North Korean Studies, PhD/MA by Research at University of Lancashire

Programme overview

A research degree focused on North Korean society, economy, international relations and politics, including inter-Korean relations. It is the only degree programme with a sole focus on North Korea available outside the Korean peninsula. Study is full-time or part-time on the Preston Campus, delivered in person.

Faculty: School of Psychology and Humanities | Duration: 1 year (MA by Research, full-time); PhD duration not stated | Intake: September 2026, September 2027 | Location: Preston, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Supervised research drawing on anthropology, development studies and/or international relations. Topics include marketisation, defector migration, crypto theft, poverty, cultural influx and civil society. Opportunities to take part in international conferences, roundtables and policy talks.

Career pathways

Graduates are equipped to work in employment sectors dealing with international affairs.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Honours degree of 2:1 or above in a related field, or equivalent professional experience in the discipline. Korean is not required but can be beneficial; strong academic writing skills are desirable. New research applications should be received at least two months before the start date, and applicants should contact the research lead to discuss their topic and methodology before applying. International applicants: IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0, or equivalent (WAEC/WASSCE English grade C6).

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,510 a year (2026/27). Full-time Source

International applicants: GBP 19,250 a year (2026/27). Postgraduate research full-time international fee; research-degree band, not course-specific Source

Intake: September, January or March

Duration: 1 year (MA by Research, full-time); PhD duration not stated

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