Course summary

Programme Overview Doctoral candidates pursue original research with the goal of making a significant contribution to knowledge in, and understanding of, their chosen field. As a postgraduate researcher you can become an integral part of our research community, working with leading academics whose research has gone on to impact business, policy, and society on an international scale. There is an emphasis on your own independent critical investigation, supervised by an experienced team of academics. You can benefit from an active research community in the School, and research groups with which to align your study. As a research student, you will have access to a structured programme of training supported by our Doctoral School. This aims to assist you in the development of the practical and critical skills which are necessary for this programme and are transferable to your career. There may be opportunities to participate in undergraduate teaching following relevant training. How You Study Normally, PhD students register for an MPhil, and within 12 months (24 months for part-time study) they are expected to transfer to the PhD programme. This transfer requires the production of a detailed research proposal, which the candidate will be expected to defend at a transfer viva. The formal transfer is subject to approval by the University's Research Committees Students are assigned a supervision team consisting of a Director of Studies (first supervisor) and usually one second supervisor. Students are expected to work independently on their research projects under the advice and direction of the supervision team. Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the vast majority of your time will be spent in independent study and research. You will have meetings with your academic supervisors, however the regularity of these will vary depending on your own individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and the stage of your programme.