Structured PhD Programme
Applications
Applications can be made at any time of the year, and the programme starts in March and September. If you are looking for funding to do a PhD (see Finance and fees) then it is best to apply between January and April, as the majority of research projects are awarded funding at that time and will be looking to hire new students for a start in September of the same year.
The first step in the application process is to contact a supervisor in the School. The supervisor is an academic member of staff in the School who acts as your guide and mentor.
| PhD Application - finding a supervisor | |
|---|---|
| 1 | Many PhD students in the School undertake their research under a specific research topic proposed by a supervisor. The best approach to finding such a position is to browse the Vacancies section of the SCSS website, where PhD Opportunities are posted. Also, in the Research areas section, some groups advertise research projects that their members are interested in supervising, often through the web pages of the research groups that are listed therein. They also advertise which of these projects come with funding towards fees and living expenses. |
| 2 | If you already have a specific research proposal for your PhD in mind, you should in the first instance look at the list of staff in the School to identify who might be interested in supervising you and contact them directly regarding your proposal. If you have a very strong academic record, it may be possible to secure funding through an individual scholarship scheme, depending on eligibility. See here for a list of some possible funding sources. If relevant, you are encouraged to discuss this with your prospective supervisor. |
If a member of staff agrees to support your application to the PhD programme, then the next step is to apply for the programme. Please note all applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
For details of requirements for international students, including English language requirements, please click here.
Click here for general details on how to apply for this postgraduate research program at Trinity College.
PhD proposal format
Regarding the format of the PhD proposal for the application to TCD, it should be prepared together with the prospective PhD supervisor in a format appropriate to their research area.
Accommodations
Limited accommodation is available for postgraduates on campus. If you have been accepted to do a Ph.D., you should apply as soon as possible for on-campus accommodation, as priority is given to research students. Further details may be found on the college accommodation website.
If you wish to find accommodation outside of Trinity, one of the best places to look is DAFT. This is a website where you can find properties to rent anywhere in Dublin. The best time to look for accommodation is August/September, as lease agreements will be coming to an end at this time. The TCD Students Union operate a drop-in service in the SU Front Office in House 6 in August and September. Students can also contact the Service at any time via email: accommodation@tcdsu.org, and can request in-person appointments year-round
International Students
The School's PhD students are a very diverse group that comes from all corners of the globe! We welcome interest in our programme from any well-qualified graduate. The University's International Office has a lot of information for foreign students who are thinking about studying at Trinity College, including details of visas and immigration, finding accommodation, what to do when you arrive, life in Ireland, etc.
Contact
Please contact the teaching unit or the PhD programme director if you have further queries regarding the process.