Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology at University of Cambridge

The PhD in Criminology is an advanced research degree awarded on the basis of a thesis and an oral examination (viva voce). The PhD's primary purpose is to prepare and present a substantial piece of independent and original academic research. Completion usually requires three to four years of full-time study and four to seven years of studying part-time, which includes a probationary period.

Faculty: School of the Humanities and Social Sciences  |  Department: Institute of Criminology  |  Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 4-7 years part-time  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Intake: January 2027, April 2027, October 2027, January 2028, April 2028  |  Location: Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

PhD candidates will also benefit from the advice and support of other academic members of staff who will be involved in the progression through the various stages of the PhD, from the registration assessment exercise at the end of the first year to the completion of the thesis. Frequent seminars are designed to develop research skills, technique, and thinking. Figures, tables, images, etc. should be counted as the equivalent of 200 words for each A4 page, or part of an A4 page, that they occupy.

Career pathways

Learning outcomes The Cambridge PhD is designed to strike the correct balance between structure and flexibility in order to prepare students for careers as professional researchers. It will help students develop the core skills needed by an arts, humanities or social sciences professional researcher of the future, which are valued by both academic and non-academic employers.

Official programme page