PhD Studentships 2025 at The Open University (UK) – Faculty of Business and Law

PhD Studentships 2025 at The Open University’s Faculty of Business and Law (UK)

Are you ready to pursue doctoral research that creates real-world impact in business, law, and society? The Open University’s Faculty of Business and Law (FBL) is inviting applications for its 2025 PhD studentships—open to both on-campus and distance learning formats.

Application Deadline: 9 June 2025 (23:59 GMT)

Location: On-campus (Milton Keynes, UK) or Distance Learning
Stipend: Approx. £20,780 per year (for eligible students)
Reference: PhD Studentships in The Faculty of Business and Law

Program Options: On-Campus or Distance Learning

You can choose to study full-time on campus in Milton Keynes or opt for the new PhD by Distance Learning mode—ideal for those based elsewhere in the UK or overseas. Both options start on 1 February 2026.

Distance Learning applicants from most countries are welcome, but a few geographical restrictions apply. Check the application form for the current list of ineligible countries.

Choose from Themed Research Projects or Propose Your Own

You may apply based on the following funded projects, or submit your own research proposal in areas related to business, law, or management (subject to supervisory capacity):

DAF01: Inclusion strategies in Higher Education
DAF02: IFRS and cost of capital
DAF03: Climate disclosures and capital markets
DAF04: Accountability in Islamic financial institutions
DAF05: ESG investing behaviour
DPO01: Policies on surplus food redistribution
DPO02: Identities in cultural and creative industries
DPO03: Women farmers adapting to climate change in MENA
DSM01: Women in the gaming industry
Pol01: Women’s health and careers in emergency services
Law01: Freedom of religion in international and constitutional law

What the Studentship Covers

UK-based students (on-campus or distance learning): Full tuition fee coverage + annual stipend (~£20,780) for 3 years
International distance learners: Tuition fees only (apply for the 'fee bursary' option)
Support grant: Research training and conference expenses included
Note: Part-time and self-funded options are available but are not eligible for studentships

Life as a PhD Student at The Open University

On-campus full-time students should live within commuting distance of Milton Keynes, attend regular supervisory meetings, and participate in research activities at least twice a week.

Distance Learning students will engage with their supervisors and attend research events virtually. In-person attendance is encouraged during registration, but remote alternatives are available for those with accessibility or caregiving concerns.

Eligibility Criteria

A 2:1 honours degree (UK or equivalent) or a master’s degree with a research component
A research proposal (1,000–2,000 words) that aligns with the topic or area of study
IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0), valid within two years—mandatory for all international applicants outside exempt countries

Application Process

Submit the following documents by 9 June 2025, 23:59 GMT to fbl-phd@open.ac.uk:

Completed application form (choose either on-campus or distance learning form)
Research proposal
Cover letter
Academic transcripts and degree certificates (plus certified English translations if needed)
IELTS Academic certificate (if applicable)

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Interview & Selection

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews in July and August 2025. Expect to present your proposal in a 10-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session.

Upcoming Webinar: “Preparing Your PhD Application”

Join the online workshop on 23 May 2025, from 15:00 to 16:30 (GMT) to learn more about crafting a strong PhD application and aligning your proposal with faculty expertise. Register via Eventbrite to attend.

Let your research journey begin at The Open University—where academic excellence meets global relevance.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Scholarship at Uniplus Global to apply