Research Degree

Initially, students are registered for a Master's degree or, if the student already has a Master's which meets the University's requirements, for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. Transfer of registration from Master's to PhD can take place at any time after the first twelve months of registration, if the topic and the student prove suitable. The essential difference between these two degrees is that, whilst the MPhil should contain original research work, it is required for the PhD not only that the thesis should contain extensive original research, but that this should be of publishable standard.

Registration is for periods of twelve months at a time during the course of research. Various reports need to be submitted before re-registration can occur. Following this, a period is allowed for the writing up of the thesis. The research is usually carried out in the University, but this may be varied if the research can be carried out better elsewhere, and if suitable supervision arrangements can be made.

The minimum period of registration is twelve months for full-time and twenty-four months part-time for a Master's degree, and twenty-four months full-time and thirty-three months part-time for a Doctoral degree. The maximum time for the completion of PhDs are 4 years full-time and 6 years part-time. However, the expected completion times for PhDs are 3 years full-time and 5 years part-time.

When the thesis has been submitted, it is examined, usually by two Examiners, one internal and one external, neither of whom has previously been involved with the student's research. Full details can be found in the Regulations for Higher Degrees by Research.and Notes for the Guidance of Research Students, Supervisors and Examiners.

Careers in Information and Library Studies through Research

The most obvious route following a PhD is a career in Higher Education teaching and research. This is a growth area and rapid expansion is expected. The PhD is also increasingly proving to be a passport to middle management across a range of organisations in both public and private sectors, especially in view of the increased commonality of first and even second, degrees. In addition, larger public and academic libraries have now set up research sections closely allied to their use of computer systems and networked information sources, and are looking to attract graduates with a suitable research background.