Adjustments to research projects are a common part of doctoral study in normal times, but the COVID-19 pandemic has, in many cases, created noteworthy changes to projects. Whilst accounts of alternative plans and methodology may be, if relevant, naturally included as part of the main text of the thesis, it may be necessary to alert examiners to the impact and disruptions COVID-19 caused to the project work.
Alongside their thesis for examination, students are now able to submit a statement outlining the disruptions they have encountered due to COVID-19, and the extent to which it was possible to adapt the work.
Examiners will be asked to consider this statement in relation to the scope and volume of the student’s work. The quality threshold for the award will remain unchanged so as not to compromise the integrity of the examination or award.
This policy covers all research degrees and comes in to force for submissions (or resubmissions) made on or after 8 February 2021.
Full details are available in the Research degree theses and the impact of Covid-19 restrictions policy.
