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Keele University provides three distinct postgraduate research programs within a close-knit, collaborative setting that fosters strong connections between students and faculty. Our research-focused community ensures easy access to staff, excellent facilities, and a peaceful rural campus ideal for academic work. Faculty members lead pioneering research across compelling areas of modern philosophy. The Philosophy PhD program spans three years full-time or six years part-time, with flexible continuation options for additional time needed. As the pinnacle academic qualification, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) grants the title of Dr. and involves producing an original 70-80,000 word thesis on an approved topic. Applicants typically hold a master's degree (MA, MRes, or MPhil). Students work closely with assigned supervisors, meeting as needed, culminating in a viva voce examination with internal and external examiners. SPIRE's interdisciplinary structure allows PhD candidates to blend philosophical research with politics or international relations topics (see the Politics and International Relations PhD page for details). Note: International students on visas must typically enroll full-time unless pursuing distance learning.