within 10 miles of the city centre. Part-time students must attend regularly for supervision and training. Find out more on the Cambridge student webpages.