Research degrees 

provide a full training in research techniques and methodologies by means of a direct contribution of the advancement of a knowledge in a particular subject area. Most departments of each university admit research students and are happy to discuss with applicants their choice of research projects.

For each student, a personal supervisor is appointed. Supervisors draw on their own special experience of the subject to guide the student's work, and give encouragement and critical advice. The supervisor will advice on the training which the student should undertake and the preparation and submission of the written thesis.

The thesis:

Presents the student's own research and conclusions in detail and is examined. The examination process involves an external examiner, especially appointed as an  independent expert in the field, and included an oral examination of the student.

The examiner for the Doctoral thesis must be satisfied that it contains an  original contribution to the understanding of the subject, which is sufficiently important to merit publication, if the degree is to be awarded.

To improve their knowledge of and training in their subject, research students are required to attend appropriate general training courses and to attend relevant lecture courses. They are also encouraged to take part in seminars i which recent developments are presented and views exchanged with other workers in the field.

MPhil and PhD:

The best known examples of research degrees are the MPhil course and the PhD. They are similar in structure, but MPhil is shorter (usually two years), the length of the thesis is limited to about 60,000 words. Many who register for an MPhil do not in fact complete it as they transfer to a PhD after their first year, depending, of course, on their progress while PhD or DPhil will involve at least three years of intellectually challenging work, culminating in a thesis of around 100,000 words - a thesis which will push forward the frontiers of knowledge in your particular area. You may also have to give an oral account of your work. Although you will be assigned a supervisor who will offer help and guidance, your work is your responsibility. Your first few months will probably be spent in preparatory work to ensure that you have the tools necessary to embark on your research. It is likely that you will have to give a progress report at the end of your first year.