7.4 SECOND SUPERVISOR(S) AND ADVISERS COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIP INSTITUTIONS DESIGNING, PLANNING AND MANAGING THE RESEARCH

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2 CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION THE PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK AND OTHER DOCUMENTS RESEARCH DEGREES REGULATIONS CODE OF PRACTICE FOR RESEARCH DEGREES UWTSD RESEARCH DEGREES COMMITTEE AND UNIVERSITY OF WALES DAAB UWTSD RESEARCH DEGREES COMMITTEE (RDC) STUDENT REPRESENTATION AND FEEDBACK RESEARCH PROGRAMMES OFFERED BY UNIVERSITY OF WALES TRINITY SAINT DAVID MRES DEGREES PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATES THE UNIVERSITY S LANGUAGE POLICY THE UNIVERSITY FACULTIES AND SCHOOLS PROFESSIONAL UNITS LEARNING RESOURCES STUDENT SERVICES INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & SYSTEMS STUDENT UNION VIRTUAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT (VLE) AND MYTSD PORTAL INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS REQUIRED PERIODS OF STUDY MPHIL / PHD BY RESEARCH PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATES* MRES PHD BY PUBLISHED WORKS RE-ENROLMENT RE-ENROLMENT PROCEDURES STUDENT NUMBERS INDUCTION PROGRAMME NON-ACCREDITED GENERIC SKILLS MODULE FOR MPHIL AND PHD BY RESEARCH STUDENTS GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH STUDENTS RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN THE RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT FACILITIES WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR SUPERVISION MAINTAINING REGULAR CONTACT COMPLETING ANNUAL MONITORING REPORTS SATISFACTORY PROGRESS (MPHIL / PHD BY RESEARCH) SATISFACTORY PROGRESS (MRES AND PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE PROGRAMMES OF STUDY) CAUSE FOR CONCERN AND UNSATISFACTORY PROGRESS A CAUSE FOR CONCERN OR UNSATISFACTORY REPORT FORMAL WARNING CONCERNS ABOUT THE RELATIONSHIP WITH THE DIRECTOR OF STUDIES OR OTHER SUPERVISORS STUDENT SUPPORT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF STAFF SUPERVISORY TEAM DIRECTOR OF STUDIES

3 7.4 SECOND SUPERVISOR(S) AND ADVISERS COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIP INSTITUTIONS DESIGNING, PLANNING AND MANAGING THE RESEARCH PROJECT INTRODUCTION WHAT TO EXPECT FROM RESEARCH THE RESEARCH PROPOSAL ETHICS INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND RISK ASSESSMENT DATA MANAGEMENT PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PDP) ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS GUIDANCE ON FORMAT, WORD COUNT, AND BINDING OF THE THESIS PLANNING THE THESIS AIMS AND OBJECTIVES LITERATURE REVIEW RESEARCH METHODOLOGY TIMETABLE ORGANISATION KEEPING A LOGBOOK / PDP REGULAR WRITING OR RECORD KEEPING SUPPORT REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY RECOMMENDED READING TRANSFERRING FROM MPHIL TO PHD RESEARCH AND FROM PART ONE TO PART TWO FOR PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATES TRANSFER FROM MPHIL TO PHD STAGE ONE STAGE TWO STAGE THREE STAGE FOUR TRANSFER FROM PART ONE TO PART TWO OF AN MRES PROGRAMME OF STUDY OR A PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE STAGE ONE STAGE TWO EMPLOYMENT CHANGING A MODE OF STUDY EXTENSION OR SUSPENSION OF STUDIES SUBMISSION AND ORAL EXAMINATION FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS SUBMISSION OF THE THESIS EARLY SUBMISSION OF THESIS THE EXAMINING BOARD ORAL EXAMINATION EXAMINATION OF THE THESIS (PRIOR TO THE ORAL EXAMINATION) THE ORAL EXAMINATION PREPARING FOR AN ORAL EXAMINATION THE ORAL EXAMINATION PROCESS POSSIBLE OUTCOMES NOTIFICATION OF RESULTS CORRECTIONS AND AMENDMENTS TO THESIS RESUBMISSION OF THESIS SUBMIT AS AN MPHIL (ONLY IN THE CASE OF A PHD SUBMISSION) FAIL PERMANENT BINDING OF THESIS UNFAIR PRACTICE

4 14.1 AVOIDING UNFAIR PRACTICE PENALTIES FOR UNFAIR PRACTICE RESEARCH GOVERNANCE RESEARCH MISCONDUCT APPEALS AND COMPLAINTS YOUR CONDUCT AT THE UNIVERSITY GENERAL REGULATIONS APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS HEALTH AND SAFETY REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE STUDENT DEBT TO THE UNIVERSITY DISCIPLINARY ISSUES STUDENT SUPPORT CARMARTHEN CAMPUS LAMPETER CAMPUS LONDON CAMPUS SWANSEA CAMPUS GENERAL INFORMATION CONTACT INFORMATION APPENDIX 1 - STUDENT LIFECYCLE

5 1 Introduction Welcome to the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD). We hope that you will enjoy your time studying for a research degree with us. 1.1 The purpose of this handbook and other documents This handbook provides you with information about the various procedures and regulations you will encounter at the University and is intended to guide research degree students throughout their Programme of Study. The handbook makes frequent reference to a number of other important sources of information relating to the University, including the Academic Quality Handbook - in particular Chapter 8 which covers Research Degree Regulations - and the Code of Practice for Research Degrees. Students studying for MRes programmes of study and professional doctorates also need to consult chapters 6 and 7 of the Academic Quality Handbook. These documents are available on the University s website and through MyDay, the University s electronic information portal Students who are not based at one of the University s campuses (e.g. external, off-campus, or distance learning students) will also find additional valuable information in the Distance Learning Student Guide which gives information specific to students studying through this mode of study. This document is also available on the University s website and through MyDay. This handbook is for all research degrees students studying for UWTSD degrees, including all research degrees students studying for an award validated through UWTSD at a collaborative partnership institution. It is also for all students who are studying for a University of Wales award at UWTSD. In addition to this handbook, students may receive additional information from their Faculty, School, or a collaborative partner institution. For example, students enrolled on a Professional Doctorate or an MRes programme of study will, in addition to this Handbook, also receive a Programme of Study Handbook upon enrolment. Programme of Study Handbooks include information about all the taught modules of part one of such degrees. Students enrolled through collaborative partnership institutions may also receive additional information from the collaborative partnership institution. The University has made every effort to ensure that this information is as full and as accurate as possible, but please note that changes are made from time to time and that all regulations and procedures are reviewed annually. We aim to keep any such changes to a minimum and students will be informed in the event of any major alteration. This handbook is intended to be helpful to you and we would welcome your feedback on how it might be improved. Please send any comments to quality@uwtsd.ac.uk. 1.2 Research Degrees Regulations The regulations and procedures outlined in the Academic Quality Handbook and the Code of Practice for Research Degrees are applicable to all research degree students enrolled on UWTSD degrees. For students that are enrolled for a University of Wales award, there is additional oversight at every stage of candidature by the University of Wales, through its Degrees and Academic Awards Board (DAAB). The regulations, as set out in Chapter 8 of the Academic Quality Handbook, apply to all research degree students with the following exceptions: 5

6 1) The word count regulations have changed for research degrees students studying for a practice-based PhD / MPhil by Research (e.g. within the areas of Film and Media or Creative Writing). Students who started their degrees before October 2012 will continue to work towards the word limit and structure of their programme as stipulated by the regulations when they started their degrees. All students who started their degree on or after October 2012 will follow the regulations as set out in the current regulations; 2) Current students on either the DMin programme or the PhD in Applied Archaeology will continue to study according to the regulations that were in force when they started their programmes; the current Professional Doctorate regulations do not apply to students on those programmes. 3) For University of Wales candidates the UW outcome regulations apply. For all UWTSD students the outcome regulations apply as specified in the Academic Quality Handbook. The unfair practice regulations, suspension regulations, appeal and complaints regulations as well as all disciplinary regulations will be applied to all students in accordance with the regulations as they are set out in the current Academic Quality Handbook, in Chapter 8. The Academic Quality Handbook can be found on the university website at: Please note that whereas students studying for an MRes degree or a Professional Doctorate study for a named award, students studying for an MPhil or PhD are studying for an MPhil or PhD by research rather than for an MPhil or PhD in a defined subject area. This includes research students working within practice-based areas of research. The regulations contain an important new section on the protocols relating to the inclusion of non-textual artefacts in a thesis and the examination of such a thesis as well as a new section on the use of published papers within research degrees other than the PhD by Published Works. Please note also that the pass mark for Part One modules for MRes programmes of study as well Professional Doctorates is 50%. 1.3 Code of Practice for Research Degrees In addition to the regulations UWTSD has a Code of Practice for Research Degrees. The Code elaborates on the research degrees regulatory framework. The Code of Practice provides information about the processes involved in the administration of research degree study, from admission to graduation. Where there appears to be ambiguity in advice given in the different documents, the regulations, as outlined in the Academic Quality Handbook, take precedence over all documents and the Code of Practice for Research Degrees should be regarded as more authoritative than this Postgraduate Research Student Handbook, any Programme of Study Handbooks, or any information supplied by the Faculty or collaborative partnership institution. 1.4 UWTSD Research Degrees Committee and University of Wales DAAB The regulations and procedures for research degrees are governed by UWTSD s Research Degrees Committee. For students that are enrolled on degrees awarded by the University of Wales there is additional oversight of every stage of candidature by the University of Wales DAAB. For students enrolled through collaborative partners there may also be a partnership RDC which reports to the UWTSD RDC. In this research student handbook whenever RDC is mentioned the UWTSD RDC is meant. 6

7 1.4.1 UWTSD Research Degrees Committee (RDC) The Research Degrees Committee oversees all aspects of University s research degrees provision. This committee, which has representation from all Faculties, reports to the Research Committee and the Academic Quality and Standards Committee on the effectiveness of the arrangements for maintaining appropriate academic standards and enhancing the quality of postgraduate research programmes. The Research Degrees Committee meets on a regular basis, normally about once a month, to discuss all matters relating to research degrees. It is also charged with developing all procedures that support, monitor, and review all aspects of the University s research degrees provision. Membership and the terms of reference of the Research Degrees Committee can be found in Chapter 2 of the Academic Quality Handbook Student Representation and feedback Three student representatives attend the Research Degrees Committee on behalf of all students enrolled on research degree programmes; one to represent the Lampeter/Carmarthen campuses, one for the London campus, and one for the Swansea campus. In addition, there may also be the opportunity for representation at Faculty level. Student representatives are normally elected for a period of three years. Attendance at this committee may take the form of video-conferencing or participation through Skype; in other words if you are a distance learning student this does not mean that you could not become a student representative. If you wish to raise an issue with the Research Degrees Committee, you should contact the student representative who will feed the comments to the Committee and report back to you. You can, of course, also contact the Students Union, the Student Experience Department, or discuss your issue with your Faculty who can then take the issue to RDC through the Faculty representation system. Students can give formal feedback through surveys such as the PRES and, for example, through annual monitoring forms. There is, of course, also always the opportunity to give informal feedback, whether that is on the systems and processes that the University uses for research degrees, on the administration of research degrees, on supervision and research culture, or on this handbook. Feedback is always welcome and you can give your comments to your supervisory team, your representatives, staff in your Faculty, staff in the collaborative partnership institution, staff within the Postgraduate Research Office or Student Experience Department, or through Students Union structures. 1.5 Research Programmes offered by University of Wales Trinity Saint David The qualifications that are offered at research level are: A range of MRes programmes of study Master of Philosophy by Research (MPhil) Doctor of Philosophy by Research (PhD) Professional Doctorates, e.g. Doctor of Business Administrator (DBA) Doctor of Applied Archaeology (DAA) Doctor of Ministry (DMin) Doctor of Professional Practice (DProf) Doctor of Philosophy by Published Works Full details of the requirements for each qualification are provided in the Academic Quality Handbook (Chapter 8). 7

8 1.6 MRes degrees Students following MRes should also refer to the Postgraduate Student Guide (Taught Degrees) in relation to the first 60 to 90 taught credits of their programme. The MRes programme comprises of 180 credits at Level 7 (Master s level), with between taught credits for Part One of their degrees and a research project of either between 90 and 120 credits depending on the size of Part One. Your programme of study handbook will detail how many credits have been allocated to each part. All work for the taught assessment purposes must be handed in to meet deadlines. Students are informed of these deadlines by their tutors. If you are unable to submit coursework on time, for example because of illness, please follow the extenuating circumstances guidelines and regulations outlined in Chapter 13 of the Academic Quality Handbook. If the taught part of your programme of study contains an examination and you have support needs, you need to get in touch with your Programme Director as soon as possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made. More information about support for disabled students and students with specific learning needs can be found in Chapter 12 of the Academic Quality Handbook and can be obtained from Student Services. Once the taught element has been passed by the Examining Board, students may be permitted to transfer onto the research element (Part Two) of the programme. Please contact your Programme Director for further details of this process and see section 9.2 of this handbook. Regulations for the MRes can be found in Chapter 8 of the Academic Quality Handbook. 1.7 Professional Doctorates Students following Professional Doctorate Programmes should also refer to the Postgraduate Student Guide (Taught Degrees) in relation to the first 180 taught credits of their programme and to section 9.2 in this guide. The Professional Doctorate programme comprises of 540 credits with 180 credits at Level 7 (Master s level) and a minimum of 360 credits at research Level 8 (Doctoral level). All work for the taught assessment purposes must be handed in to meet deadlines. Students are informed of these deadlines by their tutors. If you are unable to submit coursework on time, for example because of illness, please follow the extenuating circumstances guidelines and regulations outlined in Chapter 13 of the Academic Quality Handbook. If the taught part of your programme of study contains an examination and you have support needs, you need to get in touch with your Programme Director as soon as possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made. More information about support for disabled students and students with specific learning needs can be found in Chapter 12 of the Academic Quality Handbook and can be obtained from Student Services. Once the taught element has been passed by the Examining Board, students may be permitted to transfer onto the research element (Part Two) of the programme. Please contact your Programme Director for further details of this process and see section 9.2 of this handbook. Regulations for Professional Doctorates can be found in Chapter 8 of the Academic Quality Handbook. Please note that it is not possible to condone any failed modules. 1.8 The University s Language Policy 8

9 The University s Language Policy confirms that the University gives equal status to both the Welsh and English languages throughout its activities. This policy gives the right to all who are associated with the University to correspond and to receive a service in their chosen language of either Welsh or English. The University sees its natural bilingual context as a strength and will develop and extend its provision of bilingual opportunities for the community it serves. 2 The University 2.1 Administrative structures for research degrees A number of professional units look after the University s research degrees provision. The Postgraduate Research Office (PGRO), which is part of the Academic Office, is responsible for the support of research degree students throughout their time at the University once they have been admitted, including the submission and examination of theses. The Postgraduate Research Office also offers support to all academic staff that are responsible for research degree students and liaises closely with the different Faculties, collaborative partnership institutions, and a range of professional units. Responsibility for the admission of research degree students lies with the Registry admission team. Responsibility for the research environment and training of research degrees students lies with the University s Research, Enterprise and Innovation Services (RIES). The Student Experience Department looks after student engagement, which includes student feedback (e.g. PRES survey) and the election of student representatives. 2.2 Faculties and Schools The University is composed of five Faculties with responsibility for the academic work of the institution. Every Faculty consists of a number of Schools, each of which focuses upon one or more academic disciplines. Some Faculties have Schools on more than one campus. Details of the Faculties and Schools can be obtained from the website. The structure for the Faculties in is as follows: Faculty of Architecture, Computing and Engineering School of Applied Computing School of Architecture, Built and Natural Environments School of Automotive Engineering School of Engineering, Manufacturing, and Logistics Faculty of Art and Design School of Design and Applied Art School of Film and Digital Media School of Fine Art and Photography School of Visual Communication Faculty of Business and Management School of Business, Finance and Management School of Sport, Health and Outdoor Education School of Tourism and Hospitality Wales Institute for Work-based Learning Faculty of Education and Communities South West Wales Centre of Teacher Education School of Early Childhood 9

10 School of Psychology School of Social Justice and Inclusion School of Welsh and Bilingual Studies Faculty of Humanities and Performing Arts School of Archaeology, History and Anthropology School of Classics School of Cultural Studies School of Performing Arts School of Theology, Religious Studies and Islamic Studies 2.3 Professional Units The University provides a range of support services for research students for which further information can be found on the university website at: Learning Resources For information regarding Learning Resources for Lampeter, Carmarthen Swansea, and London campuses go to: Student Services Further information can be found in section 19 or at: Information Technology & Systems For information regarding Information Technology & Systems for Lampeter, Carmarthen Swansea, and London campuses go to: Student Union Trinity Saint David Students' Union (TSDSU) exists to enhance the experience of students studying at the University and ensure that student concerns are at the centre of University decision making. Affiliated with the National Union of Students (NUS), TSDSU is a charity with the primary purpose of supporting and representing students. It also, organises a range of social and sporting activities that vary from campus to campus; it runs events in its own or external facilities where it hosts a range of diverse events from foam parties, sporting events to comedy nights. Each year several full-time officers are elected to represent you and lead TSDSU: Carmarthen, Lampeter and Swansea campuses have a President and a Vice President each, while a Group President covers London and the FE partners in addition to having an overall University role. You can find an assortment of activities at TSDSU there is something for everyone, including a volunteering program aimed at enhancing your employability. TSDSU also runs campaigns, with the help of its part-time officers, to ensure that issues facing students are tackled constructively. TSDSU is a democratic organisation: you can put forward ideas and, if other students agree with you, they can be voted through in an Executive Meeting and TSDSU will work hard to make your idea a reality. Perhaps you think the University should improve sports facilities, or ban bottled water, or that the officers should lobby parliament. Whatever it is, big or small, put your idea forward. 10

11 TSDSU is run by the students and for the students. If you have any issues or ideas its doors are always open, providing a friendly and welcoming environment for all students. More information about TSDSU can be found at on its websites Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and MYTSD portal The management and day to day support of VLEs is the responsibility of the Information Services. Moodle is the VLE used by UWTSD. More detailed information about the use of the VLE for your studies is available at: International Students Attendance of all students on Tier 4 (General) visas is monitored in accordance with UKVI guidelines and regulations. Students will receive full information about what will be required from them with respect to attendance on enrolment. The University s monitoring policy for research degrees students can be found in the Code of Practice for Research Degrees. For any questions in relation to monitoring, please consult with your supervisory team, the Director of Research degrees within your Faculty or your Faculty office. Please note that in addition international students will be required to re-register at the start of every term: October, January and April. 3 Required periods of study Further details on the required periods of study, including information about direct entry, RPCL (recognition of prior accredited learning) and RPEL (recognition of prior experiential learning) can be found in Chapter 10 of the Academic Quality Handbook. The tables below give the standard minimum and maximum periods of enrolment. Please note that the minimum period of study is also called the expected period of study and that the period between minimum and maximum period of candidature is called the continuation period. 3.1 MPhil / PhD by Research Full-time candidates Degree Minimum Maximum MPhil 2 year 3 years PhD 3 years 5 years Part-time candidates Degree Minimum Maximum MPhil 3 years 5 years PhD 5 years 9 years 3.2 Professional Doctorates* Full-time candidates 11

12 Minimum Maximum 3 years 5 years Part-time candidates Minimum Maximum 5 years 9 years * Please note that not all Professional Doctorates are available full-time. 3.3 MRes Full-time candidates Minimum Maximum 1 year 3 years Part-time candidates Minimum Maximum 2 years 5 years 3.4 PhD by Published Works Minimum Full time Part time Maximum 1 year 2 years 4 Re-enrolment 4.1 Re-enrolment procedures Throughout their candidature, postgraduate research students are required to re-enrol annually and this is conditional on a satisfactory annual review. International students will be required to re-register in addition at the start of every semester: October, January, April. In May of each academic year, an annual monitoring form must be completed by both the student and supervisory team. This provides both parties with an opportunity to evaluate the progress made and to signal any developmental concerns or requirements. A central Annual Review Board considers all forms to ensure that the appropriate academic standards are being met by both the student and supervisory team, and that the quality of the supervision is appropriate. Approval must then be given by the Research Degrees Committee before reenrolment can take place. Re-enrolment for the next academic year is conditional on a satisfactory annual report; students that have been given an action plan following a cause for concern or unsatisfactory judgement may only be re-enrolled provisionally and their candidature could be terminated during the academic year if the conditions of the action plan have not been met and no satisfactory progress is made. Please note that students can also only re-enrol when they have completed and signed the annual monitoring form. 12

13 For students who started their studies in February the first annual review will come in May of the same year and staff will take into account the length of candidature when they fill in the review form for candidates who are in this situation. A re-enrolment pack will then be sent to you by the Registry asking you to complete the reenrolment and, where appropriate, tuition fee forms. Your enrolment for the next academic year cannot be completed until you have completed and submitted all the relevant paperwork. On completion of the standard fee paying period (that is, the minimum candidature period), your enrolment will roll over to the maximum period of enrolment, during which an annual continuation fee will be paid until either you submit your thesis or your candidature expires, whichever occurs first. There is no continuation fee for students who started their studies prior to October Please note, that you will be required to pay the full fees for the minimum candidature period even if you submit your thesis within this period. You should always discuss the submission of your thesis with your supervisory team prior to submitting it. For further guidelines in relation to early submission please see the Code of Practice for Research Degrees. It is vitally important that the Registry has an accurate record of each student s personal details at all times. It is equally important that students ensure that they are registered on the correct Programme of Study. Failure to inform the Registry of any changes in this respect is likely to cause some or all of the following problems: delay in obtaining funding, e.g. US federal loans; UKVI problems as a result of a delay in obtaining a Tier 4 (General) visa; failure to keep students generally informed; failure to contact students in an emergency. Students must inform the Registry and supervisory team in writing of any change to term-time and/or home address or any other contact details at the earliest opportunity. 4.2 Student Numbers When students first register, they are allocated a unique student number. It is important that students use their student number as well as their name when communicating with staff in different parts of the University. This will not only improve the efficiency of many administrative processes; it will also reduce the possibility of error. 5 Induction programme The postgraduate research student induction programme is intended to introduce students to postgraduate life at UWTSD and to provide them with the essential tools for the start of their research programme. The initial intensive Induction Programme takes place at the start of each enrolment period on the University s campuses. This induction programme introduces students to the regulatory framework and includes introductions to the resources and facilities available at UWTSD and outside, such as, for example, the National Library of Wales. There will also be a range of seminars designed to help students to start their programmes successfully. All newly enrolled residential research degrees students are expected to attend the induction sessions. Distance learning students are encouraged to attend an induction programmes in person if at all possible, but an induction programme will also be made available electronically through the VLE. 13

14 The induction programme will start the Professional Development Planning (PDP) process for all research degrees candidates and build on the training analysis that was done as part of the admission process. For further information about PDP see section 8.7 in this guide, as well as the Code of Practice for Research Degrees. Students enrolled on MRes programmes of study and Professional Doctorates will have an additional induction session when they start part two of their studies. Additional induction activities may also be organised by your Faculty, School, or collaborative partnership institutions and you will be informed about these by your supervisory team. Some of these may be compulsory to attend. 5.1 Non-accredited Generic Skills Module for MPhil and PhD by Research Students Once enrolled, all new MPhil and PhD by Research students, with the exception of those that have been given direct entry to the PhD and explicit exemption of this part of the programme, are expected to complete the non-accredited Generic Skills for Research Students module that has been set up on Moodle. The units in this module aim at helping to guide you through the starting phase of your research. The work associated with units should be completed and submitted to your Director of Studies during the first 6 months (12 months for part-time students) of your research. Completion of the module is monitored through the Annual Monitoring process. The generic skills module comprises of the following units: Unit 1 Support and Supervision Unit 2 Reviewing the Literature Unit 3 Ethical Issues Unit 4 Project Management Unit 5 Refining your Research Unit 6 Looking Forward Writing your thesis The Generic Skills for Research Students module can be accessed once you are fully enrolled and have obtained access to Moodle. Information Services provides all new students with access to the VLE. A VLE guide, giving information about how to access the VLE can be found on the University s website ( If there are any problems, please contact Information Services (for contact details see section 2.3.3). Faculties and collaborative partnership institutions may, depending on specific discipline requirements, add additional information or units, for example in relation to practice-based research degrees. 5.2 Graduate Teaching Assistants If you are undertaking any teaching during your studies, you must be enrolled on and complete the University s accredited Teaching in Higher Education programme for Graduate Teaching Assistants. Your Faculty will give you further information about this. Any teaching that you undertake must be formally approved by the Faculty and an appropriate contract must be set up with HR. 6 Roles and responsibilities of postgraduate research students 14

15 6.1 Rights and responsibilities of the Student The rights and responsibilities research degree students are as follows: a. Acknowledge receipt of the regulations, Code of Practice for Research Degrees and Research Student handbook; b. Familiarise themselves with the University regulations and guidelines, processes and procedures for research degrees; c. Enrol with UWTSD at the start of each academic year; d. Have regular contact with their supervisory teams as per monitoring policy outlined in the Code of Practice for Research Degrees and attend all formal and informal meetings scheduled; e. Attend any classes that are part of Part One of an MRes or Professional Doctorate programme; f. Make the supervisory team aware of any specific needs or circumstances likely to affect their work; g. Complete all necessary forms and paperwork used by the University to monitor progress and performance; h. Take ownership of their research plan. A record of training, progress reports, conference contributions etc. are expected to be recorded in a Personal Development Profile (PDP); i. Attend the research seminars and training events provided by the Faculty or collaborative partnership institutions whether in person or, for distance learning students, electronically; j. Follow the requirements for submission of the thesis, especially the requirement for referencing according to a consistent and recognised standard. 6.2 Participation in the research environment The University encourages and strongly recommends that students become as involved in the research environment and culture of the University or collaborative partnership institution as possible. Not only will this enable students to meet other researchers (research by its very nature can be quite solitary), but it will also give students a stronger voice and a feeling of involvement. Information of events will be posted on the University website and on many occasions students will be informed of events by . It is therefore important that students check their university address on a regular basis. The University provides several ways for students to become involved in research culture, which include the following: Completion of the Initial Experience Questionnaire; Completion of the Annual Monitoring Form; Participation in surveys (Postgraduate Research Experience Survey) Representation at the Research Degrees Committee or at Faculty / collaborative partnership institution level; Invitations to hear guest speakers; The opportunity to attend the University s annual Graduate Research Summer School on the Lampeter campus; The opportunity to attend research seminars organised by the University, Faculties, Schools, or collaborative partnership institution or listen to these through podcasts; Participation in on-line forums through the VLE; Invitations to attend research seminars, workshops and conferences both inside the University and externally and, where appropriate and possible, get involved in their organisation. 15

16 It is as important for distance learning students to be and feel included within the University s research environment as it is for residential students. The University therefore, for example, aims to make as many research seminars as possible available as podcasts via the VLE and many distance learning students have found attendance at the University s annual Graduate Research Summer School extremely beneficial. Information about this summer school is sent to all students by the University s Research, Innovation and Enterprise Services (RIES) Facilities For research projects that are studio or laboratory-based, students will usually have access to a range of facilities within the Faculty or collaborative partnership institutions. Faculties and collaborative partnership institutions will inform students about regulations in relation to the access to dedicated areas or specific equipment. For example, students may need to book a studio within time-tabled slots. Faculties and collaborative partnership institutions will also inform students if there is a dedicated space available on campus for study for research degrees students. The University will strive to ensure that students have sufficient access to space and equipment in order to fully pursue their project. Any possible problems with facilities should immediately be brought to the attention of the supervisory team What to expect from your supervision Research projects within the University cover a vast range of areas, and, whilst no one pattern of progression and assessment is appropriate for all, the formal monitoring pattern falls into a universal pattern which is designed to be helpful to students but provides the necessary assurances to the University that all is well with their work. The University s minimum expectation with regard to formal meetings are included in the monitoring policy which is part of the Code of Practice for Research Degrees. However, some common features will probably include the following: Regular meetings with your supervisor(s) Regular contact with your supervisors is essential and students as well as supervisors have an obligation to initiate these meetings. Oral presentations of your work Each Faculty and collaborative partnership institution organises research seminars and there is also an annual research degrees student conference and the University s annual Graduate Summer School on the Lampeter campus. On occasion you will be expected to present your results at these informal settings. Not only will this allow discussion amongst peers of any research problems you may be facing, but it will also enable you to further strengthen your presentation skills. Assistance with such skills will be given where needed and the student should record this personal development in their PDP file. Written presentations of your work Again depending on the precise work that students are conducting they will at intervals be required to present written reports on your progress. These range from weekly one-page summaries to formal typed interim reports or drafts of chapters. Although the latter in particular may require a lot of work, they will make an excellent basis for embarking on the completion of annual reports and theses. Computer skills will feature heavily in most cases and are regarded as an important generic outcome of research training. Key stages of progress 16

17 There are a number of key stages during each research degree programme. More information about these is given below and an overview of the research degrees students life cycle is given in Appendix Maintaining Regular Contact Students are expected to meet their supervisory team on a regular basis throughout their period of study: for full-time students there are expected to be ten formal meetings per year, for part-time students there are expected to be five formal meetings per year. This is irrespective of whether you are a residential or distance learning student and irrespective of the stage of candidature. Full details of what is expected can be found in the University s monitoring policy for research degrees and the Code of Practice for Research Degrees. Regular contact between the student and supervisory team is essential for the successful outcome of the research candidature. It has been shown that regular contact and supervision substantially improves the quality and academic standards of a thesis and improves the probability of a successful viva within the period of candidature. If a student does not maintain regular contact, supervisory teams may become concerned that the student is not making satisfactory progress. These concerns will be raised with the Dean of Faculty, Head of School or their Faculty Director of Research Degrees and the Postgraduate Research Office, where the student will be asked to contact their supervisory team or submit work. If regular contact does still not continue, this will be reported on the annual review form or directly to the Research Degrees Committee and the student s progress may be deemed unsatisfactory and re-enrolment onto the next academic year may not be permitted. Of course, unforeseen personal or professional problems may occur to impede progress; if this is the case, it is essential that the student contacts both their Director of Studies and the Postgraduate Research Office to inform them of the situation. Advice will be given on how to proceed with the matter. Where students do not feel comfortable discussing a problem with a member of the supervisory team (for example when the problem concerns a member of the supervisory team or when the candidate is a member of staff) this should be raised initially and immediately with the Dean of Faculty, Head of School, their Director of Research Degrees Studies or the Postgraduate Research Office in order for the matter to be resolved informally. 6.4 Completing annual monitoring reports Postgraduate research students and supervisory teams are required to complete a formal report of progress and achievements each year, together with plans for the completion of the research programme, before research degree students can re-enrol. The supervisory team fills in the detailed form first; students then see the comments made about their progress and performance and are required to fill in the student feedback part of the form, again completing a detailed set of questions. All students are required to fill in this form and to sign it to indicate that they have read and understood the supervisory team s assessment. If a student is concerned about the assessment from the supervisory team, then they need to contact their Dean of Faculty, Head of School, or their Director of Research Degrees Studies in the first instance. This annual monitoring process usually takes place in May and June, with the central Annual Review Board meeting being held in July. Full information about this Board can be found in Chapter 8 of the Academic Quality Handbook and the Code of Practice for Research Degrees. Follow-up Review Boards are held in relation to any student classified as cause for concern or unsatisfactory. All students will be sent a letter by the Postgraduate Research Office following the central Annual Review Board to inform them about the outcome of the Board. 17

18 Please note that the supervisory team is only able to recommend an outcome and that it is the central Review Board takes the final decision on the appropriate outcome result. The central Review Board ensures that there is consistency in the decision making process across the University and its collaborative partnerships and that there is parity for all research degree students. Students may submit an additional report at any time, without any contribution from the supervisory team, if the student wishes to bring a matter of concern to the attention of the Research Degrees Committee. If this is the case, the report should be sent to the Postgraduate Research Office in the first instance. 6.5 Satisfactory Progress (MPhil / PhD by Research) The progress of a postgraduate research student s studies is continually monitored throughout the period of candidature in a variety of ways which include: Submission of a Full Research Proposal by the first formal review (3 months for fulltime candidates, 6 months for part-time) giving details of the work that has been carried out and is planned, the methodology and techniques to be used, how any skills are to be acquired and the planned time-frame for the completion of the project. This is also an opportunity to assess the research for any ethical issues not previously identified with approval of the University s Ethics Committee required via the submission of an ethics form before progress can be confirmed. Similarly, any risk assessment or Intellectual Property arrangements that have not been completed yet need to be finalised at this stage as well as any arrangements relating to the inclusion of nontextual artefacts or published papers within the thesis.. Please note that the Full Research proposal must include a detailed schedule of work. Transfer from MPhil/PhD to PhD. The entire transfer process must have been completed within the initial 18 month period for full-time candidates (30 months for parttime candidates). Details of this process are discussed in section 9. A revised and more substantial plan for the thesis should be in place at the end of the first year of full-time study (second for part-time candidates). This revised plan should aim to include a reliable estimate of the likely completion date. A first draft of the thesis submitted to the Director of Studies in good time before the prospective date of completion. Students should aim to submit a substantially complete draft for the formal meeting with the supervisory team held six months into their third year of full-time study (the end of the fourth year for part-time candidates) and at this meeting, ideally, an Examining Board should have been identified and a submission date agreed Satisfactory Progress (MRes and Professional Doctorate programmes of study) Students following MRes or Professional Doctorate Programmes that include both a taught and research element, should also refer to the Postgraduate Student Guide (Taught Degrees) in relation to the taught credits of their programme and to the relevant section in this research degrees guide, for transferring from the Master to the Doctoral element of the programme and to Chapters 6 and 8 of the Academic Quality Handbook. The progress of an MRes and Professional Doctoral research student s studies is continually monitored throughout the period of candidature in a variety of ways which include: 18

19 All work for the taught assessments must be submitted to meet each deadline. Students are informed of these deadlines by their supervisors. Information about what to do if you miss a deadline can be found in Chapter 13 of the Academic Quality Handbook. Transfer from Part One (Taught) to Part Two (Research). Once the taught element has been completed and passed by the Examining Board, candidatures may apply to transfer onto the research element of the programme. They need to submit an initial research proposal which will allow for a supervisory team to be set up. Once students have entered the research phase of their studies, submission of a Full Research Proposal by the first formal review (3 months for full-time candidates, 6 months for part-time) giving details of the work to be carried out, the methodology and techniques to be used, how any skills are to be acquired and the planned timeframe for the completion of the project. This is also an opportunity to assess the research for any ethical issues not previously identified, to address any Intellectual Property issues or complete any risk assessments. The inclusion of non-textual artefacts and / or published papers in the thesis also needs to be approved at this stage. A first draft of the portfolio/ thesis should be submitted to the Director of Studies in good time before the prospective date of completion. Students should aim to submit a substantially complete draft in good time. Ideally, an Examining Board should have been identified and a submission date agreed at least three months before the end of candidature. 6.6 Cause for Concern and Unsatisfactory Progress If the supervisory team is concerned about the rate of a student s progress there are several opportunities at which this can be identified and discussed with the student. There may be personal reasons explaining the lack of progress, in which case the supervisory team may be able to provide the student with, or direct the student to, relevant advice. It is essential that you keep your supervisory team informed of your progress; if unsatisfactory progress continues, it will be reported to the central Annual Review Board and the student s progress may be deemed to give cause for concern or be unsatisfactory. Further details of what constitutes as satisfactory, cause for concern and unsatisfactory can be found in the Code of Practice for Research Degrees. If a student has any concerns relating to their progress they should be discussed with their Director of Studies as soon as possible. 6.7 A Cause for concern or Unsatisfactory Report The central Annual Review Board will decide whether a student s annual review report is satisfactory, gives cause for concern or is unsatisfactory. As noted, it may overturn a recommendation from the supervisory team, Faculty or collaborative partnership institution in this respect. If the progress gives cause for concern or is unsatisfactory, the University will decide on an appropriate action. This can vary from an action plan for a specified period, conditional re-enrolment, to termination of the programme of studies. The student will be informed of this decision. It is possible to appeal the decision of the Annual Review Board but please note that students will need to explain why they had not given information (for example in relation to extenuating circumstances) on the annual monitoring form if they decide to disclose information at a later date. Please note also that it is not possible to use extenuating circumstances to ensure a satisfactory outcome result. If progress is not in line with the expected progress to be made at a particular stage of candidature, it will be classed as cause for concern or unsatisfactory irrespective of the reasons behind the lack of progress or performance. However, knowledge of extenuating circumstances is crucial for the supervisory 19

20 team and University to decide what the best course of action is and in deciding what support needs to be offered. In the case of a cause for concern or unsatisfactory report, the University may decide that a student should be allowed to re-enrol, but will usually attach conditions to this permission. Alternatively, the decision may be taken, after unsuccessful remedial action, to terminate the student s enrolment. In this case the student will be informed in writing of the decision and of how they can appeal against the decision. 6.8 Formal warning Generally a postgraduate research student will be given a formal warning if the supervisory team are seriously concerned that, despite advice, progress continues to be unsatisfactory or give cause for concern. An action plan will be set up to re-establish satisfactory progress, including how that progress will be monitored. Subsequent failure to make satisfactory progress without a good reason will usually result in a recommendation to the Research Degrees Committee that enrolment should be terminated. If a student is not satisfied with the supervisory team s position the student can discuss the matter informally with the Dean of Faculty, Head of School, Faculty or Collaborative Partnership Director of Research Degrees and/or appeal formally against the decision taken by the Research Degrees Committee. 6.9 Concerns about the relationship with the Director of Studies or other supervisors Either a postgraduate research student or the Director of Studies or any other supervisor within the supervisory team may feel that the postgraduate research student/supervisor relationship has deteriorated or is unsatisfactory, to the possible detriment of the postgraduate research student s progress. It is essential to seek early advice on this, through the supervisory team in the first instance. If the student cannot resolve the problem with the supervisory team, the Head of School (or nominee), Faculty or Collaborative Partnership s Director of Research Degrees, or Dean of Faculty should be approached for advice. Ultimately, if problems cannot be resolved, either the student or their Director of Studies may ask the Research Degrees Committee for a change to the supervisory team Student Support The University aims to support students as much as possible during the course of their studies and to provide them with opportunities to develop their research and employability skills. The University recognises that studying for a research degree is a long and challenging process and is on hand at all times to help in any way it can. UWTSD students have access to the full range of student support services offered by the University. For information about the student support services that are offered to students on the London campus, please see the following website: ( Student Services offers a range of services to distance-learning students including: Careers Service; Student Counselling Service; Study Skills Support advice on studying, preparing and presenting assignments etc via the OUTREACH team based at the Lampeter campus; Support for disabled students; 20