Study with us

Studeer bij ons

BU has 6 distinct faculties and more than 36 specialized schools and academic units across our campuses in Curaçao, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Paris, and other global locations

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Life at BU

Leven bij BU

At BU, life goes beyond the classroom, it’s vibrant, diverse, and filled with opportunities to explore your passions across cultures and campuses.

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Collaborate

Mahi Tahi

Partner through global alliances, academic networks, or local initiatives to shape education, research, and community impact.

Collaborate with us

About BU

Over ons

BU is where global education meets real-world opportunity. With campuses in Curaçao, Paris, and worldwide, we prepare learners to lead in a fast-changing world.

Contant Us
Postgraduate Research

PhD & Research Degrees

Pursue original research that advances knowledge and transforms your career

Join a global community of scholars at Bloomington University. Our research degrees offer flexible pathways—on campus, at authorized research facilities, through WILP, or at Centers of Excellence worldwide. Eligible students may access research grants to support their scholarly journey.

Degrees
MRes • MPhil • PhD • DProf
Duration
1–5 Years
Study Mode
Full-time • Part-time

Original Research

Contribute new knowledge to your field through rigorous, independent inquiry.

Expert Supervision

Work closely with leading academics who guide your scholarly development.

Flexible Research Locations

Conduct research on campus, at CoEs, authorized facilities, or through WILP programs.

200+
Active Research Students
Global Research Environment

Our Research Ecosystem

Research at Bloomington happens across international campuses, field sites, partner institutes, and Centers of Excellence. You will join active research groups addressing challenges in science, society, technology, health, business, education, the arts, environment, and beyond.

Global Network

Centers of Excellence (CoE)

Our Centers of Excellence are specialized research hubs located across the globe. Each CoE focuses on specific disciplines and provides state-of-the-art facilities, expert supervision, and collaborative opportunities with industry partners.

Advanced Labs Industry Partnerships Expert Mentorship Global Collaboration
15+
CoE Locations
50+
Research Partners
500+
Active Researchers
25+
Countries
Cross-Faculty

Interdisciplinary Research Themes

Complex global problems require interdisciplinary approaches. Students may work across faculties and collaborate internationally on themes that transcend traditional boundaries.

"The most significant breakthroughs emerge at the intersection of disciplines."

AI & Digital Society Technology & Innovation Health & Life Sciences Climate & Sustainability
Worldwide Reach

Global Research Network

Connect with researchers and institutions across the globe through our extensive academic partnerships. Our network spans multiple continents, enabling collaborative research, exchange programs, and access to diverse perspectives and resources.

International Collaborations Exchange Programs Joint Research Initiatives
25+
Countries
80+
Partner Universities
150+
Research Agreements
1000+
Alumni Worldwide
Industry Integration

WILP & Authorized Facilities

Work Integrated Learning Programs (WILP) allow you to conduct research while maintaining your professional career. Partner with authorized teaching and research facilities that meet our rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Scheduling Industry Relevance Applied Research
On-Campus

Campus Research Opportunities

Immerse yourself in our vibrant campus research community. Access world-class libraries, laboratories, and collaborate with fellow researchers and faculty members in person.

Full Immersion Research Community Grant Eligibility

Find Your Ideal Research Environment

Whether you prefer campus immersion, industry collaboration, or global partnerships—we'll help you find the perfect setting for your research ambitions.

Research Degrees

Research Degree Pathways

Bloomington's research degrees focus on original investigation and contribution to knowledge. They are aligned with EQF Levels 7–8 and global doctoral standards, preparing you for careers in academia, industry research, and specialist professional roles.

EQF Level 7 & 8 Aligned
Global Doctoral Standards
Original Contribution to Knowledge
EQF Level 7
MRes
Master of Research

Develop advanced research skills and methodology. Ideal preparation for doctoral study or research-intensive careers.

1–2 Years
180 ECTS Credits
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EQF Level 7
MPhil
Master of Philosophy

Conduct substantial independent research culminating in a thesis. A stepping stone to PhD or standalone qualification.

2–3 Years
240 ECTS Credits
Learn More
Most Popular EQF Level 8
PhD
Doctor of Philosophy

The pinnacle of academic achievement. Make an original contribution to knowledge through rigorous, independent research.

3–5 Years
360 ECTS Credits
Learn More
EQF Level 8
DProf
Professional Doctorate

Apply doctoral-level research to professional practice. Ideal for senior practitioners seeking to advance their field.

3–5 Years
360 ECTS Credits
Learn More

All research degrees can be pursued full-time or part-time, on campus or through flexible arrangements.

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HDR Milestones

The Researcher Journey

Every research degree progresses through clear scholarly milestones aligned with international Higher Degree by Research (HDR) standards.

1
Preparation

Research & Application

  • Identify research area & supervisor fit
  • Research proposal development
  • Supervisor matching
  • Ethics approval & review
2
Commencement

Induction & Training

  • Candidature induction & orientation
  • Methodology design training
  • Confirmation of candidature
  • Research plan finalization
3
Active Research

Investigation & Writing

  • Data collection & analysis
  • Regular supervision meetings
  • Conference presentations
  • Publication opportunities
4
Completion

Examination & Beyond

  • Thesis writing & submission
  • Viva voce examination
  • Final revisions
  • Graduation & celebration
Funding Support

Research Grants & Funding

Bloomington University is committed to supporting exceptional researchers. Eligible students conducting research on campus may access various grants and funding opportunities to support their scholarly journey.

Merit Scholarship

Awarded to outstanding candidates with exceptional academic records and promising research proposals.

Up to 50% Tuition

Research Excellence Fund

Supports research expenses including equipment, fieldwork, conference attendance, and publication costs.

Up to $5,000/year

Teaching Assistantship

Gain teaching experience while receiving a stipend. Available for on-campus doctoral students.

Monthly Stipend

Eligibility criteria apply. Contact our research office for detailed information on funding opportunities.

Explore Funding Options
Your Support Network

Supervision & Support

Every research student receives dedicated support from experienced supervisors and access to comprehensive resources throughout their journey.

Primary Supervisor

Work closely with an expert in your field who provides guidance, feedback, and mentorship throughout your research journey.

Co-Supervision

Benefit from additional expertise through co-supervisors who bring complementary perspectives to your research.

Research Training

Access workshops, seminars, and courses on research methods, academic writing, and professional development.

Library & Resources

Access extensive digital libraries, databases, journals, and research tools to support your scholarly work.

Research Community

Connect with fellow researchers through seminars, reading groups, and collaborative projects across disciplines.

Career Development

Prepare for academic or industry careers with guidance on publishing, networking, and professional opportunities.

120+
Expert Supervisors
95%
Completion Rate
50+
Research Workshops/Year
24/7
Online Resources Access

Ready to Begin Your Research Journey?

Connect with our research admissions team to discuss your interests, explore supervision options, and find the perfect pathway for your academic goals.

Connect with us to Explore programs and personalized guidance.

Our admissions team is here to help you find the right program and start your journey with confidence.