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FACULTY OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH STUDENT HANDBOOK
2016/7
If you require the Handbook in an alternative format, please let us
know. On request we can provide you with a printed copy, enlarged
print on coloured paper, audio recording or Braille version.
Handbook Updated September 2016 to be reviewed July 2017
1
Welcome
It is a great pleasure to welcome you to the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. This
handbook aims to provide you with key information about studying for research degrees
(PhD and MPhil) at Keele as well as information about resources and procedures within our
Faculty.
The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences has a thriving academic community made up
of active researchers in a wide variety of areas within the broad spectrum of Social Sciences.
As a postgraduate research student you are a member of this community, and you are
encouraged to take advantage of the various activities that make up the intellectual life of
the Faculty.
Research students are a very valuable part of the Faculty and we try and provide an
environment where your research can develop and flourish. If you have any queries, please
do not hesitate to get in touch with the relevant staff members (see a full list of contacts and
roles in the appendix), who will be happy to help you.
Every effort is made to ensure that the information contained in this Handbook and in all
other documentation provided by the School is correct at the time of publication. The
Handbook does not replace the entries in the University Regulations, which are authoritative
statements. In the case of a contradiction or other discrepancy between information in this
Handbook and the Regulations, the Regulations shall be authoritative, unless approval has
been given for a variation. We would however, be grateful to you for drawing any sources of
contradictory information to our attention. The University will do all it reasonably can to
provide the programme as described in this document. Given the duration of the
programme, circumstances beyond the University’s reasonable control may mean that it
cannot deliver the programme as described. In addition to the other information provided,
the University seeks to identify below the circumstances in which it may be required to make
changes. Where any such changes are made, the University will notify the relevant students
as early as reasonably possible and will take all reasonable steps to minimise any disruption
which may result, for example, by delivering a modified version of the programme, affording
the opportunity to withdraw and providing help to transfer to another institution or, where
relevant, by providing alternative optional modules. It may be helpful to remember that
Schools sometimes operate different procedures and you are advised to refer to the relevant
School Handbook for modules being taken in another School.
University Policies and Regulations
Student Charter: http://www.keele.ac.uk/aboutus/studentcharter/ - the Charter sets out
what you can expect of the University and our expectations of you. Student-related
regulations:
2
http://www.keele.ac.uk/paa/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/unive
rsityregulations/stud ent-relatedregulations/ Student Discipline procedures:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentdiscipline/ Regulations on examinations and assessments:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/regulations/regulation8/ Key University dates:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/keydates/ University Policy on Late Submission of Assessed Work:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/paa/academicadministration/policies/lateandfailuretosubmitwritte
nwork/
Code of practice http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/codeofpractice/
3
CONTENTS
WELCOME ............................................................................................................................................................. 1
SECTION 1: THE POSTGRADUATE RESEARCHER.................................................................................... 5 1.1 THE AIMS OF POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH ................................................................................................................... 5 1.2 THE ROLE OF SUPERVISION ........................................................................................................................................... 6
SECTION 2: THE FACULTY OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES ............................................... 9 2.1 KEY CONTACTS ............................................................................................................................................................. 10
2.1.1 HumSS Faculty Research Director ........................................................................................................... 10 2.1.2 Postgraduate Research (PGR) Directors ............................................................................................... 10 2.1.3 PGR Administrators........................................................................................................................................ 11 2.1.4 PGR Student Representatives ..................................................................................................................... 11
2.2 COMMUNICATION ......................................................................................................................................................... 12 2.2.1 EVision ................................................................................................................................................................. 12 2.2.2 Keele Learning Environment (KLE) ......................................................................................................... 12 2.2.3 Links to forms and documentation .......................................................................................................... 12 2.2.3 Timetabling ....................................................................................................................................................... 13 2.2.4 IT Services .......................................................................................................................................................... 13 2.2.5 On-line profile ................................................................................................................................................... 14
2.3 KEY RESOURCES ..................................................................................................................................................... 14 2.3.1 Work space ........................................................................................................................................................ 14 2.3.2 Funding ............................................................................................................................................................... 15 2.3.3 Links to University policies and regulations............................................................................................ 15
2.3.4 Teaching Opportunities ................................................................................................................................. 16
2.3.5 Equipment Loans .............................................................................................................................................. 16
3.1 POSTGRADUATE COMMITTEES ....................................................................................................................................... 16
3.2 PLANNING AND ADMINISTRATION DIRECTORATE ......................................................................................................... 16
3.2.1 COMPLAINTS AND APPEALS PROCEDURE .................................................................................................................... 17
3.3 EDUCATIONAL, WELFARE AND SOCIAL SUPPORTS .......................................................................................................... 17
3.3.1 The Learning and Professional Development Centre .......................................................................... 17
3.3.2 Library .................................................................................................................................................................. 18
3.3.3 Student Support and Well Being................................................................................................................. 18
3.3.4 Language Learning Unit (LLU) ..................................................................................................................... 19
3.3.5 Student Lead Support ..................................................................................................................................... 20
SECTION 4: STARTING OUT ................................................................................................................................ 20
4.1 MEETING YOUR SUPERVISOR .......................................................................................................................................... 20
4.2 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING PLAN .......................................................................................................... 21
4.3 RESEARCH TRAINING ....................................................................................................................................................... 21
4.3.1 Extenuating circumstances (on research modules) ............................................................................. 23
4.3.2 Academic Appeals – Modules ...................................................................................................................... 23
4.4 ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT ............................................................................................................................................... 23
4.4.1 EXAM REGULATIONS ................................................................................................................................................... 24
4.4.2 PLAGIARISM ................................................................................................................................................................. 24
4.5 EXTERNAL EXAMINERS – RESEARCH MODULES ............................................................................................................ 24
4.6 EXEMPTIONS ................................................................................................................................................................... 24
4.7 ATTENDING RESEARCH SEMINARS AND ANNUAL CONFERENCE ..................................................................................... 25
4.8 ATTENDANCE MONITORING ........................................................................................................................................... 25
4.9 THINKING ABOUT RESEARCH ETHICS .............................................................................................................................. 25
4
SECTION 5: MAKING PROGRESS ....................................................................................................................... 26
5.1 PROGRESS REPORTS ........................................................................................................................................................ 26
5.2 PROFESSION AND STATUTORY BODY REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................... 27
5.3 PROOFREADING GUIDANCE............................................................................................................................................. 27
5.4 APPLYING FOR ETHICAL APPROVAL ................................................................................................................................. 27
5.5 PROCESS FOR INVESTIGATING ALLEGED ETHICS OFFENCES .......................................................................................... 27
5.6 PROGRESSION AND RESULTS – DOCTORAL PROGRESSION ............................................................................................ 28
5.7 REQUESTS TO TRANSFER FROM MPHIL TO PHD .......................................................................................................... 28
5.8 TRANSFER FROM PHD TO MPHIL .................................................................................................................................. 29
5.9 LEAVE OF ABSENCE .......................................................................................................................................................... 29
5.9 VISAS AND IMMIGRATION............................................................................................................................................... 30
5.10 PRE-SUBMISSION REVIEW ............................................................................................................................................ 30
5.11 CONTINUATION ............................................................................................................................................................ 31
SECTION 6: SUBMITTING YOUR THESIS .......................................................................................................... 31
6.1 FINALISING YOUR TITLE ................................................................................................................................................... 32
6.2 APPOINTING EXAMINERS ................................................................................................................................................ 32
6.3 MEETING THE SUBMISSION DEADLINE............................................................................................................................ 32
6.4 REQUESTING AN EXTENSION ........................................................................................................................................... 32
6.5 THE VIVA ......................................................................................................................................................................... 33
6.6 RESUBMISSION OF THESIS .............................................................................................................................................. 33
SECTION 7: HEALTH AND SAFETY ..................................................................................................................... 33
7.1 HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ...................................................................................................................................... 33
7.2 EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY STATEMENT .......................................................................................................................... 34
7.3 DIGNITY & RESPECT FRAMEWORK ................................................................................................................................. 34
APPENDIXES ......................................................................................................................................................... 36
APPENDIX 1: FURTHER READING ........................................................................................................................................... 36
APPENDIX 2: FLOW CHART OF KEY STAGES ........................................................................................................................... 36
APPENDIX 3: IMPORTANT CONTACTS WITHIN THE HUMSS FACULTY RESEARCH OFFICE .................................... 39
5
Section 1: The Postgraduate Researcher
You’re reading this handbook because you’ve been successful in your application to do a
PhD or MPhil and in your education to date. Your proposal was accepted because your idea
had good research potential and because you had a convincing plan of action. So you’re off
to a great start. Now that you’ve become a postgraduate researcher, the next step is
figuring out how to make the most of that potential. Being a postgraduate researcher
should be an exciting and challenging experience. Some of the most creative and inspiring
research has been generated by early career researchers like you, who were able to take
advantage of exciting research opportunities that came their way.
This handbook1 is intended to point out research opportunities in the Faculty of Humanities
and Social Sciences. It also recognizes that there will be moments when things get difficult,
and advises about the supports that we provide for those moments. As a postgraduate
researcher it’s important to protect time for your own reading, thinking, investigating and
writing. But it’s also important to make space to exchange with other researchers as part of
figuring out the significance of your discoveries, and to learn from other people’s
experiences. In providing some guidance on the postgraduate research experience in the
Faculty, we hope to help you make the most of your time here.
1.1 The aims of postgraduate research You’ve got 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time (with a maximum additional year or 2 years
part-time) to develop and complete a research project which your examiners find to be an
original and rigorous contribution to knowledge (see Annex A1 of the Code of Practice
http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/codeofpractice/). There are different
ways to be ‘original’. You might generate and analyse new empirical data on a particular
issue like the experience of migration. You might construct a new normative argument
about how a phenomenon like alcoholism should be treated. Or you might come up with a
new interpretation of a set of practices, such as environmental protests. In demonstrating
that your evidence, argument or interpretation is original, you have to persuade your expert
audience that your account is different in some way to the knowledge that has gone before.
You have to be ‘rigorous’ in your explanation and characterization of the research field to
which you claim to be making an original contribution. Being rigorous means representing
other work carefully and paying attention to those who are likely to disagree with you, as
well as those who agree with your approach.
Knowledge needs to be disseminated in order to qualify as research, that is, it needs to be
communicated to other researchers. Research grows through the presentation of empirical
1 This Handbook should be read together with the University’s Code of Practice on
Postgraduate Research Degrees (CoP)
http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/codeofpractice/ In case of any conflict
the Code of Practice and University Regulations take precedence.
6
and conceptual findings at academic conferences and through publication in peer-reviewed
journals, in edited collections, and in monograph form. This process of communicating and
sharing over the significance of your work is vital, otherwise your thoughts and observations
would remain personal reflection rather than ‘a contribution to knowledge’. As your work is
received, you get feedback on its strengths and weaknesses, feedback which helps future
development. Dissemination is also necessary in order for your research to have an impact
on knowledge, that is for it to be taken up by other researchers and change the way your
topic is understood. Many researchers are motivated by wanting to make a difference
beyond the world of research. They might want to try and change policy, or to contribute to
a change in how music is performed or how healthcare is delivered, or even to generate new
employment. The public, ‘non-academic’, benefit of research involves people in dialogue
and exchange with civil society, with service providers, unions, charities, and businesses,
about the usefulness of research in order to try and effect some economic or social change.
One of the challenges for the postgraduate researcher then is learning about and practising
these different dimensions of the research process – originality, rigour, dissemination and
impact – and developing an approach that makes sense for you.
Some postgraduate researchers are clear that they want to become academics and are doing
a PhD in order to get the relevant qualifications and expertise to research and teach in the
future. University teachers and researchers need to have an area of expertise which they
draw on in developing courses and new research projects. But the PhD also provides them
with the experience of conducting their first big, individually led research project. That
practice - of figuring out workable and innovative research questions, of defining the types
of literature, concepts and methods that are relevant to those questions, of planning,
carrying out and updating a set of research activities, and finally of writing up the
arguments, evidence and ideas you discovered along the way – gives individuals the
expertise to go on and devise new projects, whether individual or collaborative. As a result,
PhD graduates sometimes take that experience into other walks of life, such as project
management or perhaps into a sector that uses your specialist expertise. Other
postgraduate researchers want their degree to complement and develop professional work
that they are doing already. In some cases, they will be doing Professional Doctorates, in
others they may do a PhD part-time. For everyone, postgraduate research is an opportunity
for organic intellectual activity; a space to be creative and critical in contributing to human
understanding.
1.2 The role of supervision The supervisor-student relationship is obviously a really key aspect of postgraduate
research. Over the 3 years of full-time study, or 6 years for part-time study, your supervisors
will have many roles such as teacher, mentor, pastoral tutor, and colleague. They will
certainly play a major role in getting you started in your research career and the
relationship, therefore, is a complex one that evolves over the years. It is not easy to put
together a personal specification for a ‘best PhD supervisor’ or ‘best PhD student’. Different
kinds of supervisors will suit different kinds of students, but all are expected to communicate
about their expectations. Supervision is provided by research-active members of academic
7
staff who are expected to be able to advise students on aspects of their research projects
and on matters relating to procedures. All research students have at least two supervisors,
one of whom is clearly designated as the lead supervisor. The roles of each member of the
supervisory team will be specified in the student’s Personal Development and Learning Plan.
You should arrange to meet with your supervisors during your first few weeks and agree a
plan with them by 14th November (for full-time students) or 23rd December (for part-time
students). For students who do not start in September this should be within 6 weeks full-
time or 12 weeks part-time of your start at Keele.
The Lead Supervisor will have the primary accountability for the student, is selected
primarily on the basis of appropriate subject expertise, and will normally have the necessary
skills and experience to monitor, support and direct research students’ work.
The second (or other additional) supervisor does not need to have core subject expertise,
but may bring other qualities to the supervisory team (e.g. experience, complementary
expertise, methodological advice, etc.). The function of the second supervisor is to act as an
alternative source of advice for the student (on all kinds of matters, not just the precise
subject), to ensure that a second person is aware of the student's progress and any issues
arising, generally to open up the supervisory relationship, and to provide for continuity if the
Lead Supervisor leaves for any reason (temporarily or permanently). Therefore, it may be
beneficial if the second supervisor is not in the precise subject area of the research project.
The purpose of supervision is to provide support (directly and indirectly) to the student. Your
supervisors will have interest and expertise in your chosen research topic and their
supervision responsibilities include:
providing academic guidance and acting as a mentor for the research student
providing guidance about the planning, execution and standard expected of the student
participating in the research programme
providing guidance and support on project planning and ensuring appropriate co-
ordination of resources and support to the student’s project
agreeing on a Personal Development and Learning Plan jointly with the student, in line
with agreed research training needs
participating in regular meetings. This will normally be a minimum of 1 meeting per
month for full-time students and 1 meeting per 2 months for part-time students. At
these meetings students are expected to outline progress to date and identify any key
issues to be discussed or resolved. It is expected that during the initial stages (6 months),
more frequent contact may be needed. You will also be expected to record this on your
personal development plan which will be monitored monthly.
ensuring records are taken of meetings, actions are agreed and outcomes monitored
ensuring ethical and research governance requirements are met at all stages of the
8
project
being accessible at other times when the student may need advice or guidance
requesting and monitoring written work, as appropriate, and providing constructive
written feedback on such work in reasonable time
ensuring that the student is made aware of the adequacy of progress or the standard of
the work submitted
ensuring formal reviews of research progress are completed at key stages of the
research degree
giving advice on the necessary completion dates of successive stages of work, so that the
whole may be submitted within the scheduled time, and on the submission process
providing guidance in research dissemination and getting involved in the wider academic
community, including identifying opportunities for the student to present their work and
to seek funding to support conference attendance
arranging advice from other individuals as appropriate
providing reports, as required, on student’s progress
being familiar with the Keele University Code of Practice on Postgraduate Research
Degrees
The supervisor acts in an advisory capacity. It is up to the postgraduate researcher to make
the best use of that advice in developing their research.
It is University policy that supervisors who are on research leave continue to supervise
current students and to be available to take on new students, unless their prolonged
absence from the University renders this impracticable. In such cases, the second supervisor
will usually – for the period in question – assume primary responsibility for overseeing and
directing the thesis. Students on overseas fieldwork are required to keep in regular email
contact with their supervisors.
Once a supervisor has agreed to supervise a student, the expectation is that he or she would
remain the supervisor until the student has successfully completed their degree. Maintaining
continuity of research supervision is highly desirable and should be worked towards, if at all
possible. However, there will be circumstances where supervisors change, either because of
a change in staffing or because the supervisory relationship is not working as well as it might
be. Should difficulties materialize between a supervisor and a student the matter should be
brought to the attention of the relevant Postgraduate Research Director. If concerns
remain, the issue may also be brought to the PGR Director Social Sciences. It is important
that any issues are taken up at the time, rather than left until later. It may be possible to
change the supervisor if the student is concerned and a proposed new supervisor agreed.
9
Section 2: The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Keele's Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences brings together over 170 academic staff
and over 200 postgraduate students working across a range of social science disciplines. The
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences is delighted by the REF results in which all
disciplines in the Faculty improved their performance in comparison with the Research
Assessment Exercise (RAE) in 2008. The Faculty returned over 130 staff in 9 Units of
Assessment. Overall, 74% of eligible staff were submitted, giving the Faculty a very high
research intensity rating. 64% of research in the Faculty was judged to be in the top two
categories, either world leading (4*) or of internationally excellent (3*) quality. 96% of the
work submitted was judged to be of international quality or more. Here are some notable
highlights. The Faculty aims to provide an environment to support the development and
delivery of high quality research. Members of the Faculty currently hold major grants from
the Economic and Social Research Council, the Arts and Humanities Research Council, the
Medical Research Council, the Leverhulme Trust, the British Academy, and the European
Union. The Faculty welcomes researchers from across the University and beyond to attend
the regular programme of seminars, conferences and workshops. Staff and research
students are grouped within five Research Centres, which provide a focus for seminars, grant
activity and research development. The five Centres within Social Sciences are listed below
and further information is available at http://www.keele.ac.uk/humssr/researchcentres/
Centre for Economics and Management
Centre for Law, Ethics and Society
Centre for the Study of Politics, International Relations and Environment
Centre for Social Policy
Research within the Faculty is managed by a central Faculty Research Office (FRO),
which is based on the ground floor of the Claus Moser building. The Office provides
support for all aspects of Postgraduate Research Student administration, including:
dealing with enquiries from potential students
dealing with applications from potential students and to liaise with Academic
Schools and Central Administration regarding procedures relating to research
students
co-ordinating appointment and allocation of supervisors
ensuring student reports and reviews are completed in a timely fashion
ensuring effective liaison between the Faculty Research Office and the University’s
Postgraduate Committees
10
liaising with supervisors and students regarding research training
contributing to strategic aspects of research in the Faculty, through representing the
research student perspective on the academic management team
providing general mentorship support to all degree students in the Faculty and being
available for confidential discussions and support as necessary
The FRO’s Postgraduate Research Committee (PGRC for Social Sciences) meets on a regular
basis to review issues of student support and progress. Members of the Postgraduate
Committee include the Postgraduate Directors (see below), the Faculty Research
Development Manager, the Postgraduate Administrator and the Student Representatives.
Confidential items to do with individual student progress are discussed on a closed,
confidential basis.
2.1 Key Contacts
2.1.1 HumSS Faculty Research Director
*TBC is Faculty Research Director for the Faculty of the Humanities and Social Sciences, with
overall responsibility for the management and leadership of research in the Faculty.
2.1.2 Postgraduate Research (PGR) Directors
Professor Anthony Bradney is the Director for Postgraduate Research with responsibility for
oversight all aspects of PGR research, including the training and development of PGR
researchers. In this role, Professor Bradney sits on the relevant University PGR committees
including the Research Degrees Committee, and chairs the Faculty Postgraduate Research
Committee (PGRC).
Dr Yossi Nehushtan is an Associate Director of Postgraduate Research with particular
responsibility for the guidance of PGR students in the Centre for Law, Ethics and Society
(including the Doctorate in Medical Ethics).
Professor Christopher Bailey is an Associate Director of Postgraduate Research with
particular responsibility for the guidance of PGR students in the Centre for the Study of
Politics, International Relations and the Environment.
Dr Mark Featherstone is an Associate Director of Postgraduate Research with particular
responsibility for the guidance of PGR students in the Centre for Social Policy.
Dr Anita Mangan is an Associate Director of Postgraduate Research with particular
responsibility for the guidance of PGR students in the Centre for Economics and
Management.
Professor Steve Cropper is an Associate Director of Postgraduate Research with particular
responsibility for the guidance of PGR students on professional doctorate programmes
11
(excluding DMedEth).
The PGR Directors have overall responsibility for ensuring that your programme of research
studies is appropriate and effective. Primarily, this is through the creation of an
environment which is conducive to learning about and undertaking research, but also in
ensuring that systems for maintaining supervision skills and practices are in place, in
checking that your research training programme is clear and in place, and in ensuring that
your progress is satisfactory. You may contact them at any time if you have concerns about
your research programme that have not been resolved by other means. Please see appendix
3 for contact details.
2.1.3 PGR Administrators
Please see http://www.keele.ac.uk/humssr/contactus/
Helen Farrell is the Postgraduate Administrator who supports PhD and MPhil programmes in
the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Tracey Harrison is the Postgraduate Administrator who supports the Professional Doctorate
programmes in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and assists with PhD
administration.
The PGR Administrators provide administrative support to both students and PGR Directors.
They are usually your first port of call when you have a query, and the people to whom you
submit PGR paperwork e.g. your progress report. The Administrators liaise with University
Planning and Administration and provide advice on procedures. They process all forms
relating to PGR students (with the exception of research training modules delivered by
Schools). All forms should, after electronic signed approval by the lead supervisor, be sent
to the PGR Administrators for processing by the Postgraduate Research Committee (PGRC),
and Faculty Research Committee or Research Degrees Committee if appropriate. The PGR
Administrators issue regular emails to students about conferences and information required
from students including return deadline dates. Do not hesitate to contact the PGR
Administrator if you have any queries relating to your research degree.
Yvonne Lomax is the Finance Administrator who deals with funding enquiries from students
the Centre for Law, Ethics and Society, and the Centre for the Study of Politics, International
Relations and the Environment.
Sue Humphries is the Finance Administrator who deals with funding enquiries from students
the Centre for Social Policy, the Centre for Psychology and the Centre for Economics and
Management.
2.1.4 PGR Student Representatives
Student representatives are volunteers who sit on the Faculty’s PGRC and on the University’s
Postgraduate Students’ Executive Liaison Committee (PSELC) and represent the interests of
12
students. An invitation to become a student representative is usually circulated in October,
or as the need arises. Student feedback is important to Keele and there are a number of
opportunities for you to get involved. You are also encouraged to speak with staff informally
if you have any suggestions for improvements or to seek advice regarding issues with your
programme. Student representatives do an important job in promoting the dialogue
between staff and students about developments, and it’s a good way to find out more about
how universities work. Current representatives for Social Sciences are:
Cathy Reynolds [email protected]
Stephen Meachem [email protected] Please get in touch with one of your
representatives if you have any comments or issues that you would like raised at a PSELC or
PGRC meeting.
2.2 Communication
The Faculty RO and other University services will contact you intermittently with important
information related to your studies. The primary channel for communication will be your
Keele email address. It is expected that you will check your Keele email regularly and you are
responsible for reading University emails and taking action if appropriate. The secondary
channel for communication is through the post so please ensure that you keep your address
details up-to-date on eVision.
2.2.1 EVision You will also need to make yourself familiar with eVision. eVision provides an
opportunity to: View your current and previous module marks View and update your
personal information and contact details Request a course change View your credit
requirements View your absence record Re-register for your course each year You can
access eVision through the student login on the Keele homepage. eVision is then accessible
through ‘The Office’ tab.
2.2.2 Keele Learning Environment (KLE) The KLE is used by Keele to provide every
student and member of staff with a personal teaching and learning workspace that can be
accessed through the Internet. The KLE gives you access to information, activities and
resources associated with the modules you are studying. These might include, for example,
lecture notes and slides, pictures and other material together with interactive features such
as discussion groups. You should regularly access the KLE, ideally on a daily basis, since it
provides the most accurate and up-to-date information with regard to your modules.
Support for the KLE can be found from the IT Department. Details here:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/it/itservicedesk–
2.2.3 Links to forms and documentation
Code of practice http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/codeofpractice/
Student forms http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/studentforms/
13
It is important that you consult the website, email and KLE at regular intervals. Other key
documentation can be found as follows: Programme specifications are the definitive, formal
document summarising the structure and content of your programme. Link:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/qa/programmespecifications/
2.2.3 Timetabling
Information on how to access your timetable and where to go to resolve any timetabling
issues can be found at http://www.keele.ac.uk/timetabling/
2.2.4 IT Services
Information on how to access your timetable and where to go to resolve any timetabling
issues can be found at http://www.keele.ac.uk
IT Services are responsible for your IT systems and networks throughout the University.
Their services include the wireless network, printing service, IT Suite and Labs, Laptop Loan
and Laptop repair service. They provide help and advice using Keele systems such as the KLE,
eVision, office software or Google Mail and Apps and advice when connecting to the wireless
network (eduroam). Remember when using Keele University IT systems that you are bound
by the IT Conditions of Use, a link to which can be found on http://www.keele.ac.uk/it/. It is
important that you familiarise yourself with these to ensure that you use the systems within
the terms of the Acceptable Use Policy. Keep yourself safe whilst online:- Make sure that
before connecting to the network your antivirus, web browser and operating system are all
up to date. Protect your personal information; secure your account by changing your
password to something that is memorable but secure, a combination of capital and
lowercase letters. Ensure that your online presence, particularly in social media, has the
security set to a level you are comfortable with. If you receive an email or message that
sounds too good to be true you are probably best deleting it. Do not give out personal
information to a non-accredited website or link. If in doubt about staying safe whilst online
check with someone you can trust like IT Services. IT Connect is the first point of call for
anything IT-related. It is based in the Campus Library and is open 7 days a week throughout
the semester. For further information regarding IT Services, or to report a problem or seek
advice, please visit: http://www.keele.ac.uk/it/. /
Keep yourself safe whilst online:-
● Make sure that before connecting to the network your antivirus, web browser and
operating system are all up to date.
● Protect your personal information; secure your account by changing your password
to something that is memorable but secure, a combination of capital and lowercase
letters.
● Ensure that your online presence, particularly in social media, has the security set to
a level you are comfortable with.
● If you receive an email or message that sounds too good to be true you are probably
best deleting it. Do not give out personal information to a non-accredited website or
14
link.
If in doubt about staying safe whilst online check with someone you can trust like IT Services.
The IT Service Desk is the first point of call for anything IT related. It is based in the campus
Library and IT Services building and is open 7 days per week throughout the Semester. For
further information regarding IT Services, or to report a problem or seek advice, please visit:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/it/.
All research students are automatically subscribed to a centre mail list. Note that if you reply
to a message posted to the list, it will only go to the person who posted the message. If you
want all students to see your message, you willhave to post to the maillist email address, or
select ‘reply all’ and the message will go to both the sender and to everybody on the maillist.
Administrators and PGR Directors use this list to draw your attention to deadlines, events,
and opportunities.
2.2.5 On-line profile
All research students are strongly encouraged to complete an online profile (see, for
example http://www.keele.ac.uk/humssr/currentstudents/students/adamduell/. Creating
your profile is simple – just complete the Word template here:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/humssr/currentstudents/usefulinformation/ and return to Tracey
Wood [email protected]
2.3 KEY RESOURCES
2.3.1 Work space
All full-time postgraduate research students are entitled to office space during the core
years of their research. This can be either a dedicated shared office, or high quality hot-
desking space, depending on need. Office space will be allocated following a meeting with
the Faculty Research Development Manager or Deputy Research Office Manager, where we
can identify the right type of space for your requirements. Students can access dedicated
office space, with a networked PC that is equipped with Microsoft Office and specialist
software. They will also have access to a shared printer/photocopier and telephone. For
part-time postgraduate researchers, those undertaking MPhil studies and students on
continuation status, access to office facilities is on a hot-desking basis. Full time research
students should normally have access to a workstation, storage facilities, plus:
a standard Windows PC with Internet connection, email, and relevant necessary
software
shared office space
post may be delivered to the PGR Administrators Office for collection
15
a shared printer (excessive use may be charged).
reasonable access to photocopying of research articles, chapters etc (excessive use
may be charged).
stationery for normal research related communications. Please see the
administrative staff in the Faculty Research Office.
postage for research related communications. Please see the administrative staff.
2.3.2 Funding
There are two kinds of Faculty Research Office funding available to PGR students on the
basis of an appropriate, prospective application on the RSF2 form available at
http://www.keele.ac.uk/humssr/currentstudents/usefulinformation/. PGR research support
funding (RSF) is intended to help with the costs associated with the conduct of your
individual research programme i.e. with fieldwork or archival work, presenting at
conferences, developing research networks etc. The funding of researcher development and
transferable skills training (RDF) is intended to help with the costs associated with the
provision of research training opportunities e.g. organising a research seminar or conference
or attending a necessary research training course. The Faculty also provides seminars for
PGRs on how to identify and apply for external funding opportunities, and so please look out
for these sessions, which in the past have provided funding to visit overseas archives. These
sessions are also good for developing your CV and transferable skills.
There are two stages to the receipt of FRO research support funding. First, as in normal
University practice, you apply for the approval of your budget in advance of your spending.
Second, if your funding is approved, you claim the receipt-based expenses incurred after the
event or training has occurred. For more information about funding criteria and processes
please see the RSF2 application form.
2.3.3 Links to University policies and regulations
Student Charter: http://www.keele.ac.uk/aboutus/studentcharter/ - the Charter sets out what you can expect of the University and our expectations of you.
Student-related regulations: http://www.keele.ac.uk/paa/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/universityregulations/student-relatedregulations/
Student Discipline procedures: http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentdiscipline/
Regulations on examinations and assessments: http://www.keele.ac.uk/regulations/regulation8/
Key University dates: http://www.keele.ac.uk/keydates/
University Policy on Late Submission of Assessed Work: http://www.keele.ac.uk/paa/academicadministration/policies/lateandfailuretosubmitwritte
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nwork/
2.3.4 Teaching Opportunities
There may on occasion be opportunities for students to contribute to teaching during the
course of their research degree. Such arrangements depend on the teaching needs of the
School, and are separate from arrangements relating to Graduate Teaching Assistants on
contracts. Any questions surrounding the allocation of teaching should be addressed to the
appropriate Head of School. Any concerns relating to the allocation of teaching
opportunities may be brought to the PGR Director for the Social Sciences.
2.3.5 Equipment Loans
The Faculty Research Office has a loan scheme for laptops, ipads and digital recorders. You
should contact the PGR Administrator on [email protected] specifying dates
required, so that availability may be checked.
Section 3: Keele University
3.1 Postgraduate Committees
The Research Degrees Committee is chaired by Dr Jane Richardson and has responsibility for
ensuring that good standards in line with the Code of Practice are maintained in
postgraduate research matters. RDC considers and the appointment of examiners,
extensions and examiners reports, among other key matters. RDC meets four times per
academic year.
The University Postgraduate Research Committee is chaired by the Pro-Vice Chancellor for
Research and Enterprise, Professor David Amigoni, and is responsible for the oversight and
development of postgraduate research across the University. It meets thrice annually.
The University Student Liaison Committee is chaired by the Pro Vice Chancellor for
Education and Student Experience, Professor Fiona Cownie, and meets four times per year.
All Research Institutes/Research Offices are invited to send a representative to the meetings.
3.2 Planning and Administration Directorate
The Planning and Administration Directorate is the primary administrative department,
which supports postgraduate research students and programmes, and the processes and
procedures regulating them. It is also the principal central source of information about
research student and degree matters, ensuring that information for all parties is accessible,
clear, accurate, comprehensive and up-to-date. The Directorate manages the initial
application, enrolment and registration processes, maintains student records, and manages
the examination process.
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3.2.1 Complaints and appeals procedure
A complaint is the expression of a specific concern about the provision of a service, either
academic or nonacademic, by the University. In all cases, you are strongly encouraged to
attempt to resolve a problem at the lowest level possible. A problem should initially be
made known to the member of staff who is most directly Planning and Academic
Administration Guidance for Student Handbooks in 2016/17 13 | Page concerned with the
issue: if the problem is explained to them they can often provide an immediate explanation
or solution. If this does not lead to a solution, or it is not appropriate to discuss the issue
with the member of staff, there are further steps you can follow to see if a problem can be
resolved: Early Resolution Every School and Service within the University has an Early
Resolution Officer (and at least one Deputy) to act as a first point of contact for students
experiencing issues with an academic or non-academic service. If you have attempted to
resolve a problem direct with the member(s) of staff involved but believe it has not been
resolved, you can contact the relevant Early Resolution Officer. Email addresses and contact
details for Early Resolution Officers are provided in the Early Resolution section at:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentcomplaints/ Formal Complaint If Early Resolution of a
problem has been attempted but has not lead to a satisfactory solution, you can submit a
formal complaint. You may also wish to submit a formal complaint where Early Resolution
has not been attempted due to the issues being serious or complex in nature. Details on this
process and how to submit a formal complaint are provided here:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentcomplaints/ A student may raise a concern for early
resolution normally no later than eight weeks after the event concerned. In cases where it is
not appropriate, or where a student does not choose to enter into early resolution, then the
eight week deadline after the event applies for submission of a formal complaint. For further
information on how to submit a complaint please refer to the guidance and regulations
which can be found on the website at: http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentcomplaints/ 23.
Location of other documentation (e.gYou can also use the PGR student representatives as a
channel of communication between you and staff. If any student has concerns that they do
not wish to raise personally, the representative can raise them anonymously.
Formal decisions made about matters such as doctoral progression, requirements to
withdraw or award following examination, may be appealed on particular grounds.
Academic disagreement is not a ground for appeal, but a failure to consider extenuating
circumstances would be. General information about appeals procedures is available here
http://www.keele.ac.uk/paa/studentappealscomplaintsandconduct/
The appeals procedure for research degree decisions and information about the potential
outcomes of an appeal is in section 4.4 of the Code of Practice.
3.3 Educational, welfare and social supports
3.3.1 The Learning and Professional Development Centre runs workshops and programmes
that cater for the needs of postgraduate research students. Please see
http://www.keele.ac.uk/lpdc/research/ If you wish to attend any of the courses as part of
your research training, you should book using your Keele IT login.
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3.3.2 Library
The University Library’s mission is to provide effective access to all forms of academic
information in support of the University's teaching, learning and research.
We have two Library sites, the main Campus Library and the Health Library at the University
Hospital of North Staffordshire (UHNS). We offer over 1,100 study spaces and extensive
opening hours - the Campus Library is open 24/7 during semester and the Health Library
seven days a week all year (except bank holidays). Students can work in a variety of study
environments, ranging from group to silent study, and can also book rooms for either
purpose. There’s also a refreshment area in the Campus Library, and WiFi access is available
on both our sites.
Our academic collections are provided both online and in print. We subscribe to around
20,000 e-journals, 300,000 e-books and have over 600,000 items on our shelves. Students
can access many reading lists online, and our "Catalogue Plus" service can be used to find
relevant information both in print and online via a single easy-to-use web catalogue. Books
can normally be borrowed for two weeks, one week or one day, depending on demand for
the title. Students can get help from our staff at the Library’s InfoPoint, and throughout the
year. Liaison Librarians provide an extensive range of training tailored to help students with
their research and information skills.
Find out more about our services from our website: http://www.keele.ac.uk/library/.
Accessing e-journals off campus - Access to Keele's e-resources is through your Keele
username and password. When you reach the journal home page, look out for a link called
“institutional log-in” or "Shibboleth log-in", select the UK Federation and then Keele
University and log in using your IT Account username and password (the log-in you use to
access the Campus network) when you reach the usual yellow Keele log-in screen.
Visit http://www.keele.ac.uk/library/support/access/ for more information, including our
Off-campus Access Step by Step guide and a series of short you-tube videos to assist with
off-campus log-ins to each individual publisher.
3.3.3 Student Support and Well Being
Whilst we know that you will have a great experience at Keele, there are likely to be times
when you need support, advice or just somebody to talk to. At Keele there are specialist and
professional student support and wellbeing services and staff who are in place to offer such
support if and when you need it. Take the time now, to familiarise yourself with these
services, and if at any point you feel like you need some help or want somebody to talk to
then don’t hesitate to ask, that's what we are here for.
Student Services Centre - The Student Services Centre should be your first stop for Academic
advice, Exams Information, timetabling queries, Electives information, Money Support,
Support in Accommodation, Disability and Dyslexia Support, International Student Support,
Critical Incident Support, and Personal Issues, i.e. Bullying, Homesickness etc. Staff in the
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Centre are experienced in dealing with a wide range of issues and will work with you to
resolve any issues or concerns that you have at any point during your time here at Keele.
Visit: http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentservices
Mental Health Support - Your wellbeing is of paramount importance to us. As such we ask
that should you need to, that you talk to us but also engage with the Counselling and Mental
Health Support service. The team of trained and specialist professionals are all committed to
providing effective, sensitive support and specifically understand the challenging
experiences that students and young people often face.
http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentcounselling/
Careers and Employability - Whilst starting a career may seem a long way into the future, the
Careers and Employability Team are an excellent source of information, advice and support
for students throughout their Keele experience (and beyond). If at any stage you want to get
your CV looking great, want to meet employers or are uncertain of what to do after you
graduate then get in touch with them and talk things through. Visit:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/careers/ or pay them a visit in the Library, where they are based. To
find out more about all of the services above go to www.keele.ac.uk/studentservices
Keele Mentors Scheme Staff in the Student Services Centre also co-ordinate the Keele
Mentors Scheme, which is open to all new students. For more information about Keele
Mentors and to sign up online go to: http://www.keele.ac.uk/keelementors/. Advice and
Support at Keele (ASK) Planning and Academic Administration Guidance for Student
Handbooks in 2016/17 6 | Page Located on the ground floor of KeeleSU (the Students’
Union), ASK delivers independent advice on a whole range of issues, including academic,
health, family, wellbeing, accommodation, finance, legal, international and employment. The
advice and support that ASK offers is free, confidential, non-judgemental and impartial. Our
trained Education and Welfare Advisors are here to help, just ASK. For more information,
please visit www.keelesu.com/advice or come and see us between Mon-Fri 10.00am to
12.30pm and 1.00pm to 4.00pm.
3.3.4 Language Learning Unit (LLU)
Modern Languages Electives – Languages for All As language skills are increasingly seen as a
‘must-have’ in graduates, all students are encouraged to learn a new language or enhance
their existing language skills by taking one or more of the LLU’s 15-credit elective modules in
Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Russian and Spanish, offered
from absolute beginners to advanced level. For further details please see
keele.ac.uk/llu/modernlanguages or contact the LLU at [email protected].
3.3.5 English Language Support for International students Individual and group language
guidance and assistance is available to international students at all levels - from Foundation
Year to PhD researchers; beginners to near-native speakers - from the LLU’s English
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Language Unit (ELU). Credit-bearing Academic English modules help international
undergraduate and postgraduate students develop the skills essential to succeed with their
studies, and year-round ‘One-to-One’ tutorials ensure asneeded, personalised English
language support. Incoming non-native English speaking international students on taught
programmes will take a diagnostic ELU language assessment during their first weeks at
Keele, after which personalised recommendations for modules or other forms of English
Language support are made. To contact us, email [email protected], or for more information
see keele.ac.uk/llu/englishlanguage/. To book a 30-minute ‘One-to-One’ see
keele.ac.uk/llu/englishlanguage/supportforinternationalstudents/.
3.3.5 Student Lead Support
The Keele Postgraduate Association (KPA) http://www.keele.ac.uk/sukpa/ is the body
responsible for promotion of the general interests of postgraduate students and for giving a
recognized channel of communication between postgraduate students and the University
authorities. It provides additional support services geared to the needs of postgraduate
students, and has elected officers including Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Welfare Officer, and
both Postgraduate Research Degree (PGR) and Postgraduate Taught Course (PGT)
representatives from each Faculty. They also offer a bar, hot and cold food, lounge and TV,
pool table, meeting room and computer resource area. They also organize special events.
You can find KPA directly behind the Students Union building at the entrance to Horwood
Hall.
Keele University Students’ Union (KUSU) is responsible for promoting the general interests
of all students (including postgraduates) and, again, gives a recognized channel of
communication between students and the University authorities. KUSU provides a variety of
support services such as Advice and Support at Keele (ASK), and elected officers who can
help students with academic and welfare advice.
Section 4: Starting out
4.1 Meeting your supervisor
The first few meetings with your supervisors should cover the main ground rules for
supervision and for completion of a research degree. Discussions normally include the
following:
The nature of research and the concept of originality
The importance of independent thinking
Timescales for different milestones in the research as well as overall timescales
Expected commitment to the research programme by the student in terms of length of
the working day or week
The nature and extent of assistance the supervisors will provide
21
The roles of different supervisors, if applicable
Scheduling of supervisory meetings
Facilities and resources available to the student
Planning and time management
Record keeping
Identify specific research training needs and suitable training modules/courses
How progress will be monitored and managed
Once you have agreed on your research programme, this should be reflected in your
Personal Development and Learning Plan.
4.2 Personal Development and Learning Plan
Students are required to develop and maintain a Personal Development and Learning Plan;
http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/studentforms/. A Learning Plan is
designed to enable you to reflect on your knowledge and skills to date and to plan for the
acquisition and practice of new techniques, methods and research processes. It is common
for professional researchers to devise a plan for the conduct of research and to revise and
update that plan as research progresses. Maintaining a Learning Plan is partly about making
your expectations more explicit, and partly about practising planning and reporting
processes. Your initial Learning Plan should be discussed with your supervisor in time to
finalise and submit within the first 6 weeks (12 weeks part-time) of your PhD, that is by 14th
November for full time students, or 23rd December for part-time students if you begin your
programme at the end of September.
The PDLP sets out an agreement between the student, the Lead Supervisor and the
Director/Associate Director of Postgraduate Research about the learning needs of the
student and how these are to be met. It includes a statement of training, resources and
strategies required for the student to be successful, and it provides a formal record of
research training modules taken and passed. Students are asked to keep a dated record of
activities undertaken in relation to their research degree programme, which should be
updated on a regular basis and be accessible to your supervisor. Updated learning plans and
progress reports are requested every six months.
4.3 Research training
Research training for research students is an integral part of a research degree programme,
as set out in Regulation 2D of the Code of Practice. Students initially registered prior to 1st
August 2013 must take approved Research Training modules to meet the formal minimum
modular credit requirements for research training. Students initially registered on or after 1st
August 2013 must meet the minimum subject-specific training requirements set by their
Faculty, and the institutional requirement to engage with personal development and
22
employability skills training at a level at least consistent with Research Council expectations.
More detailed information and guidelines on Research Training are provided in the Research
Training Handbook.
Students initially registered prior to 1st August 2013 must take approved Research Training
modules to meet the formal minimum modular credit requirements for research training. All
approved Research Training modules are available to all research students. Modules should
be selected on the basis of need, as discussed with the Lead Supervisor and recorded in the
Personal Development and Learning Plan. Any individual module may be seen as developing
either transferable and employability (generic) skills or subject-specific research skills,
depending on the needs of the student and the nature of the research project. Students may
take additional Research Training modules as considered appropriate provided this is agreed
in advance with the Postgraduate Committee. Formal research training is a compulsory part
of your research degree programme. MPhil students are required to complete 20 credits of
research training, while PhD students are required to complete 60 credits of research
training. PhD students usually do 40 credits worth of research training in their first year, as
40 credits is a requirement of Doctoral Progression. The final 20 credits are usually
undertaken in the second year. Research training should incorporate a balance between
subject-specific skills and generic skills.
Subject specific skills correspond to Domain A in the Researcher Development Framework
(RDF), see https://www.vitae.ac.uk/researchers-professional-development/about-the-vitae-
researcher-development-framework/developing-the-vitae-researcher-development-
framework/ They concern the knowledge, intellectual abilities and techniques to do
research. Courses which familiarise you with theoretical approaches (e.g. Philosophy of
Social Science), relevant literatures and processes (e.g. Research Design and Process) or
methodological techniques (e.g. Qualitative Research Methods) are subject specific in this
sense.
Generic skills are those skills which concern personal effectiveness, research governance and
organisation, and engagement, influence and impact; and correspond to Domains B, C and D
of the RDF respectively. Courses which enhance your skills and understanding in project
management, presentation, research ethics, and dissemination, are generic in this sense. In
practice, most postgraduate courses combine both subject-specific and generic skills, even if
they put more emphasis on one dimension.
The modules are assessed, in the main, via the completion of coursework. Usually this takes
the form of essays of between 3,000 and 5,000 words. In some cases (for example, Research
Skills), this is replaced with a requirement for the student to produce a Research Portfolio
and Personal Development Plan. In Quantitative Data Analysis II an open-book examination
is usually part of the assessment. All coursework is blind double-marked and for subjects
where it is essential that subject-specific benchmarks are adhered to (e.g. Research Design &
Process and Research Skills), are marked by a module leader or co-leader and an individual
who is familiar with the requirements for that particular subject area.
23
What happens if I fail a module?
Provided you have engaged appropriately with your studies during the academic year, you
would normally be allowed one reassessment opportunity to pass the module, normally to
be completed before the start of the next academic year, with the reassessment mark
capped at a maximum of 40%. Core module must be passed within the maximum allowed
two attempts in total, but failed elective modules may be replaced with an alternative
elective module. Students who have entered Level 4 study from September 2013 onwards
and who, after undertaking reassessment, have failed just one 15-credit module at either
Level 4 or Level 5 with a mark of at least 30, will have that module mark condoned, meaning
that 15 credits will be awarded for that failed module. This is provided the failed module
mark is not deemed to be a qualified fail, where one or more assessment components within
the module have not been completed to a specified standard. For more information on re-
assessment of failed modules, see the University's Regulations 1A 11 and 12.
4.3.1 Extenuating circumstances (on research modules)
If your personal circumstances are affecting your studies then you should speak with your
Personal Tutor or School as soon as possible to see if any arrangements can be made. If it is
deemed necessary then you may have to submit a claim for extenuating circumstances. It is
in your best interests to speak with someone as quickly as possible, and certainly before any
assessment deadline or exam. If you leave it too late then it may be more difficult to give
you the necessary help. You should also not wait until you receive your end of year results
and then decide to ask for extenuating circumstances to be taken into account as this will
not be allowed. Detailed information on extenuating circumstances criteria, the claims
process and evidence requirements can be found in the “Extenuating Circumstances Guide
to Students” which can be downloaded from: http://www.keele.ac.uk/ec/
4.3.2 Academic Appeals – Modules
Your final module marks, are confirmed by a Board of Examiners. s. It may be possible, in
exceptional circumstances, to appeal against the outcome using the Academic Appeals
process. The reason for your appeal must be based on one of the following: a procedural
irregularity in the conduct of the assessment or the academic warnings procedure;
extenuating circumstances, providing that these circumstances were not already considered
by an Extenuating Circumstances Panel, that these circumstances can be substantiated in
accordance with University guidelines of admissible evidence, and that there is a reason
deemed valid by the University for Planning and Academic Administration Guidance for
Student Handbooks in 2016/17 11 | Page not notifying the relevant Extenuating
Circumstances Panel by the specified deadline in accordance with the relevant provisions of
Regulation 8. For more information, please visit http://www.keele.ac.uk/appeals/
4.4 Academic Misconduct
Refers to a number of situations where you might attempt to gain an advantage for yourself
and/or another student by doing something that goes against University Regulations. This
24
could refer to your conduct during assessments, coursework, and exams. The University
takes any breach of the regulations seriously, and in a minority of cases students are
required to withdraw from Keele. It is important that you understand the University’s
guidelines and you should speak with your Personal Tutor if you have any queries.
4.4.1 Exam Regulations
It is important that students are familiar with the exam regulations. If you don’t abide by the
regulations, you may be given a penalty, which could impact on your marks and your degree
classification. The exam regulations concern all aspects of cheating in exams, including:
taking unauthorised notes into exam halls; using unauthorised calculators and other
equipment; talking during exams; using a mobile phone or other communication device
during exams. For more guidance, please read the information on examination conduct at:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentacademicconduct/
4.4.2 Plagiarism
Plagiarism, which is the most common type of academic misconduct, occurs when the work
you are submitting is not your own, but in fact somebody else’s. (Schools to add their own
information, which may include reference to the central resources and guidance that are
available on the web at: http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentacademicconduct/
http://www.keele.ac.uk/turnitin)
4.5 External Examiners – Research Modules
External Examiners are experienced academics from other institutions or professional
practitioners with significant expertise in their field. Their role is to provide an independent
assessment that appropriate standards are maintained in Keele’s academic awards in
comparison with other universities in the UK. Planning and Academic Administration
Guidance for Student Handbooks in 2016/17 12 | Page Their duties involve approving
examination papers, checking that marking has been carried out consistently and within the
regulations, advising on changes to programme content and writing an annual report.
Schools share the reports with students, usually in SSLC meetings, and you can find the latest
reports, along with a response from the School, here:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/qa/externalexaminers/reportsandresponses/. NB: you must not
contact external examiners directly as they have no remit in relation to individual students.
The list of current External Examiners for each subject can be found here:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/qa/externalexaminers/currentexternalexaminers/
External Examiners Thesis – Please see Vivas (6.2)
4.6 Exemptions
Exemptions from research training requirements may be made for students who have
already successfully completed the whole or parts of an equivalent research training
programme. Students are required to apply for exemption using the form available at:
25
http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/studentforms/
You should discuss with your supervisor if an application for exemptions is appropriate and
complete the form with an attachment of the transcripts. If the course has been taken at
Keele, transcripts will not be required.
4.7 Attending research seminars and annual conference
Students are encouraged to participate fully in the research life of the Faculty by attending
research seminars and student conferences Research events are a key way to find out about
cutting-edge research that is in process. They also provide an opportunity to observe
different styles of research presentation and dialogue. Details are regularly circulated via
email. You can also add our research events calendar to your Keele Google calendar by
having your Google mail account open, opening another web browser/webpage tab, visiting
this webpage:-
http://www.keele.ac.uk/humssr/newsandevents/calendarofevents/
and clicking the +google calendar button just below our imported google calendar.
4.8 Attendance Monitoring
At postgraduate level the majority of your interactions with academics will be through
supervisory meetings. It is very important that you attend all your classes for relevant
modules and supervisory meetings, and any non-attendance will be monitored. If you have a
valid reason for not attending you must notify the relevant academic member of staff as
soon as possible. All details of attendance monitoring required by the Faculty will be
circulated by email.
It is very important that you attend all your classes and supervisory meetings; any non-
attendance will be monitored. If you have a valid reason for not attending a class then you
need to notify your School as soon as possible. Any non-attendance without good cause will
result in an informal warning from your School. If you continue to miss classes then the
University will take this very seriously and it may result in you being withdrawn from your
studies. Planning and Academic Administration Guidance for Student Handbooks in 2016/17
8 | Page Information on University procedures for issuing academic warnings can be found
at: http://www.keele.ac.uk/paa/academicwarnings/ There is an expectation that students
will engage appropriately with all forms of University assessments. If you do not attend your
exams or fail to hand in assessments then you may be affected by Regulation 1A Section 9:
Appropriate Engagement with Studies. This regulation states that any non-engagement
without good cause may result in you being withdrawn from your studies:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/regulations/regulation1aafter0910/#d.en.19127
4.9 Thinking about Research Ethics
If your project involves research with human subjects, including interviews or
questionnaires, then part of your research planning involves thinking about the ethics of
producing and using data gained from other people. In order for your respondents to be
26
able to make an informed judgement about whether they want to participate in your
project, they need to have some basic information about the project. You also need to think
about anonymisation procedures and how you might enable your respondents to withdraw
consent if they change their minds. Good research practice will address such ethical issues
clearly as a matter of course, so the main issue in the beginning stages is preparation of clear
information about the parameters of your project. This will make the process of applying for
ethical review easier when you get to that stage (see 5.4 below).
Section 5: Making progress
5.1 Progress Reports
The Faculty monitors the progress of their postgraduate students in order to help ensure
timely completion and provide support when it is needed. At six monthly intervals, you and
your supervisors are required by the University to report formally on progress and to outline
future plans. Progress report forms should be returned as soon as possible and in any case
by the dates below:
progress report forms issued during February must be returned by the end of March
progress report forms issued during September must be returned by the end of October
It is the responsibility of the Faculty Research Office to manage and monitor the progress of
research students. It is the joint responsibility of supervisors and students to complete
progress and report forms in a comprehensive and accurate manner, and these forms are
kept under review by the Faculty PGR Committee and Research Committee.
Students’ progress is graded A-E, with A being excellent and E being unsatisfactory. The first
E grade will act as a warning to the student and the Postgraduate Office will send a formal
warning letter to the student. If the next report is also graded E, a recommendation may be
made to the University’s Research Degrees Committee that the student be required to
withdraw. If the student’s progress is not satisfactory, the supervisor will explore the
difficulties further in conjunction with the Postgraduate Committee to decide on appropriate
action(s).
The Full grading structure is as follow:
A = Excellent
B = Good
C = Satisfactory
D = Fair/Adequate
27
E = Unsatisfactory
5.2 Profession and Statutory Body requirements
Students on Professional Doctorate courses should refer to the course handbook for
guidance on professional issues.
5.3 Proofreading guidance
If you decide that you would like someone to proofread your work or you wish to use a
proofreading company it is very important that you read the document ‘Proofreading - a
Guide for Students.’ Failure to follow the guidance in this document, if you have your work
proofread, could result in you being found guilty of academic misconduct due to you having
unpermitted assistance. The proofreading guidance document can be downloaded from the
website at: http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentacademicconduct/.
5.4 Applying for ethical approval
Good research is ethical research. All staff and students are required to plan and conduct
their research in accordance with appropriate ethical standards. Staff should ensure that
they have knowledge of any relevant disciplinary guidelines on research ethics and that any
research with human subjects has the required approval by a Keele University Ethical Review
Panel or other relevant body. For example, research projects involving staff or patients in the
National Health Service (NHS) are required to undertake peer review (through Nicola
Leighton in the Directorate of Engagement and Partnerships) and local research ethics
committee (LREC) approval.
Applications must be made for ethical review before any research is conducted, even pilot
research projects. Students should be aware that each study in a larger piece of research is
likely to require separate ethical approval, since the ERP requires sight of details of
materials, measures, design and so on in many cases. A standard form is available from the
Directorate of Engagement and Partnerships website along with further guidance on ethics:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/researchsupport/researchgovernance/researchethics/ The
Research Councils (e.g. ESRC) and professional associations (e.g British Psychological Society)
have their own codes of conduct for ethics in research, which will also be helpful in
preparing your research.
It can take more than one attempt to get ethical approval for your research. In order to best
prepare you for this important step, it is recommended that you enrol on one of the Ethics
training courses which are normally held during the first half of the academic year. There will
be a University session advertised through the Learning and Professional Development
Centre (http://www.keele.ac.uk/lpdc/research/), but also look out for Faculty-based
workshops in this area which will be circulated by email.
5.5 Process for Investigating Alleged Ethics Offences (regarding research
projects/dissertations)
Point 11.5 of Regulation 8 states ‘Student projects which involve the participation of human
28
subjects must not be undertaken without the prior approval of a School Student Project
Ethics Committee (or another Ethics Committee recognised for this purpose by the relevant
School)’. The implications for students who do not obtain ethical approval are as follows:
● Any offence that is deemed to be major will be automatically referred to the Student
Appeals, Complaints and Conduct Manager to be dealt with via the Academic
Misconduct Panel and the appropriate penalty imposed.
● Any offence that is deemed to be minor will be dealt with via the School Student
Project Ethics Committee and an appropriate penalty imposed at School level.
The process for investigating alleged offences at School level can be accessed via
http://www.keele.ac.uk/researchsupport/researchethics/ (section 4.1)
5.6 Progression and Results – Doctoral progression
Towards the end of your first year, normally at the 10-12 month (or 20-24 month part-time)
stage, there will be a formal progression process where you are required to show that you
have made appropriate progress in developing your project. Your Director of Postgraduate
Research will co-ordinate the reporting of your research progress, and appoint a panel to
assess your report. The chair should be a member of staff experienced in postgraduate
research education and is often the Director of Postgraduate Research. The panel may not
include members of the supervisory team, but supervisors may be present as observers with
agreement of the student and other panel members. Assessors will produce a written report
of the progression meeting. This will be sent to the Postgraduate Research Committee for
review and recommendation and onward transmission to the University’s Research Degrees
Committee for approval.
The recommendation to the University Research Degrees Committee via the Postgraduate Research Committee will be one of the following:
The student is suitable for doctoral study and may progress
The student is not yet suitable for progression and, following review, has been given a programme of work to complete over a period not exceeding 2 months (4 months part-time) at which time the student’s suitability for doctoral study will be reassessed.
The student is not suitable for doctoral study, but is suitable for masters level study, and should now be required to prepare a thesis for submission for a research masters degree
The student is unlikely successfully to complete a research degree and should be required to withdraw
The Records Office will inform students about the outcome of the Research Degrees
Committee’s consideration of the recommendation made by the Postgraduate Research
Committee.
5.7 Requests to transfer from MPhil to PhD
29
Any student wishing to change course from MPhil to PhD should make a formal request to
the Social Sciences Postgraduate Committee for permission to transfer from MPhil to PhD
and permission to submit for PhD progression.
The Committee will consider the following issue in relation to the request:
Does the student have the appropriate qualification and experience for the PhD
programme?
Is the scale and nature of the project appropriate for a PhD?
Is the student’s MPhil work to date likely to meet PhD progression criteria (see 3.6 of the
code of practice)?
Does the time spent and training completed on the MPhil meet, in part, PhD timescale and
training requirements?
What allowances should be made toward PhD requirements in light of the time, work and
training completed on the MPhil?
If the Committee find that the student meets the criteria for the PhD programme, the
student will be permitted to submit for PhD progression and a panel arranged. If the
student passes PHD progression the students record will be amended to record the change
of course approval, time allowance agreed, date of transfer and submission deadline.
5.8 Transfer from PhD to MPhil
Any student who wishes to transfer from PhD to MPhil should make a formal request to the
PGRC for permission to transfer from PHD to MPhil stating the reasons for the request and
the expected time to completion and submission of the MPhil thesis. This request may be
accompanied by a request to transfer to continuation status (see 3.8 and Annex A3 of the
code of practice) if appropriate. The time allowed to complete and submit the MPhil from
the transfer date shall not exceed the maximum continuation period (see 3.2.1 and
Regulation 2D) of 1 year for FT and 2 years for PT, and will normally be significantly less. Any
request for transfer that includes a submission date beyond that allowed for MPhil
(calculated from initial registration, see 3.2.1.5 and Regulation 2D), will be subject to
approval of an extension by the Research Degree Committee.
5.9 Leave of absence
Students are expected to take normal holidays and to absorb the effects of minor illness
during the course of their research programme. But if you need to take a minimum of
30
several weeks away from your studies in order to deal with illness, maternity or difficult
personal circumstances such as bereavement, you should apply for a Leave of Absence. A
Leave of Absence suspends your programme of study for the relevant time period, and has
the effect of moving your submission deadline to accommodate the leave period. Where
the leave of absence is for medical reasons medical evidence is required. A Leave of
Absence also typically suspends any relevant funding during the period of leave. Please see
code of practice 3.11. For students who have been awarded a funded studentship,
maternity leave (subject to the provision of the relevant MATB1 confirmation form) is
subject to payment for up to 6 months.
Due to UK Visas and Immigration regulations, International students cannot have a leave of
absence unless they leave the country during the relevant period. You will need to speak
with International Student Support regarding visa implications. If a Leave of Absence is
appropriate for your circumstances, it is recommended that you apply for a Leave of
Absence as soon as practicable. Please see
http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/studentforms/
5.9 Visas and Immigration
Any student who requires a visa to be in the UK or who has been granted a Tier 4 Student
Visa is bound by the UK Immigration rules. These rules also apply to students who may need
to extend their visa to complete their course at Keele University. If you choose to change
your course, extend your course by an addition year (for example for a work placement) or
need to repeat part of your course it is likely you will need to apply for a new Visa from
outside the UK at your own cost. The rules and requirements regarding your visa to study at
Keele are very strict and are underpinned by University Regulation 6. The University is duty
bound to report to the Home Office UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) on students who do
not adhere to their immigration conditions, which will result in their visa being cancelled.
Planning and Academic Administration Guidance for Student Handbooks in 2016/17 14 |
Page Examples of what is reported to the UKVI include: if you do not attend your classes,
supervisory meetings, checkpoints and meetings with Officers of the University; If you
choose to repeat or change your course; if you do not pay your Fees on time; if you do
not make satisfactory progress on your course; if you do not provide documentation when
requested by the University; if you do not keep your UK contact address up-to-date; if
you take a leave of absence or intermit from your studies; if you leave Keele University
during your course; if you exceed your working limits as stated on your visa; if you
withdraw or are withdrawn from your studies. Please note this is not an exhaustive list.
These requirements are subject to change in line with Immigration Law and the
requirements on the University as a Tier 4 sponsor by the UKVI. For more information please
refer to the immigration pages on the Keele University website: www.keele.ac.uk/visa
5.10 Pre-submission review
All students must undergo a pre-submission review at no later than 30 months (FT) or 60
months (PT). The pre-submission form (countersigned by your supervisor) must be
31
submitted to the Postgraduate Committee. Any cases that cause concern or suggest a
delayed submission, will be reported to the Research Degree Committee, which will take
appropriate action. The relevant form is available at the following wepage:-
http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/studentforms/
5.11 Continuation
Students may become eligible for continuation at the 36 mth FT or 72 mth PT stage. In order
to transfer registration to continuation status, PGR Directors and the Postgraduate Research
Committee must be satisfied (a) that the student will submit the thesis within 12 months for
full time or 24 months for part time and (b) that the work still required to be completed up
to submission of the thesis is such that it can be satisfactorily completed using only the
following level of resources:
Minimal supervision, primarily related to reading and commenting on revised draft
thesis chapters
Access to the library and other facilities available through Keele Information Services
Use of hot desk and computing facilities
If additional resources are required, particularly project-related resources or a higher level of
supervision (intensive feedback, fieldwork review, completion of ethical review), then the
Postgraduate Research Committees cannot recommend registration as a continuation
student. However, in these circumstances, students may be permitted to change to part-
time registration subject to visa status. Progress to continuation status requires a formal
application. http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/studentforms/
Section 6: Submitting your thesis
The thesis is the document, which forms your examination submission. It is on this basis that
examiners will determine whether you have fulfilled the criteria for the award. Therefore
from the outset you should ensure that you are familiar with the relevant award criteria, and
when writing your thesis aim to demonstrate that you have fulfilled them.
The thesis is also a description of your research project, its definition, purpose, methods,
results and conclusions. It needs to be a self-contained work which places your project in
context and then sets out in a coherent and logical way how and why you pursued the
project in the way you did, what new results or data were obtained, or how you developed
your arguments and theories, and what conclusions you draw from them. Examiners will
look carefully at the methods you have used and whether they are appropriate to the
project.
As mentioned at the outset, the PhD thesis should provide evidence of originality. Originality
may be in terms of a previously unexplored field or topic (or aspect thereof), or may consist
in a new analysis of previous findings or a new interpretation of events.
32
The regulations for structure and presentation of the thesis can be found in the Code of
Practice on Postgraduate Research Degree Annex D4 You should refer to the website for
updates. The submission of your thesis is an important process in education and
publication. Therefore you will be expected to demonstrate careful attention to the detail of
structure and presentation, as well as to substantive content.
You will be required to provide a declaration that your final thesis is an account of your own
work. The Code of Practice includes an extensive section on Plagiarism and Academic
Dishonesty. Please ensure that you have read and understood this information. If anything is
unclear, seek clarification from your supervisor. Please note that any serious cases of
academic dishonesty are referred by the Research Institute to the University, which will then
investigate the case further.
6.1 Finalising your title
Before submitting your thesis you must submit a title to the Faculty Research Office via your
supervisor, for approval, 3 to 6 months prior to submission. For full-time PhD students, this
is normally during the third postgraduate year, after consultation with your supervisor.
When the thesis is submitted the wording on the title page must be identical to that
approved. The substitution of 'the' for 'a', or changing the case of a letter, will not be
allowed. Please note that the regulations specify a maximum of 20 words and do not allow
capital letters unless they apply to proper nouns. The ‘Approval of Title’ Form is available at:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/humssr/currentstudents/usefulinformation/
6.2 Appointing examiners
Supervisors are expected to nominate 2 examiners, after consultation with the student, 3-4
months before submission is due. The nomination is processed by the Faculty Research
Office and is subject to RDC approval. There will usually be 1 external examiner and 1
internal examiner, but in certain circumstances e.g. where the student is a member of staff,
2 external examiners will be required. Examiners need to be an authority on the relevant
subject matter and need to have experience of PGR supervision and examination. It is usual
to refer to key publications as evidence of the examiners research expertise, and to identify
the numbers of students they have supervised and examined. The approval process also
requires the nomination of an independent chair who will oversee the viva. Please see the
relevant form (C3) at: http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/studentforms/
6.3 Meeting the submission deadline
It is very important to meet your official submission deadline (a maximum of 4 years FT or 8
years PT after your initial registration) as evidence of good research practice. Students’
timely completion rates are also taken into account by the University’s external funders and
may affect funding to future students. Late unauthorised submissions are not permitted. If
an extension is required this must be applied for in good time and cannot be guaranteed.
6.4 Requesting an extension
33
If you have good reasons for being unable to meet your submission deadline, you may apply
for an extension this must be done prior to the date of the RDC before your actual
submission date. Extensions will only be granted where there is clear evidence of
extenuating circumstances e.g. illness, which compromised your ability to complete on time.
Research Degrees Committee may refuse to grant an extension if the evidence or reasons
are inadequate. If you are granted an extension, this means that you are allowed to submit
late. The relevant form is available at:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/studentforms/
6.5 The Viva
The viva consists of a question and answer session where your examiners will ask you to
defend your thesis. Typically they will ask you to explain your key argument and how it is a
contribution to knowledge. They are also likely to ask you specific questions on aspects of
your thesis. The viva is part of the doctoral award process and provides a key further
opportunity for you to explain and develop your work.
The examiners write independent and confidential reports, which they submit to the
University before the viva or oral exam. After the viva examination the examiners agree a
joint report. They may make one of the recommendations listed in the Code of Practice on
Postgraduate Research Degrees. See Annex A2 of the Code of Practice, available at:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/research/currentpgrstudents/codeofpractice/
Both the separate and the joint reports are submitted confidentially to the University's
Research Degrees Committee, which decides the final outcome. After the examination
process is complete, copies of all examiners’ reports will be sent to the student, the
supervisor and the PGR Director. Please note that the expectation is that the whole
examination process from submission to receipt of a joint report should take 3 months.
6.6 Resubmission of Thesis
If you are required to resubmit your thesis, a plan of action and timescale should be agreed
with your supervisor and signed by the PGR Director. There is a maximum period of
resubmission, which is two years and a resubmission fee of £300 is payable prior to
resubmission of your thesis.
Section 7: Health and Safety
7.1 Health and Safety at Work
Most research covered by theFaculty does not involve hazardous situations
or materials. However, it does involve long periods using VDUs, microfilm readers, and
so on. You should be aware of the potential damage that these may cause, and you are
advised to read the University’s policy on workstations and VDUs at:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/dohs/a2z/workingwithvdus/
34
The University is committed to providing a healthy and safe environment for students. If
you notice anything that may cause an accident you must report it immediately to the
PGR Administrator, and also, as most research is undertaken in buildings used by the Faculty
of Humanities and Social Sciences, to the Faculty’s Business Manager, Carol
Hough ([email protected]).
Emergencies
On discovering fire – always raise the Alarm at once. Operate the nearest fire alarm
call point and leave the building and report to the nearest fire assembly point. Always
alert the Fire Service at once from a safe location (e.g. another building) by telephone,
key 9-999. Telephone a member of the internal security staff on 888 to inform of the
location of fire.
Each University building in which research students reside will have a designated first aider.
Please check the relevant notices in your building.
You have a responsibility to ensure that your actions do not endanger the health and
safety of others. Please ensure that you know how to raise the alarm in case of fire by
reading notices on fire safety posted throughout the building. If you are evacuated from
the building please follow instructions from fire marshals. Do NOT re-enter the building
until you receive authorisation from a fire marshal.
You are also reminded that smoking is not permitted throughout the University
buildings.
7.2 Equality and Diversity statement
As a leading example of an open and integrated community Keele University strives to be a
place where learning, living and working is a positive experience for all. Equality and
Diversity is a core value underpinning the University’s mission. Our equality and diversity
vision is for a University and community that strives for: Equality of educational
opportunity; Valuing the rights, responsibilities and dignity of individuals through our
commitment to equality and diversity; Valuing probity and ethical behaviour. These values
will underpin everything that we do, helping to ensure that equality and diversity is
mainstreamed across the University and is evident in our day to day practice. Further details
of our work on Equality & Diversity can be found on the University website via:
http://www.keele.ac.uk/hrss/equalitydiversity/
7.3 Dignity & Respect Framework
Dignity and respect are at the heart of the core values of the University. Keele is a diverse,
inclusive and professional community that respects individuals and enables them to strive
for success in order to contribute positively and sustainably in the local region, wider society
35
and national economy. The purpose of the Dignity and Respect Framework is to translate
these strategic commitments into everyday working practice at Keele. There is a need to
define, in fairly flexible terms, what dignity and respect feels like and looks like. The
Framework aims to promote positive relationships by helping to focus and interpret these
mutual expectations within a complex and diverse organisation.
http://www.keele.ac.uk/media/keeleuniversity/hr/unity/Keele%20Dignity%20and%20Respe
ct%20Framework.pdf
36
Appendixes
Appendix 1: Further reading
There are a number of books that provide useful information about being a postgraduate
student and how to manage your research project. This is not a comprehensive list and
focuses mainly on publications relevant to UK PhDs. Sage and Open University Press publish
a range of titles on study skills.
Becker, Howard (1998) Tricks of the Trade: How to Think about your research while
you’re doing it. Chicago: University of Chicago Press [extract available at:
http://www.press.uchicago.edu/Misc/Chicago/041247.html]
Brown S, McDowell L, Race P (1996) 500 tips for research students. London: Kogan Page.
Graves N, Varma V (1997) Working for a Doctorate. London: Routledge.
Hart C (1998) Doing a literature review: releasing the social science research
imagination. London: Sage.
Murray, R. (2002) How to write a thesis. Maidenhead: The Open University Press
Murray, R. (2003) How to survive your viva. Maidenhead: Open University Press
Phillips E, Pugh DS (2004) How to get a PhD. Buckingham: Open University Press.
Rugg G and Petre M. (2004). The Unwritten Rules of PhD Research. Open University
Press, Maidenhead.
Silverman D (2000) Doing qualitative research: a practical handbook. London: Sage.
Thomas SA (2000) How to write health sciences papers, dissertations and theses.
Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone.
Wallace, M and Wray, A (2006) Critical reading and writing for postgraduates. London:
Sage.
Walliman N (2001) Your research project: a step-by-step guide for the first-time
researcher. London: Sage.
Appendix 2: Flow chart of key stages
37
Degree Application made to Keele University
Offer of a place letter sent to student and student returns Acceptance Form by e-mail to Faculty Research Office
Prior to starting, enrolment details are sent to student for return to Records and Exams, photo or
Doctoral Progression (report and meeting at the 10/12 months full time stage or part-time equivalent)
ipt of Enrolment Form and photograph the Student is registered for the course and a Keele card is produced
Every August/October: A Re-registration Form is sent via eVision (excludes
students on Leave of Absence (LOA) and those who have submitted their thesis
but includes those writing up)
Re-registration completed on eVision student continues on
course
Re-registration not completed
on eVision
Student is withdrawn
Pre-submission Review (30/60 months) Continuation - if conditions are met (36/72 months)
Approval of Title request to Faculty Research Office (at least 3 months prior to submission)
Submission of Thesis (together with completed Declaration Form)
Viva
Examination Reports sent to University Research Degrees Committee and Outcome of Examination letter sent to student
If Student required to resubmit
Student meets with supervisor within a month of notification of
award
Student re-submits thesis
On receipt of Enrolment Form and photograph the Student is
registered for the course and a Keele Card is produced
Following enrolment, the student meets with supervisor to begin
to write the Personal Development and Learning Plan (PDLP).
Every March/October an up to date PDLP and Progress Reports
are required from the student/supervisor.
Examination Reports sent to University Research Degrees Committee and Outcome of Examination letter sent to student
38
University Research Degrees Committee reports to Senate and examination result is confirmed
Thesis is lodged in the University Library (incorporating any revisions required by examiners) including electronic copy
Student invited to graduate
39
Appendix 3: Important Contacts within the HumSS Faculty Research
Office Postgraduate Research Administrators
Helen Farrell and Tracey Harrison
Claus Moser Research Centre (CM0.18)
Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01782 733641 (Helen) and : 01782
734256 (Tracey
Finance Administrators
Sue Humphries and Yvonne Lomax
Claus Moser Research Centre (CM0.24)
Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01782 734568
Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01782 734180
Faculty Research Development Manager
Mike Hession
Claus Moser Research Centre (CM0.04)
E-mail: [email protected] Telephone: 01782 734580
Postgraduate Research Directors
Professor Anthony Bradney (Director of PGR)
Chancellor’s Building (CBC2.022)
E-mail [email protected] Telephone: 01782 733018
Dr Anita Mangan (Associate Director of PGR, with specific responsibility for Economics
and Management)
Darwin Building (DW1.11)
E- [email protected] Telephone 01782 734380
Professor Christopher Bailey (Associate Director of PGR, with specific responsibility for
Politics, International Relations and the Environment)
Chancellor’s Building (CBA1.029)
E-mail [email protected] Telephone: 01782 733151
40
Professor Ronnie Lippens (Associate Director of PGR, with specific responsibility for Social
Policy until 15.1.16)
Chancellor’s Building (CBB1.023)
Email [email protected] Telephone: 01782 733263
Dr Mark Featherstone (Associate Director of PGR, with specific responsibility for Social
Policy from 15.1.16)
Chancellor’s Building (CBC0.014)
E-mail [email protected] Telephone: 01782 734179
Dr Yossi Nehushtan (Associate Director of PGR, with specific responsibility for Law, Ethics
and Society)
Chancellor’s Building (CBC1.027)
E-mail [email protected] Telephone: 01782 733862
Professor Steve Cropper (Associate Director of PGR, with specific responsibility for
Professional Doctorates, excluding DMedEth)
Chancellor’s Building (CBA1.060)
Email [email protected] Telephone 01782 733263
TBC Faculty Research Director
Claus Moser Research Centre (CM0.11)
E-Mail: Telephone: 01782 734599
