Psychology PhD
University of Sunderland

Student rating

(4.3)

Curious about studying Psychology PhDat University of Sunderland? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.

Different course options

DATA SOURCE:

UNISTATS, UCAS

Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Location

City Campus

Study mode

Part Time

Start date

Oct 2026

Duration

6 Year

Course info

OverviewA PhD is “probably the most internationally transferable qualification” according to the Higher Education Policy Institute.You will critically investigate your chosen topic in great depth, with support, guidance and encouragement from our supervisory team. Crucially, your investigation should result in the creation and interpretation of knowledge which extends the forefront of your discipline. It should make an original contribution to knowledge.Increasingly, a doctorate is an essential requirement for recruitment and promotion in university teaching roles. More broadly, a PhD is a life-changing programme that trains you to think at a deep level while you become an expert on a particular topic. It is quite possible that you will end up knowing more about that topic than almost anyone else in the country.Why us?A PhD is highly advisable if you are considering a career as an academicWe're ranked 2nd in the UK for students’ overall satisfaction with their research degree programme according to the Postgraduate Research Experience Survey 2018You have the option to study this programme at our Sunderland campus or possibly via distance learning

What students say

Ellie Wilson

University of Sunderland

Psychology PhD

The University of Sunderland is a friendly, and affordable place to study while being in the city. Facilities are modern, with good labs, libraries, and sports facilities. Student support is particularly strong, whether that is wellbeing, academic help, or general guidance. While student living is quite lively, it is not overwhelming, with things like societies and group student activities, as well as plenty of local activities Overall, it is a fairly supportive university in a welcoming city, mixing affordability and liveliness.

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Matilda

University of Sunderland

Psychology PhD

The school is really nice and I love the library and the access to so many articles and the student body is also really good and takes into consideration a lot of international students

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Olivia Callaghan

University of Sunderland

Psychology PhD

When the library was open it was a great place to get in the zone and study, the SU is also a great place to be able to study as well in between lectures, its close to all the buildings, the study rooms in murray health building are often locked even when people arent using them, they could be open as there arent many study rooms available compared to the amount of students there are on campus, obviously thats always going to be the case, but the more the better

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Alyssa Luther

University of Sunderland

Psychology PhD

The campus I'm on is around the city centre, so between lectures I can go to Greggs or primark. Other than that, the teaching staff and student support team are very helpful and supportive, plus the campus itself (both st Peters city campus) have a very nice feel to them. I do have to say though, the food served in the cafe areas are quite pricey, but they do some good paninis. Overall, I highly recommend attending this uni

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Zoe Taylor

University of Sunderland

Psychology PhD

I’ve enjoyed making new friends and building on new skills and gaining more knowledge about a subject that I’m passionate about and love. I’ve not found something I don’t like so far

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Tuition fees

Student living

per year

Students from

DATA SOURCE:

UCAS / IDP Connect

Latest reviews

How University rating students rated:

University rating

Overall rating

4.3

5 stars

48%

4 stars

37%

3 stars

10%

2 stars

1 star

Latest Forensic Psychology reviews

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Jorja Roberts

University of Sunderland

Reviewed: 21/11/23

Psychology PhD

Honestly the university as a whole is amazing. The support given from both the staff and the support sector is incredible and you don’t feel like you have to go through it alone

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Tolu Owojori

University of Sunderland

Reviewed: 06/12/24

Psychology PhD

The University of Sunderland is a great place to study due to its supportive environment, inclusive community, modern facilities, and experienced staff. It offers excellent academic and pastoral support for foundation year students, ensuring a smooth transition into higher education. The affordable cost of living and strong career support make it especially appealing. However, it could improve by offering more tailored resources for foundation year students, enhancing timetabling and feedback processes, and fostering better social integration between foundation and higher-year students. Improvements to digital platforms could also enhance the overall student experience.

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Zoe Taylor

University of Sunderland

Reviewed: 03/11/25

Psychology PhD

I’ve enjoyed making new friends and building on new skills and gaining more knowledge about a subject that I’m passionate about and love. I’ve not found something I don’t like so far

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Maia

University of Sunderland

Reviewed: 06/12/24

Psychology PhD

It’s a very welcoming environment and there are a variety of facilities which can be used to make studying a lot more easier. For instance, we are able to book out quiet rooms for studying rather than sit in areas where others a talking. Knowing this is an option is very comforting as I know I can complete my work in an environment to my liking.

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Amina

University of Sunderland

Reviewed: 21/11/23

Psychology PhD

The environment is friendly and cosy, teachers are friendly and helpful. Campus is easy to get around. I would say the worst aspect is the cost of the food, I thought since I’m a student the food at the cafeteria would be discounted and cheap, but no. It’s nearly 6 pound for a sandwich and drink like what? Maybe lower the prices and give a discount

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Kath Luke

University of Sunderland

Reviewed: 16/11/23

Psychology PhD

I love the atmosphere of the uni it has really positive vibes . The staff are lovely and really supportive. The food is quite expensive for what you get and same for the printing. I had most of my student loan took off me by universal credit so I am struggling money wise to make ends meet. Overall I feel settled safe and at home here and would definitely recommend this university to others.

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