Postgraduate Programme
CIAPS PhD by Publication Programme
Duration:
Course Start Date:
Overview
The Commonwealth PhD by Publication programme is an innovative and flexible route for experienced professionals, academics, and researchers who have published substantial work in their field.
The programme allows candidates to obtain a doctoral degree by compiling a collection of their published work, which forms the basis of their thesis, supported by a critical analysis.
This programme is particularly suited to those whose experience or research has had a significant impact through their publications but may not have followed the traditional PhD route.
Who is it for?
The Commonwealth PhD by Publication programme is ideal for:
- Experienced professionals, researchers, or academics with a significant portfolio of published works.
- Individuals who have made considerable contributions to their field and wish to gain formal recognition through a PhD.
- Professionals seeking flexibility and acknowledgement of their existing body of work and experience instead of undertaking a traditionally taught PhD
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Have a portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, including journal articles, book chapters, monographs, or other scholarly contributions.
- Demonstrate that the collection of works forms a cohesive body of research around a central theme or contribution to knowledge.
- Show substantial experience in their research area, typically with several years of professional or academic work.
- Meet our institution’s general PhD admission requirements, which may include academic qualifications or equivalent professional experience.
Programme Structure
- Submission of Published Work: Candidates will compile a set of publications that represent significant contributions to their field. These works must be related by a common theme or research question (the number to be agreed with programme supervisors).
- Critical Commentary: Besides the published works, candidates must write a critical analysis (usually 10,000–20,000 words) that ties the publications together, outlines the overarching contributions, and discusses the research impact. This serves as the equivalent of a PhD thesis.
- Supervision: Candidates are assigned a supervisor and research peers who will guide them in compiling their publications and writing the critical commentary. Regular meetings ensure progress and adherence to academic standards.
- Lecture Candidates will deliver lectures during their programme in selected commonwealth countries and the USA.
Programme Features
Flexibility
The programme is designed for professionals with publications, allowing them to continue their professional work while pursuing the degree.
Recognition of Existing Work
Candidates gain formal academic recognition for research and contributions made through their publications.
Support
Candidates are assigned a supervisor and research peers to guide them in compiling their publications and writing critical commentary. Regular meetings ensure progress and adherence to academic standards.
Research Impact
The focus is on demonstrating the impact and contribution of your publications to your field.
Outcome
Awarded a full PhD degree based on the quality and impact of your published work.
Duration
Application Process
- Application Form: Candidates are required to fill out an application indicating their intention to pursue a Commonwealth PhD by publication programme.
- Personal Statement Candidates must submit a personal statement to introduce themselves and support their application.
- Submit a Portfolio: Potential candidates should submit a list of their publications for review.
- Proposal for Critical Analysis: A detailed plan outlining how the publications form a cohesive body of work and the proposed structure for the critical analysis.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview to discuss their research and its contributions.
Why the CIAPS PhD by Publication?
Recognition for Your Work
Gain formal international recognition for your scholarly contributions, experience, and research impact without the need to undertake a full-length PhD from scratch.
Flexibility
Continue your professional career while earning a doctorate.
Efficiency
Complete a PhD in a shorter time compared to traditional routes based on existing work.
Industry and Academic Integration
Ideal for professionals, academics, and researchers who have contributed to their field through peer-reviewed publications, patents, or research papers.
Personalised Supervision
Work closely with experienced academic supervisors to frame your publications into a cohesive thesis.
