ReseaRch WITh PLYMOUTh UNIVeRsITY Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

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1 Research WITH PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

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3 GRADUATE SCHOOL The Graduate School is the administrative hub for all research degrees processes from enquiries to the award of degrees. The Graduate School plays an important role in the development of the postgraduate community within the University. It aims to provide a range of support for postgraduate education and students undertaking research degrees. DOCTORAL TRAINING CENTRES (DTCs) The Plymouth University Graduate School is organised into seven Doctoral Training Centres (DTCs) which provide subject-specific training and personal support for students in cognate disciplines reflecting the research expertise at Plymouth. The DTCs cover: Biosciences; Earth and Environmental Sciences; Computing and Mathematics; Marine Science and Engineering; Social Sciences; Arts and Humanities; and Medicine and Dentistry. 3

4 RESEARCHER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME Our Researcher Development Programme, run by the Graduate School, offers a wide and comprehensive range of courses designed to help our postgraduate research students and research staff develop and broaden their research and personal transferable skills. The development sessions are available free of charge to all research students and research staff at Plymouth University. We strongly encourage you to take up these opportunities to develop or refine a skill and network with colleagues. This programme is designed to support your research and beyond into your careers. The current programme can be viewed online at Enquiries and bookings can be made using the booking form on the portal or by ing researchskills@plymouth.ac.uk 4 Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

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7 THE POSTGRADUATE SOCIETY The Postgraduate Society is a vibrant and diverse group, providing a host of benefits to the postgraduate community at Plymouth University. Established in 2003, the society has developed and grown each year, and now has over 170 members. The society is run by our postgraduates for our postgraduates organising a number of events: conference series, which showcase the excellent work of research students at Plymouth University and give the students the opportunity to practice how to communicate their research to a wider audience social get-togethers such as the monthly lunchtime exchange, excursions and an annual dinner party. The Postgraduate Society also actively represents the postgraduate community through a number of important university forums, including: Graduate Sub Committee Research & Innovation Committee Postgraduate & Professional Open Evening Students Union Induction and student welcome. For further information visit 7

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9 OUR RESEARCH PROGRAMMES Plymouth University currently offers a wide range of postgraduate research degree programmes which can be studied both full time and part time: Research Masters (ResM) 10 Master of Philosophy (MPhil) 10 The Integrated PhD 10 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 11 Doctor of Medicine (MD) 11 Master of Surgery (MS) 11 Professional Doctorates 12 Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) Doctor of Education (EdD) Doctor of Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) 9

10 Research Masters (ResM) A Research Masters is a masters level degree which incorporates taught elements and an extended research phase, including research project and dissertation, governed by research degree regulations. The degree is generic and can apply in any discipline across the University. Duration: 1-2 years full time, 2-3 years part time Master of Philosophy (MPhil) For this award you will need to have demonstrated to examiners your ability to undertake an appropriate research programme or to produce a critical analysis of existing knowledge in a defined field. Much of the study undertaken at masters level will have been at, or informed by, the forefront of an academic or professional discipline. You will have shown originality in the application of knowledge, and you will understand how the boundaries of knowledge are advanced through research. You will be able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, and you will show originality in tackling and solving problems. Duration: 2-3 years full time or 3-4 years part time The Integrated PhD We currently offer three Integrated PhD programmes in Marine and Environmental Sciences, Geosciences and Psychology. The Integrated PhD programme combines extensive research training with the development of professional skills. This integrated approach offers a learning environment in which to broaden and deepen subject knowledge while providing the opportunity for inter-disciplinary study to extend expertise in new directions. Duration: 4-5 years full time or 5-7 years part time 10 Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

11 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) PhD research makes a contribution to the current knowledge of a subject and should be worthy of publication in whole or part. Doctorates are awarded for the creation and interpretation of knowledge, which extends the forefront of a discipline, usually through original research. Holders of doctorates will be able to conceptualise, design and implement projects for the generation of significant new knowledge and/or understanding. Holders of doctorates will have the qualities needed for employment requiring the ability to make informed judgements on complex issues in specialist fields, and innovation in tackling and solving problems. Duration: usually 3-4 years full time or 4-6 years part time DOCTOR OF MEDICINE (MD) Similar to the PhD Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a research degree available with the Peninsula School of Medicine and Dentistry for qualified doctors registered with the GMC and working in a clinical setting within the UK. The degree can be undertaken part time alongside clinical commitments. As well as undertaking research the degree offers a range of professional skills courses designed to support your degree and personal development. Duration: 2 years full time or 3 years part time MASTER OF SURGERY (MS) Similar to the PhD Master of Surgery (MS) is a research degree available with the Peninsula School of Medicine and Dentistry for qualified doctors registered with the GMC and working in a clinical setting within the UK. The degree can be undertaken part time alongside clinical commitments. As well as undertaking research the degree offers a range of professional skills courses designed to support your degree and personal development. Duration: 2 years full time or 3 years part time 11

12 Professional Doctorates A Professional Doctorate is an advanced programme of study and research which, whilst satisfying the University criteria for the award of doctorate, is designed to meet the specific needs of a professional group external to the University, and develop individuals to work within a professional context. The award titles of each Professional Doctorate will reflect the relevant profession. The award titles currently approved by the University are: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Doctor of Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) Doctor of Education (EdD) Doctor of Public Administration (DPA). 12 Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

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15 FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT SCHOOL RESEARCH AREA FEE BAND: AWARD High (H)/ Low (L) School of Biological Agriculture and Food H ResM Sciences Biological Sciences H ResM, MPhil, PhD Equitation Science H ResM School of Computing and Mathematics School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences School of Marine Science and Engineering Communication and Electronic Engineering H ResM, MPhil, PhD Computing H MPhil, PhD Mathematics and Statistics H ResM, MPhil, PhD Environmental Sciences H ResM, MPhil, PhD Geological Sciences H MPhil, PhD Human Geography H ResM, MPhil, PhD Physical Geography H ResM, MPhil, PhD Civil Engineering H MPhil, PhD Marine & Environmental Sciences H MPhil, PhD (Integrated) Marine Sciences H MPhil, PhD, ResM Mechanical Engineering H ResM, MPhil, PhD All students aiming for a PhD are initially registered for an MPhil/PhD and their route is confirmed months after they commence their studies. 15

16 FACULTY OF BUSINESS SCHOOL RESEARCH AREA FEE BAND: High (H)/ Low (L) Plymouth Graduate School of Management AWARD Business with Management L ResM, MPhil, PhD Doctor of Business Administration International Logistics, Supply Chain and Shipping Management See p25 for fees L Doctorate MPhil, PhD Marketing L MPhil, PhD School of Doctor of Public Administration See p25 Doctorate Government for fees Politics L MPhil, PhD Politics and International L ResM Relations Social Policy L MPhil, PhD Sociology L MPhil, PhD School of Law Criminology L MPhil, PhD Law L ResM, MPhil, PhD School of Tourism and Hospitality Tourism and Hospitality L MPhil, PhD, ResM 16 Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

17 FACULTY OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES SCHOOL RESEARCH AREA FEE BAND: AWARD High (H)/ Low (L) Plymouth Institute Education L MPhil, PhD of Education Doctor of Education H Doctorate School of Architecture, Design and Environment School of Art and Media School of Humanities and Performing Arts Architecture, Design and Environmental Building H MPhil, PhD Architecture H ResM Design Thinking H ResM Art and Media H MPhil, PhD Digital Art & Technology H ResM Film & Video H ResM Fine Art H ResM Photography H ResM Planetary Collegium H MPhil, PhD Art History L ResM Computer Music H ResM Dance L ResM English L ResM History L ResM Humanities L ResM, MPhil, PhD Performing Arts H MPhil, PhD Theatre and Performance L ResM 17

18 FACULTY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SCIENCE SCHOOL RESEARCH AREA FEE BAND: AWARD High (H)/ Low (L) School of Health Health Studies H MPhil, PhD Professions Social Science and Social Work L ResM School of Nursing and Midwifery Social Work L MPhil, PhD Applied Health Studies H ResM, MPhil, PhD School of Psychology Psychology H MPhil, PhD, ResM Psychology (Integrated) H MPhil, PhD Doctor of Clinical Psychology See p25 for fees Doctorate PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY PENINSULA SCHOOLS OF MEDICINE AND DENTISTRY School of Dentistry Dental Studies See p25 for fees School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine H MD Master of Surgery H MS School of Biomedical and Healthcare Sciences Medical Studies See p25 for fees ResM, MPhil, PhD ResM, MPhil, PhD Biomedical Sciences H ResM, MPhil, PhD 18 Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

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20 How to Apply Choose your programme Browse our online research directory to find out more about our areas of research expertise at If you already have some idea about which areas of research/programmes you have an interest in, you may contact our experts to discuss further about your project proposal ( Alternatively, you may contact a Doctoral Training Centre Administrator for any support and assistance (contact details at the back of this brochure). 20 Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

21 Before you apply 1. Make sure you have all your supporting documents. Documents required usually include: evidence of qualifications (certificates or transcripts) to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements evidence of English language ability (if English is not your first language) two references a research proposal visual evidence for art and design applicants check the department website for instructions and guidance, as requirements vary two passport photographs CV or resume, if required proof of sponsorship, if applicable. 2. Check the appropriate school website for any additional documents you need to provide. 3. Check the closing date, or funding deadline for research applications and apply as early as possible as our programmes are popular. Admissions policy More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admission policy for research degrees. The policy can be downloaded from our website at postgradresearch. You are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University. Entry requirements For entry to postgraduate research level, you will usually need: a masters degree by a UK university, or a degree of a non-uk institution deemed to be of equal standing to a UK masters degree or a first class or upper second-class honours bachelor degree awarded by a UK university or a degree of a non-uk institution deemed to be of equal standing or a professional qualification recognised as equivalent to a degree or other qualifications and experience that have demonstrated that the applicant can meet the challenges and demands of the programme plus two satisfactory written reports from academic referees; verbal or references may not be accepted. You may also be asked to provide an example of written work. Applicants with overseas qualifications can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through UK NARIC s website at

22 When to apply Applications can be made throughout the year. There are three entry dates 1 October, 1 January and 1 April. Where to find an application form Please visit postgraduate and click Apply Now to download the application form (available in both PDF and Word formats). Printed application forms are also available from the Graduate School, Level 3 Link building or Admissions, 3rd floor Nancy Astor building. Where to send your application documents On completion, please your application documents to graduateschool@plymouth.ac.uk or they can be posted to the address below: The Graduate School, Level 3, Link Building, Plymouth University, Plymouth PL4 8AA United Kingdom Response to your application You may be asked to provide additional information and you will normally be required to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference). The decision will then be sent to you by . English Language Requirement If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. The level of proficiency that is required can vary with the type of programme for which you are applying. The minimum English level for acceptable English proficiency for entry is IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. However, where the programme is linguistically demanding a higher score may be required. Previous qualifications/studies in English may also be proof of your English proficiency. For further advice on the appropriateness of overseas qualifications and proficiency in the use of English, please contact Doctoral Training Centre Administrators (contact details are at the back of this brochure). Two English courses are offered every year for postgraduate research students. Entry to these courses is dependent on a confirmed place at Plymouth University as a research student on an MPhil/PhD degree programme. The courses last for 27 weeks. For further information visit: englishlanguagecentre 22 Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

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25 POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH FEES 2014/2015 Full-time Home/Eu Overseas and Channel Islands High band 4,050 14,000 Low Band 4,050 11,300 Writing up (PhD/MPhil/ResM/EdD) Extension year (High band) 2,025 7,000 Extension year (Low band) 2,025 5,650 Part-time Home/Eu Overseas and Channel Islands High band 2,420 7,000 Low Band 2,420 5,650 Writing up (PhD/MPhil/ResM/EdD) Extension year (High band) 1,210 3,500 Extension year (Low band) 1,210 2,825 Exceptions Peninsula Schools of Medicine & Dentistry Home/EU Overseas Full-time MPhil/PhD/ResM in Dentistry 4,050 25,000 Part-time MPhil/PhD/ResM in Dentistry 2,420 12,500 Full-time MPhil/PhD/ResM in Medicine ,100 Part-time MPhil/PhD/ResM in Medicine 2,420 7,050 Professional Doctorates Home/Eu Overseas Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and 9,315 9,315 Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) years 1-2 Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and 3,850 3,850 Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) year 3 onwards Professional Doctorate in Education (EdD) 2,360 2,360 years 1-5 Doctor in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) Please view course details at for further information 25

26 HOW TO CONTACT US Head of Graduate School Professor Mick Fuller T: E: Head of Research Support and Development Dr John Martin T: E: Graduate School Manager Dr Cristina Rivas T: E: Researcher Development Programme Manager Sarah Kearns T: E: Research Administrator Ann Treeby T: E: Research Administrator Anna Johnsson T: E: Research Administrator Lucy Cheetham T: E: Assistant Administrator Rebecca Rose T: E: Researcher Development Programme Administrator Julia Crocker T: E: 26 Research Degree Programmes 2014/2015

27 DOCTORAL TRAINING CENTRE CONTACTS Arts and Humanities DTC Administrator Timothy Batchelor T: E: Bioscience DTC Administrator Catherine Johnson T: E: Computing and Mathematics DTC Administrator Carole Watson T: E: Earth and Environmental Science DTC Administrator Sharon Healy T: E: Marine Science and Engineering DTC Administrator Francesca Niedzielski T: E: Social Science DTC Administrator Cher Cressey T: E: DTC Administrator Sarah Carne T: E: DTC Administrator Catherine Johnson T: E: DTC Administrator Sharon Healy T: E: Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry Senior Administrator (Research Degrees) Bernice Wilmshurst T: E: E: plymouth.ac.uk DTC Administrator Catherine Johnson T: E: 27

28 DISCOVER MORE For further information on any of our research degree programmes visit or contact us via telephone on +44 (0) , via fax on +44 (0) or via at Research WITH PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY The University is committed to the promotion of equality and diversity. If you require this publication in an alternative format, please contact us on the number above. This publication went to print April Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. However, as our programmes and services are regularly reviewed and updated some details may change.