Cotutelle PhD Programmes

Europe

Africa

Australia

South East Asia

South America

*indicates that the cotutelle arrangement is currently for an individual candidate, whereas the majority of our cotutelle partnerships apply to the whole institution

The cotutelle programme is a fantastic way to gain wide-ranging research experience within different academic environments, through joint enrolment and research supervision.

Cotutelle research candidates have the benefit of being part of an exceptional international research team, receiving high-quality supervision from both universities. You will also be part of a prestigious network of global academic staff and research candidates, creating a vibrant international research community. The breadth of international engagement allows access to a significant programme of seminars and conferences across two continents. The combined offer of both institutions provides access to unique international dissemination opportunities and research networking, supporting future career development. Cotutelle candidates will also have access to additional funding opportunities, the widest possible research development opportunities, and the latest research equipment and technologies at both institutions, providing a truly world-class research experience.

Entry criteria can vary depending on the cotutelle programme and partner institution requirements. As a minimum, Coventry University's entry requirements are as follows:

• A minimum of a 2:1 first degree (second class honours upper division) in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 70% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 70% overall module average, or
• A Masters degree in a relevant subject area, with overall mark at minimum Merit level. In addition, the mark for the Masters dissertation (or equivalent) must be a minimum of 70%.
• The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a prescribed period of study.
• Language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).

Find out more information about Coventry University's PhD entry criteria.

All of the research projects are jointly agreed, and a lead institution identified for each project. The lead institution is clearly identified within the details of each of the advertised research projects. The applicant should apply to both institutions.

Applications are submitted to both institutions. Applicants must ensure they meet eligibility requirements. Selection involves academic staff from both institutions. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed by a panel including academic staff from each institution. Applicants will need to submit copies of certificates to both institutions in line with their respective requirements.

Find out more about how to apply to Coventry University.

Candidates will be fully funded for this programme, receiving a fee waiver and a stipend towards living costs (stipend rate for academic year 2023/2024 is currently £18,622).

Successful applicants will typically spend at least 12 months at each institution. Candidates will start at the home institution and the timing of the 12 month exchange will be tailored to best suit the project.

A team of supervisors from both institutions will jointly supervise the candidate throughout their programme. Regular meetings and communication will ensure that the team stays engaged with the candidate. Wherever the candidate is located, there will be supervisory and skills development support readily available.

Each institution has its own programme requirements for research candidates, including relevant development programmes, covering research methodology and academic writing. The research candidate will be given a tailored programme that meets the requirements of both institutions. Care has been taken to develop this programme so a piece of work or assessment will meet the requirements of both institutions, wherever possible.

Research candidates will submit their thesis to their host University and, in most cases, undergo a single defence through an agreed viva voce examination. Successful candidates will receive an award from each institution, based on their respective requirements and will be eligible to attend graduation at both universities.