Research Degree Candidature

All stages and aspects of a student’s candidature are governed by the General Academic Regulations for Research Students. The Code of Practice for Research Degree Candidature and Supervision, in particular, details the expectations for creating appropriate standards and supportive conditions to enable every research student to have the best possible experience whilst undertaking their studies.

Throughout a student’s candidature, it is important that an appropriate research environment is provided, and this, together with the support and guidance provided by the student’s supervisory team, will underpin the various stages of their candidature.  The ultimate responsibility for the thesis lies with the student and it is therefore essential that they participate fully in planning the research project, considering advice and discussing the work with the supervisory team.

The requirements for the various stages of candidature are set out in the Regulations and the Code of Practice, all of which should be consulted when guidance is required. These include detailed information on research and transferable skills training, supervision, progression monitoring and reviews, the production and submission of the thesis, and the examination and award process.

Unforeseen circumstances that arise during a student’s candidature are dealt with through the Regulations Governing Special Considerations and Pause in Study for Postgraduate Research Students.

In cases where there have been periods of full-time and part-time candidature, the calculation of the maximum permitted period of candidature shall be proposed by the Doctoral College (Faculty) Team to the Faculty Director of the Graduate School for approval.  See also the Determining the maximum period of candidature when changing between full- and part-time study guidance.