Applying for an MPhil or PhD

To improve processing times and the tracking of applications, the University of Sheffield encourages all applicants to use the online postgraduate application system. This system is administered by the central Admissions Service.

Online application system

Postgraduate applications (PhD & MPhil)

Entry requirements

For MPhil:

The MPhil programme has two types of applicant and the requirements differ accordingly. Students who apply with the intention of completing a MPhil degree need:

  • At least a upper second class Honours degree, or a BA degree with a GPA of 3.25 in Biblical Studies, Religious Studies, or Theology
  • Preferably an MA or MDiv degree with a strong component in Biblical Studies

Students who apply with the intention of transferring to the PhD programme and completing a PhD degree need:

  • A MA or MDiv degree in Theology/Religious Studies with a strong component in Biblical Studies

For PhD:

Students seeking admission to the PhD degree programme in Biblical Studies need:

  • A MA or MDiv degree in Theology/Religious Studies with a strong component in Biblical Studies

It is standard practice for students wanting to do a PhD in the UK and here at Sheffield to apply initially for the MPhil programme. A student who has demonstrated satisfactory progess and the ability to complete a doctoral thesis may apply at the end of the the first year of the MPhil for transfer to the PhD . The previous research time is counted toward the three years in which the doctoral thesis is expected to be completed by a full-time student, or the six years available to a part-time student. Students who intend to complete the MPhil degree work steadily on their MPhil thesis, which must be completed, submitted, and defended by the end of the third year of full-time study or sixth year of part-time study.

Applying offline:

We recognise that in a small number of cases, reliable access to the internet can be difficult; should you require a paper copy of the application form you may request this by writing directly to:

The Admissions Service
The University of Sheffield
9 Northumberland Road
Sheffield
S10 2TT