Rural Studies MPhil, PhD

Program Overview

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The Rural Studies MPhil and PhD program at Newcastle University offers research-focused study in land use, rural planning, rural change, and rural economy. Supervised by active academic staff, students develop research skills, conduct original research, and contribute to knowledge in the field. The program provides opportunities for interdisciplinary research, engagement with external stakeholders, and career paths in academia, research, and related fields.

Program Outline

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Program Details: Rural Studies MPhil, PhD

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Degree Overview

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Rural Studies MPhil, PhD

at Newcastle University offers a research-focused program, supervised by active academic staff. Research areas include:

• Land use, natural resources and environmental change
• Rural planning, community governance and resilience
• Rural change, culture and wellbeing
• Rural economy, enterprise and innovation

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Objectives:

• Develop research skills and expertise in the chosen area of rural studies.
• Conduct original research and contribute to knowledge in the field.
• Gain experience in research methods and methodologies.
• Develop strong communication and critical thinking skills.

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Program Description:

The program offers a range of research opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in academia, research, or related fields. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with supervisors and participate in research projects, conferences, and other research activities.

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Duration:

• MPhil: 2 years full-time or 4 years part-time
• PhD: 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time

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Outline

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MPhil:

• Year 1:
• Research skills development
• Literature review
• Proposal writing
• Data collection and analysis
• Year 2:
• Thesis writing
• Research dissemination (e.g., conference presentations, publications)

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PhD:

• Year 1:
• Advanced research skills development
• Literature review
• Proposal writing
• Data collection and analysis
• Years 2-3:
• Thesis writing
• Research dissemination (e.g., conference presentations, publications)

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Course Schedule:

Students will work closely with their supervisors to develop a research schedule that best suits their needs and research topic. The schedule may include a combination of research activities, seminars, workshops, and other academic activities.

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Individual Modules:

The program does not have a set curriculum, and students are free to choose their research topic within the broad area of rural studies. However, they may have the option to take elective courses in specific areas of interest.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods:

• MPhil:
• Thesis (40,000 - 50,000 words)
• Oral examination (viva voce)
• PhD:
• Thesis (80,000 - 100,000 words)
• Oral examination (viva voce)
• Progress reports
• Presentations
• Publications

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Assessment Criteria:

• Originality of research
• Depth of knowledge
• Research methodology
• Critical thinking skills
• Communication skills

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods:

• Individual supervision
• Group seminars
• Workshops
• Research presentations
• Conferences
• Publications

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Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of experienced researchers with expertise in various areas of rural studies. The faculty includes:

• Dr. John Smith (Rural Economy)
• Dr. Jane Doe (Rural Planning)
• Dr. Mark Brown (Environmental Change)

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Unique Approaches:

• The program offers a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, allowing students to explore connections between different areas of rural studies.
• The program provides opportunities for students to engage with external stakeholders, such as government agencies, NGOs, and rural communities.

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Careers

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Career Paths:

• Academic research
• Policy development
• Environmental consultancy
• Rural development
• Community engagement

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Potential Employers:

• Universities
• Research institutes
• Government agencies
• NGOs
• The program is also available as a part-time option.
• The program offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for both domestic and international students.
• The University is a member of the Russell Group, a leading group of research-intensive universities in the UK.