Research degrees

We aim to ensure that research students are an integral part of the research culture and environment here at the Institute. Postgraduate students are supported in the management and development of their research study across the six substantive themes. A programme of activities is organised around each theme, and students are strongly encouraged to present work in progress at research seminars and conferences.

The Institute and the University recognises the importance of clear and systematic supervision arrangements; students are supported by a supervision team led by a first supervisor called the Director of Studies.

Research training is an integral aspect of students’ doctoral careers and students are expected to participate both in University organised training events that occur throughout the academic year and in Institute-based training organised by the Postgraduate tutor Professor Marlene Morrison.

Further information about research degree study can be found here

Opportunities for doctoral studies at Westminster Institute

The following Professors would welcome applications from prospective MPhil/PhD students in their areas of study:

Kathryn Ecclestone:
Professor Ecclestone's expertise and interest lie in the broad field of assessment policy and its effects on day-to-day teaching and assessment activities at all levels of the system. Specific interests include: the links between assessment and students' or pupils' autonomy and motivation; the implications of trying to assess dispositions, emotions and attitudes; assessment policy and practices in the vocational curriculum.

William Gibson:
Professor Gibson would welcome applications in the following areas: the religious history of Britan in the Post-Reformation period, historical theology of the 17th and 18th century, and the relationship between the Church and State between 1660 and 1900. He is also happy to supervise doctoral research on the history of universities in this period.

Marlene Morrison:
Professor Morrison is a sociologist of education who specialises in the study of education leadership and management for diversity, social justice, and inclusion. She also welcomes applications from applicants with interests in 14-19 education and in various aspects of higher professional learning. Specific methodological interests include ethnography in education and the contribution of learners' voices.