Stepping up to a PhD: a Guide for Aspiring Doctoral Students

Session Leader: Dr Simon Trafford

This session is aimed at students currently undertaking taught postgraduate study for a Master’s degree or equivalent but who are considering registering for a PhD or other research degree in the UK. It will consider the pros and cons of study at research postgraduate level and attempt to give a taste of what doing a PhD is like, explaining how much work you will need to do, the systems of academic support that will be available and the differences between doctoral study and what you may have encountered previously. Topics to be considered will include: how to pick a topic and supervisor; informal and formal application processes; writing a research proposal; how to fund research study; and how to prepare yourself for the PhD; what comes after the PhD.

The intention is to leave participants with a good understanding of what a doctorate involves and whether it is right for them and to provide all the knowledge and guidance they will need to prepare and submit a successful application.