Considering applications for part-time research degree study

Part-time study is available for some research degree programmes. Academic requirements for part-time study are identical to those for full-time study.

Applicants should seek advice from the relevant Faculty/School in advance of making an application. 

1. Eligibility for part-time study

Academic requirements for part-time study are identical to those for full-time study and the same principles of admission apply to part-time entry.

Part-time study is not offered as an option for all research degree programmes and advice should be sought from the relevant Graduate School before making an application.

Where the research degree programme is offered on a part-time basis, applicants will be considered only when the Graduate School is satisfied that the applicant will have access to the necessary facilities for their research on a part-time basis.

2. Commitment to research activity

Part-time candidates are expected to work on their research project for periods of time equivalent to 20 hours per week. It is inevitable that their workload will be variable during the course of the year and this should be agreed with their supervisor(s). When approaching a specific deadline such as the submission of a transfer report or thesis additional hours of work will be necessary. 

This expectation should be drawn to the attention of the applicant at an early stage.

3. Supervision meetings

Part-time PGRs are entitled to receive a minimum of six supervision meetings per annum. Whilst the pattern and timing of meetings will vary according to the precise stage of the candidature and between subject areas it is expected that meetings will be held regularly throughout the standard period of study with gaps between meetings of no more than 12 weeks for part-time PGRs.

It is expected that meetings will normally be face-to-face. When PGRs are abroad or at other institutions in the UK formal supervisory contact may take place by other means (e.g. telephone, video conferencing). The standard period of study of a part-time PhD is five years with up to an additional two years' overtime period (if required).