A Higher Doctorate is awarded in consideration of work which is of high distinction, constituting a substantial and original contribution to scholarship in the field and which has already been published or accepted for publication, or in the case of musical compositions/performances, of outstanding merit. Higher Doctorates are normally awarded only to those with distinguished work of considerable scholarly impact.

The University awards the following Higher Doctorate degrees:

Doctor of Divinity (DD)
Doctor of Laws (LLD)
Doctor of Letters (DLitt)
Doctor of Science (DSc)
Doctor of Science (Economics) (DSc(Econ))
Doctor of Science (Education) (DSc(Ed))
Doctor of Social Science (DSSc) 

Applicants for a Higher Doctorate must be either:

1. a graduate of the University; or
2. a member of staff of the University for at least four consecutive years.

It is expected that applicants will also have a minimum of ten years’ research experience at a postdoctoral level.

Applicants are required to establish a prima facie case that their work is of an appropriate standard, in accordance with the Postgraduate Admissions Policy.

The Admissions and Access Service processes paper applications for Higher Doctorates, and will also issue official documentation to international applicants for immigration and visa entry purposes, if appropriate.  Immigration Support Service can offer advice on visa and immigration issues.

The Study Regulations for Higher Doctorates provide regulations regarding:

1. Registration.
2. Period of Study (12 months part-time).
3. Temporary withdrawal.
4. The appointment of an Adviser.
5. Assessment/Award (including the format of the submission, the requirements for the Higher Doctorate, the procedure for submission, the appointment of examiners, and the examination process).