University of Warwick - MSc + PhD in Molecular Analytical Science (MAS CDT)

What you get

This was a fully funded four-year path to a PhD at the University of Warwick. You spent one year on an MSc in Molecular Analytical Science, then three years on the doctorate. UK students got full tuition fees, a budget for lab materials and a tax-free living stipend (a monthly living allowance). For the 2014/15 intake that stipend was at least about EUR 16,000 per year (GBP 13,700). You trained across chemistry, physics, statistics, maths, biology, engineering and computing, and worked with industry partners such as AstraZeneca.

Important: The MAS CDT stopped taking new applications in 2019. Its successor is the Warwick Analytical Science CDT (AS CDT). It runs the same 1+3 MSc-plus-PhD route and pays a UK-rate stipend of at least about EUR 20,000 per year (GBP 17,668 for 2022/23). The details below describe the current AS CDT.

Who can apply

• Degree: You have, or expect to gain, a first-class or upper second-class (2:1) bachelor's degree, or an equivalent international qualification.
• Field of study: Your degree is in a science subject such as chemistry, physics, engineering, mathematics, statistics, computer science, life sciences or pharmacy.
• Maths: A-level Maths at grade B or above (or equivalent) helps your application but is not required.
• Where you study: The PhD is at the University of Warwick in the UK.
• Nationality for funding: The full funding covers only the UK Home fee rate. International applicants can apply but do not qualify for the funded place.
• Language: If you are not from the UK, you must meet the English language requirements.

How to apply

You apply through the AS CDT online form and name up to three projects that interest you. Your application is anonymised for the first screening. Applications run on a rolling basis, with deadlines on 31 January, 31 March, 31 May, 15 July, 15 August and 1 September each year. If shortlisted, you have a 30-minute online interview, then a final in-person interview at Warwick. Apply early, as popular projects fill before the deadline.

How realistic are your chances?

The original MAS CDT no longer exists, so apply to the AS CDT successor instead. Places are limited and tied to specific research projects, so competition is real, and the funded places go to UK-rate applicants only. If you hold a strong 2:1 or first in a relevant science subject and apply early for a project that fits your background, your prospects are solid.