PhD in Regulatory Affairs

TOPRA has a joint agreement for PhD students with the University of Hertfordshire (UH) looking to pursue a doctorate in Regulatory Affairs. TOPRA works in collaboration with the University of Hertfordshire (UH) to support students undertaking a PhD in Regulatory Affairs. The programme is delivered, supervised, and awarded by UH. 

TOPRA offers an optional support package to complement the academic programme and support professional development. 

Duration of study for completing the PhD

Fulltime

Normally completed in 3–4 years (research plus thesis writing). 

Part-time already holding a MSc degree

Normally completed in up to 7 years. 
Early submission may be possible, subject to UH regulations and supervisor agreement. 

Entry requirements

Applicants must have:

  • a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree, or a MSc in an appropriate subject
  • a minimum of two years' experience working in regulatory affairs
  • (for applicants whose first language is not English) an IELTS score of 7 overall with no less than 6.5 in any individual component
  • a valid study visa issued by UKVI if they are full time, from outside the UK and are to spend any time studying at UH premises.

Admission decisions are made by the University of Hertfordshire. 

Supervision

  • Academic supervision is appointed and approved by UH in line with its PhD regulations 
  • Students normally have at least two supervisors 
  • TOPRA may assist in identifying an industrial or regulatory mentor, subject to UH approval 
  • With student consent, UH may share progress updates with TOPRA 

TOPRA Support Package (Optional)

Students opting into TOPRA support may access: 

  • Attendance at up to two TOPRA courses per academic year
  • 50% reduction in TOPRA membership fees, including Regulatory Rapporteur access
  • Support in identifying a regulatory or industrial mentor
  • General advice and administrative support
  • Dissemination of research materials via TOPRA’s network, where appropriate 

No additional fees are charged beyond the annual TOPRA support fee. 

Fees

Current fees can be found on the University of Hertfordshire's website

University tuition fees are payable directly to UH 

TOPRA support fee
12.5% of the applicable UH annual PhD tuition fee, plus VAT:

  • Payable annually in advance
  • Published on the TOPRA website
  • Non-refundable once the support period has begun 

Applications and registration

Students should in the first instance submit an application form and their CV to the TOPRA office.

  • Applications will be processed by UH through the standard application process for PhD applicants.
  • For the avoidance of doubt, UH’s decision on whether to admit an applicant onto a PhD program is final.
  • Once accepted onto the PhD program the student will have use of all UH facilities available to the student body, including library, computing and student support, and will be eligible to attend the UH graduation ceremony if they successfully complete the PhD.


To apply, or for more information, email us