The award of the PhD is based entirely on a major research thesis. However, to ensure that our graduates obtain as thorough preparation as possible for their future careers, the university has put in place a structured PhD programme. Students in the Faculty of Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy PhD programme are required to take 60 credits worth of taught modules over the duration of the programme, of which some are generic, and some are required by the relevant department.  Students with an MA in a cognate discipline usually need to take a minimum of 30 credits.