The majority of your time as a research degree student will be spent in self-directed study, with guidance from your supervisors. Indeed, the ability to conduct your own research and manage your own time accordingly is one of the key skills you will develop during your PhD.
While each degree timetable will vary, dependent on the actual nature of the project, you are expected to fit in with the following broad structure, which coalesces around a number of key milestones. Two modes of PhD study are accepted within the Institute of Dentistry:Full-time PhD: usually 3-4 years (max. 4 years)Part-time PhD: usually 6-7 years (max. 7 years)
A typical PhD structure is as follows (based on the usual full-time mode of study):Year one: The first year usually includes consolidating the ideas presented in your research proposal, undertaking a literature review and establishing an appropriate methodology for your research. You may also undertake preliminary experiments. You will also be expected to attend 70 hours of training courses over the year, prepare a poster for the annual Institute of Dentistry PhD Day and get involved in journal clubs or other collaborative postgraduate activities.
You will also have to pass a 9 month progression review.
Year two: this year will be spent conducting the major ‘research’ element of your degree. This may take the form of lab-work; gathering statistical data; or some other form of research, dependent on the nature of your project.
You will also have to pass an 18 month progression review.
Year three: this year is predominantly spent analysing the data collected in the second year and writing up the final chapters of your thesis.
You will also have to pass a 30 month progression review.
Year four: Some students may require a fourth year to complete their thesis. Please note that all full-time PhDs must be completed within four years from initial registration (seven years for part-time students).
Writing up status: If you have completed at least two years of study and your supervisors are able to confirm that you will submit within 12 months, you can apply to transfer to ‘writing up’ status. During ‘Writing up’ status QMUL do not charge tuition fees, on the understanding that you will no longer require access to full College resources and supervision. Note that ‘writing up’ can only last for a maximum of 12 months, even if you are a part-time student.
Throughout your degree, you are encouraged to take full advantage of the training opportunities available in the Insitute and QMUL for PhD students. These provide you with both the specific skills necessary to undertake your research and transferable skills that will be of benefit to you in your later career. More information on training is available by contacting DentistryPGR@qmul.ac.uk