Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Program Overview

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Queen Margaret University's PhD program offers in-depth research training in various fields, equipping students with advanced research skills, critical thinking abilities, and the capacity to contribute independently to their chosen discipline. The program provides extensive support through individual supervision, doctoral development weeks, and a supportive community network, preparing graduates for diverse career opportunities and personal growth.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Objective:

Queen Margaret University (QMU) offers full-time (3 years) and part-time (6 years) PhD programs covering various research topics and approaches where QMU researchers hold expertise. The program aims to equip students with in-depth knowledge and skills in their chosen subjects, preparing them for career advancement or a change in direction.

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Description:

Completing a PhD involves conducting original research culminating in a significant piece of work with commercial, cultural, or social value. The program offers extensive support, including individual supervision, academic resources, doctoral development weeks, workshops, and a supportive community network. Successful completion opens doors to diverse career opportunities and personal growth.

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Benefits:

Participants gain advanced research proficiency, enhanced critical thinking, and the ability to independently contribute to their chosen field. The diverse community fosters collaboration, exploration, and mutual support.

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Outline:

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Content:

The program encompasses in-depth research in a chosen field aligned with faculty expertise. Students delve into research methodologies, advanced research skills training, research design, and thesis development while engaging with academic and professional development opportunities for holistic growth.

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Structure:

The program typically takes 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time. Doctoral development weeks focus on honing research skills, networking, and project progression. Additionally, QMU boasts membership in renowned organizations like the Scottish Graduate School of Social Science (SGSSS) and the Scottish Graduate School of Arts and Humanities (SGSAH), providing access to valuable resources like advanced training, internships, conferences, and summer schools.

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Schedule:

QMU offers flexible study options catering to full-time and part-time schedules. Participants can expect regular meetings with their supervisory team (monthly for full-time, bi-monthly for part-time) and an annual research review. Additional meetings are possible for further guidance if needed.

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Modules:

While the program focuses on original research in a chosen field, candidates are required to participate in doctoral development modules which are designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to be an independent researcher. This includes modules on research design, data analysis, ethics, and writing for publication amongst others.

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Assessment:

The PhD program uses two key assessment exercises to monitor progress towards thesis completion:

• Probationary Assessment (Year 1): An extensive research proposal (approximately 6,000 words) showcasing research skills is submitted alongside a researcher skills development report.
This is followed by a viva with expert research supervisors unconnected to the research topic.
• Assessed Seminar (Year 2 for full-time, Year 4 for part-time): Candidates present a paper or thesis chapter (3,000 words) outlining their study progress as well as plans for completion within the timeline.
This is presented at a seminar with the internal assessment panel who may question the progress and offer feedback.

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Teaching:

QMU provides PhD research supervision by experienced professionals with strong international networks and publication records. Each student is assigned a supervisory team for guidance throughout the program. QMU also offers opportunities to develop academic teaching skills alongside research expertise.

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Careers:

The University actively supports students throughout the program to prepare for future careers. These include opportunities to develop teaching skills within departments, and opportunities in research labs or industry partnerships.

• A small number of university-funded PhD bursaries for specific research topics can be applied for via the QMU website annually.