Academic Regulations Part 6: Research Degree Regulations

Contents

32. General Research Degree Regulations

33. Research Candidate Transfer and Annual Progress Review

34. “Writing Up”, “Full Fee” and “Continuation” Status

35. Requirements of Thesis

36. Arrangements For The Examination of Research Degrees

32. General Research Degree Regulations

Central’s Research Degree Regulations are informed by the UKRI’s expectations for funded students, codified in the London Arts and Humanities Partnership Student Handbook, and the Regulations for University of London awards.

Registration

32.1 All candidates register initially for the MPhil. Candidates must ‘transfer’ to PhD registration (see 33.5-33.10 and Section 34 below). The only exceptions are special entrants who have commenced a relevant course of MPhil or PhD degree study at another institution. Such exceptions will be determined at interview stage.

32.2 The normal period of registration for a full-time research candidate is between three and four years (or between six and eight years part-time). The School allows for the following variation of this normal registration period:

32.3 The minimum period of registration for the degrees of MPhil and PhD (excluding agreed suspensions) shall be two calendar years of full-time study or four calendar years of part-time study.

32.4 The normal maximum period of registration is five calendar years of full-time study or ten calendar years of part-time study. This allows for up to two years of full-time study (or four years of part-time study) to take place as either a) Writing Up or b) Full Fee Registration (see Section 34).

32.5 In the unusual event of finding itself unable to deliver an agreed programme of study due to extreme circumstances beyond its control the School reserves the right to withdraw the offer of a place or – in consultation with the candidate – and where possible, to negotiate a candidate’s transfer to an alternative institution to complete their course of study.

Transfer from MPhil status to PhD status

32.6 The Transfer does not necessarily take place in addition to the normal cycle of formal review. It will normally occur within the first year of registration (or equivalent part-time).

32.7 The Transfer submission is normally made at the end of the third term of study (or equivalent for part-time Candidates). The formal Transfer Review normally takes the place of the first Annual Progress Review. If, at the normal point of Transfer Review, there are mitigating circumstances for why a candidate’s research has not progressed sufficiently to be ready for such review, it may be postponed upon application for an extension. In the case of a postponed Transfer Review the first Annual Progress Review should take place, give details of the reasons for delay, and set a date for the Transfer Review.

32.8 The Transfer from MPhil status to PhD status is managed internally by a transfer review panel, which submits a report to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee. The Research Degrees Sub-Committee operates as an Examination Board in approving progression or setting conditions.

32.9 Where the work is judged to be of an appropriate standard, the candidate will be registered for the PhD.

Mode of Study

32.10 Candidates are normally expected to continue on the same mode of study (full-time or part-time) throughout their period of research, however if changes to their circumstances necessitate different arrangements they should apply in writing to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee for a change in mode of study. The Committee’s decision in any such cases will be final.

Attendance

32.11 Full-time candidates are normally expected to devote 35 hours per week to their studies; part-time candidates are expected to devote a minimum of 16 hours per week (the equivalent of 2 days per week) to their studies.

32.12 Candidates should agree their holiday periods, up to a maximum of 8 weeks per year, with their supervisor. Any absence beyond this maximum should be reported to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee via the Research Degrees office.

32.13 Candidates should discuss offers of employment with their supervisors to ensure that their research activity is not compromised. UKRI expects that full-time students will not normally work in excess of six hours per week on average.

32.14 Candidates must fulfil the requirements of attending training sessions before their Transfer review, and are expected to continue to attend for at least ten days per year throughout their period of registration. Any concerns relating to attendance should be raised by the supervisor(s), and continued concerns may result, in extreme cases, in the candidate being required to permanently withdraw.

Residence

32.15 Candidates are normally expected to live within such travelling distance of the School as enables them to maintain regular contact with supervisors and attendance at training and other relevant activities and events. If a candidate’s research and/or personal circumstances necessitate more flexible or hybrid working, this should be discussed with their supervisor(s) and the Head of the Research Degrees Programme. However, candidates should expect to be available to attend some training activities, supervisions, and meetings in person.

Overseas Registration

32.16 Exceptionally, the School will permit a candidate to register with the School to undertake the majority of their research, “externally” to the School and to receive supervision remotely (i.e. online). This will normally be for those candidates whose research is based entirely outside of the UK. In such circumstances candidates will normally be expected to undertake the first year full-time (first two years part-time) at Central.

32.17 The Research Degrees Sub-committee will determine the arrangements for supervision but it will be expected that the Candidate will attend in person for a number of short periods of intensive supervision and research training meetings at the School over the period of the degree. In addition the formal transfer from MPhil to PhD, any performance practice assessment and the final viva voce examination for MPhil and PhD will be conducted at the School.

32.18 Candidates admitted to the School on this basis will normally be in the advanced stages of research having already undertaken part of their research at another institution.

Working while studying full-time

32.19 Candidates and supervisors are requested to follow best practice as set out in the UK Research and Innovation Research Council Training Grant Guide with regards to working while studying full-time, which stipulates that working of any kind (whether within, or external to, the School):

• should be compatible with, and not delay or interfere with, the research training;
• should be undertaken with supervision approval;
• should not interfere with the progress of the PhD;
• is recommended for no more than six hours in any week.

32.20 Candidates may be given the opportunity to contribute to teaching at the School through lecturing, demonstrating practical classes, project supervision, marking and taking tutorials, for example. All offers of teaching must be agreed with supervisors in writing. Teaching responsibilities within the School will be clearly defined in writing, must be compatible with a candidate’s research responsibilities, and never exceed an average of 6 hours in total per week. All candidates must be provided with appropriate training before commencing any teaching, and must be fairly paid for this work. When working as teachers, candidates are line-managed in that capacity by the Course Leader of the course on which they are teaching.

32.21 Candidates may be given the opportunity to undertake research assistance for staff on particular projects. This may include specialist data collection; indexing; researching visual material; minuting meetings and other administrative duties. Research assistant responsibilities within the School will be clearly defined in writing, must be compatible with a candidate’s research responsibilities, and never exceed an average of 6 hours in total per week.

32.22 Teaching and research assistant employment is normally only open to candidates entering their second or third year of study. The School reserves the right to restrict teaching in cases where it is considered to interfere with a candidate’s progress.

Break in Studies

32.23 Candidates should follow the School’s Break in Studies Procedures (see also section 7 of the General Regulations), as well as any expectations stipulated by funders. Under UKRI regulations, candidates are entitled to a maximum of one year of Break in Study during their period of registration (pro-rata for part-time candidates).

32.24 Candidates may apply for a Break in Study because of changes to their personal circumstances that limit their capacity to study, such as absence lasting longer than the maximum period of medical leave (see 32.26 below), or changes to their employment or caring responsibilities. Breaks in study cannot be arranged retrospectively, so candidates who anticipate needing a Break in Study should contact their supervisor(s) and the Research Degrees office immediately.

32.25 A period of suspension, for example for late payment of fees or in consequence of a disciplinary offence, will in no circumstances be treated as a Break in Studies, i.e. there will be no extension to the registration period in such cases.

Medical Leave

32.26 Candidates are entitled to up to 13 weeks of medical leave per year of registration, and up to 28 weeks for Covid-related illness. They must inform the Research Degrees office of the period of leave as soon as practicable, and provide a medical certificate to cover the entire period. The candidate’s submission deadlines will be moved automatically by the length of the medical leave (pro-rata for part-time candidates). Funded students will receive the full amount of their normal stipend for a period of up to 13 weeks’ medical leave per year of their registration. (London Arts and Humanities Partnership [LAHP]-funded students should also inform the LAHP of their period of leave). If a candidate’s medical leave lasts for more than the above-stated maximum, they will need to take a Break in Study (see 32.23-32.25, above).

Maternity, Paternity and Parental Leave

32.27 Candidates are entitled to maternity leave if they are due to give birth to a child; due to become the primary adopter of a child; or due to become the primary intended parent through a surrogacy arrangement. If a candidate fulfils these criteria, they should take leave for at least two weeks following the child’s birth or adoption, and may apply for leave for up to a maximum of 52 weeks, without reducing their entitlement to further Breaks In Study. The candidate’s period of registration will automatically be extended to reflect the period of leave taken.

32.28 If a candidate is funded (either through the AHRC or a Central studentship), and the expected week of the birth, adoption or surrogacy falls within their studentship period, they will be entitled to stipend payments during their leave. Candidates will receive their full normal stipend for the first 26 weeks of maternity leave, the next 13 weeks will be paid at a level commensurate with statutory maternity pay, and the final 13 weeks will be unpaid. For candidates not receiving a stipend, maternity leave will be unpaid.

32.29 In cases of still birth (defined here as a miscarriage after the 24th week of pregnancy) or baby death, a candidate will still be entitled to maternity leave as described here (for cases of miscarriage prior to the 24th week of pregnancy, the medical leave policy should be used). Candidates who have experienced miscarriage or still birth are advised to seek support from the Student Centre.

32.30 If a candidate is the partner of either the person who will give birth, or the primary adopter, or the primary intended parent through a surrogacy arrangement, and also has or expects to have responsibility for the child’s upbringing, they will be entitled to paternity leave. Candidates may apply for up to two weeks leave (taken in blocks of at least one week) through the Break in Study Procedures without reducing their entitlement to further Breaks in Study. Funded students will receive their full normal stipend for this period. If the candidate is not funded, this leave will be unpaid.

32.31 In addition to paternity leave, the partners of primary parents are entitled to an extended period of unpaid parental leave, up to a maximum of 50 weeks, which must be completed within 12 months of the birth or adoption of the child, provided that: they share responsibility for the child; the leave is requested in order to look after the child, and the terms and conditions of any studentship do not specifically exclude the taking of such leave. The candidate’s period of registration will automatically be extended by length of their period of leave.

32.32 For candidates in receipt of a Student or other visa, the obligation to permit 12 months’ leave for maternity/paternity leave and for medical leave and payment is subject to any restrictions on remaining in the UK, and payment of funding imposed by virtue of the legislation and guidance relating to the granting of the visa. Candidates to whom these restrictions may apply should contact the Student Centre for advice.

Extensions to Submission Deadlines

32.33 For the purposes of the Research Degrees Programme, an extension shall:

1. relate either to an interim deadline for submitting work for an annual or transfer review, or to an extended period of time that may, in exceptional circumstances, be added to the maximum registration of a candidate on the Research Degrees Programme;
2. be for reasons that are unforeseen and unpreventable;
3. be for a maximum of three months;
4. normally be requested at least one week in advance of interim deadlines, or at least three terms in advance of the end of the candidate’s maximum registration date.

32.34 Candidates should discuss circumstances with their supervisors and, if applicable, make a request for an extension in writing to the Chair of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee, who will convene a panel to review the request. Requests should be submitted to the Research Degrees office.

32.35 Extensions t will only be considered for unforeseen and unpreventable circumstances that significantly disrupt a candidate’s ability to submit work on time.

32.36 Only one extension will normally be granted for a submission through this process, although an additional extension may be considered if further unforeseen and unpreventable circumstances arise. The granting of an extension will also not affect candidates’ entitlement to other forms of leave (for example, for medical reasons), which will automatically be added to a granted extension.

32.37 Deadlines for work submitted as part of the process of supervision should be determined and approved locally by the supervision team.

Payment of fees / ‘Writing Up’

32.38 Fees are payable annually. However, where a candidate has completed the minimum registration period but not yet submitted their thesis, they may apply for ‘Writing Up’ status for the final year (or final 2 years for part-time Candidates). In such circumstances (and where agreed by the School), a reduced fee is payable.

English Language Proficiency

32.39 All candidates are required to satisfy the School’s standards for proficiency in the English language. However, if after arrival it becomes evident that the candidate’s English, despite having met the minimum requirements, is not satisfactory, they may be required to undertake English language tuition and a timetable for this should be agreed between the candidate and supervisors. The candidate will be required to pay for this tuition personally.

Code of Conduct

32.40 All candidates are required to abide by the Student Code of Conduct.

Academic Misconduct

32.41 Academic misconduct (including plagiarism, collusion or other examples as given in the Research Conduct and Ethics Handbook) will be investigated in accordance with the School’s Academic Misconduct Procedures and with reference to the UUK’s Concordat to support research integrity as appropriate.

Complaints and Appeals

32.42 Candidates who are unhappy with any aspect of their supervision should normally first contact the Head of the Research Degrees Programme. If this does not resolve the matter, they should refer to the School’s Academic Appeals and Student Complaints Procedures.

Research Candidate supervision

32.43 Each candidate will have two supervisors. These are assigned by the School at the point of an offer being made and will normally be internal members of School staff.

32.44 The School operates two models of supervision:

1. First and Second Supervision
2. Co-supervision

First and Second Supervision

32.45 In the First and Second Supervision model the team are both experienced supervisors. This is the normal model of supervision.

• The First Supervisor will undertake a supervision session on a monthly basis moving to less or more contact as required over the 3 years of study (pro-rata for part-time).
• Once a Candidate has transferred to Writing Up, supervision sessions normally continue for one further term (pro-rata part time).
• The Second Supervisor will see the Candidate approximately once a term.

Co-Supervision

32.46 Co-supervision is used where a member of the supervision team is not an experienced supervisor, or where both supervisors’ combined input is essential to the project. A co-supervision team will comprise:

• two experienced supervisors; or
• an experienced supervisor, and
• an expert in the area of the research who has not necessarily supervised a candidate to completion previously.

32.47 The majority of co-supervision meetings will be with both supervisors attending.

32.48 The co-supervision model also allows for additional members to join a supervisory team on an ad hoc basis if particular additional subject expertise is required.

32.49 Co–supervision will be used in the event of an External Supervisor being required.

Supervision Sessions

32.50 Such meetings and schedules depend upon candidates responsibly meeting their commitments to the programme. Supervisors have the right to postpone or reschedule meetings where candidates have not developed their work since the previous meeting.

32.51 A supervision record should be kept of each meeting on the relevant prepared form, which will include notes on the discussion during the supervision and the candidate’s ongoing training and development. The candidate should complete the report within 48 hours of supervision and submit it to the supervisor for their feedback and signature.

External supervision

32.52 It is normally expected that all supervision, both first and second supervision, will be provided internally by employees of the School only.

32.53 The School will not make an offer of a place to any prospective candidate on the basis that their primary supervisor will be external to the School.

32.54 The School does not actively use external first supervisors as it is the School’s view that first supervision is best provided in-house by employees of the School. This enables the School to provide on-going supervision training, mentoring and support that may not be possible from a distance.

32.55 The School will not appoint an external first supervisor on the basis of a change in the topic or methodological approach of the thesis. Where this changes from that agreed at the point of application, and where the School does not have the relevant subject expertise or supervisory capacity internally, the candidate may be required to withdraw from the programme.

Arrangements for changing supervisors

32.56 It is possible that during a candidate’s period of registration, one or both of their supervisors will need to change (either temporarily or permanently). This is usually a result of a supervisor leaving employment with the School, or having to take long-term leave, but may also, in exceptional circumstances, arise as a result of changes to the direction of the candidate’s research. In these situations, the School will make every reasonable effort to maintain supervision, but it cannot guarantee to supervise candidates in circumstances where it does not have the relevant and available expertise to do so.

32.57 In the event of a proposal to change a candidate’s supervisory team, the lead supervisor should inform the Head of the Research Degrees Programme at the earliest opportunity, who will consult with the candidate, current supervisors, and potential new supervisors, to determine which of the following outcomes is most appropriate and practical:

• a temporary change of supervisor;
• a permanent change of supervisor;
• a permanent change of supervisor with the former supervisor retained as an external supervisor or advisor;
• no change to the supervisory team, but a change to their roles (for example, a change from separate supervision to co-supervision, or the lead and second supervisor switching roles);
• support for the candidate in applying to a supervisor’s new institution;
• in exceptional cases, an application to an alternative institution.

32.58 The Research Degrees Sub-Committee will reach a decision following consultation by the Head of the Research Degrees Programme with all parties and taking into account the following factors:

• the length of time to the anticipated completion of the project;
• the balance of expertise and experience in the supervisory team;
• the availability of alternative supervision within the School;
• the financial cost of retaining an external supervisor or advisor.

32.59 In the event that the Research Degrees Sub-Committee reaches the decision that a candidate’s project cannot be adequately supervised within the School, they will be supported in identifying and applying to an alternative institution that has the relevant available supervisory capacity.

32.60 In the event that a member of staff leaves the School and:

• the candidate does not wish to transfer to the new institution of the supervisor, and
• new supervision cannot be arranged, or
• the candidate does not agree with the new supervision arrangements

then the candidate will only remain under the supervision of their second supervisor until the end of that term, at which point the candidate will be deregistered. Where possible, the School will assist to negotiate a candidate’s application to study at an alternative institution to complete their course of study.

32.61 A candidate may not re-enrol for the next academic session without adequate supervision arrangements in place. Where the School cannot put such arrangements in place then the candidate will be withdrawn from the programme.

External second supervision

32.62 The School may permit a second supervisor to be external to the School at any stage from the point of offer onwards. This is particularly likely to be the case for students funded by LAHP (who may be supervised across LAHP institutions), and/or undertaking a collaborative doctoral award, where it is good practice to incorporate input from external partners into supervision. A full C.V. should be obtained from the potential supervisor, which should include information on research interests as well as any previous experience of research degree supervision. The Chair of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee should identify the relevant common areas of interest between the applicant’s proposal and the potential supervisor’s expertise. External supervisors will be approved by the Chair of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee, and this decision will be ratified by the Vice Principal (Research and Knowledge Exchange).

32.63 A prospective candidate may be accepted on to the programme with an external second supervisor from the commencement of the course. An external second supervisor augments the existing skills, expertise and supervisory capacity of the School. The first supervisor must be a member of Central’s staff.

External co-supervision

32.64 An external supervisor may be appointed as a co-supervisor when they do not have sufficient experience of supervision to completion but do have the relevant subject knowledge and experience that would otherwise permit them to be appointed as a first supervisor. However, the other member of the supervision team must:

• be an internal staff member, and
• have supervised at least one candidate to completion.

External Advisors

32.65 The School may accept applications from candidates and their supervisors for an External Advisor to be appointed, in addition to the supervisory team, to support a particular area of the candidate’s research that cannot be adequately supervised from within the institution. Applications for an External Advisor should be made to the Head of the Research Degrees Programme, who will consult the Vice Principal (Research and Knowledge Exchange) to reach a decision. Advisors will normally meet candidates no more than four times per year.

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33. Research Candidate Transfer and Annual Progress Review

General structure of reviews

33.1 Candidate progress on the research degree programme (both full- and part-time) will be reviewed by the School’s review process: annually for full-time candidates and biannually (i.e. every two years) for part-time candidates.

33.2 The first review will normally incorporate the transfer from MPhil to PhD. This review involves the candidate submitting the required written work, followed by an oral examination.

The First Annual Progress and Transfer Review

33.3 The Transfer review is initiated by a candidate who submits the three documents detailed below to the Research Degrees office. The Transfer Panel is appointed by the Research Degrees Subcommittee and normally consists of an external Assessor (i.e. a member of the School who is not involved in the research) and the second supervisor. This formal review is closer to an ‘examination’ or ‘viva’ and involves elements of a defence, i.e. the candidate will undergo a 45-60 minute examination of the content of a substantial piece of written work.

33.4 Candidates will submit the following materials, each with a covering form provided by the Research Degrees office:

1. A piece of scholarly research related to the thesis that, is of doctoral standard, of between 7,000 and 8,000 words. If the candidate is undertaking practice research, the practice for assessment must be agreed with the supervisor and can be presented in addition to the critical writing, either in the form of documentation or a short presentation. In whichever mode a candidate chooses to submit the practical component, they should expect for it to be engaged with for no longer than 20mins.
2. A Transfer Review Report, including a training needs assessment, with the required sections completed.
3. A plan of the thesis of no more than four five pages, which could take the form of provisional abstracts for each chapter, plus timeline for completion (see 33.6).

Transfer Criteria

33.5 The purpose of the Transfer Review is to assess whether the research meets the appropriate standards and expectations of work at PhD level. It is expected that the specific components in the candidate’s extended plan, in conjunction with the transfer viva will demonstrate that the following criteria have been met:

• commitment to pursuing research at Central leading to the PhD degree;
• satisfactory progress in the work so far;
• ability to formulate a viable hypothesis or research question that could be completed within the normal time frame of the PhD programme;
• showing a deep knowledge and understanding of and a critical perspective upon the relevant literature;
• developing an appropriate methodology to undertake the required research;
• demonstrating the ability to produce work of PhD level in terms of independent research, critical argument, use of sources, clarity of writing, and consistent use of scholarly apparatus (for example, referencing);
• demonstrating the ability both to defend ideas and to accept constructive criticism;
• successful completion of research training evidenced by satisfactory technical and generic skills development;
• formulation of a viable plan for the work and a related training needs assessment;
• satisfactory completion of a project plan (see below);
• English language proficiency, both written and spoken.

Extended plan of thesis project

33.6 The plan must include:

a. Thesis Title

b. Thesis Abstract
This delineates the broad topic of the project and major research issue(s). It should also include key aims.

c. Principal Research Questions

d. Key Research Methods
What research methods will be used to address the central research questions and why they are appropriate.

e. Project Thesis Outline
A brief abstract for each chapter of the thesis identifying the key issue(s) or question(s) the chapter investigates. For a Practice PhD ensure that the nature of the practice is clearly articulated, and that outline includes a discussion of how the findings are being articulated.

f. Research Resources
Are there any research resources that you will need during the project? Are there are any particular archives you need to visit? Are there interviews you need to undertake? Is there particular training you envisage needing in years two or three of the research? Please ensure you state what referencing system you are using.

g. Ethics.
Have you considered the ethical implications of the work? Have you secured ethical clearance for any work with human participants?

h. Bibliography
Provide a bibliography of relevant literature and present the bibliography in accordance with the referencing system you are using.

i. Timeline
Provide specific and realistic dates for completing the different stages of the project.

Decision of Transfer Panel

33.7 The panel will recommend to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee one of the following:

• The candidate transfers to PhD registration, after which a candidate cannot subsequently be entered for an MPhil unless either they choose to revert to an MPhil submission or their examiners deem that their submission fails PhD but meets the requirements for an MPhil (see 36.56, below).
• The candidate may transfer to PhD registration providing that the conditions stipulated are satisfactorily completed within 3 months (6 months for a part-time candidate).
• The candidate is not permitted to transfer and must complete the thesis for the award of MPhil only. The latter will normally only be recommended once a candidate has failed to meet the conditions set from the Transfer meeting.
• The candidate may not continue on the programme. This may only be recommended when a candidate has failed to meet the conditions set or in the academic opinion of the School the project will not meet the requirements for an MPhil or PhD award within the remaining time of registration.
• Where a panel is unable to reach an agreement, the matter will be dealt with according to the terms of the School’s ‘Guidance for the transfer and adjudication process of MPhil/PhD candidates’.

33.8 The Panel will complete a Transfer Outcome Form which will confirm the decision and provide any conditions for progression to PhD registration or confirm the reasons for continuing as MPhil status.

33.9 The decision to permit the candidate to complete as an MPhil candidate will be an academic one based upon the University of London requirements for an MPhil. Candidates who are required to complete as an MPhil candidate will have 12 months to submit for the MPhil examination.

33.10 Satisfactorily meeting the conditions of the PhD ‘Transfer’ is not confirmation that the candidate will be successful in the final examination.

Annual Progress Reviews

33.11 All candidates should complete an Annual Progress Review Report as a means of assessing their annual progress. The review is a condition for progression.

Review Submission

33.12 The review submission includes the following sections:

• a record of research and training activities undertaken during the previous year;
• a self-evaluation undertaken by the candidate;
• the candidate’s feedback on supervision and training;
• the Supervisor’s evaluation of the candidate’s progress;
• a training needs assessment agreed by the candidate and supervisors.

Criteria for Satisfactory Review

33.13 To progress satisfactorily in the review, the candidate is expected to demonstrate:

• on-going progress in the research questions, contribution to knowledge, literature review and contextualisation of the candidate’s work;
• on-going progress in the methodological aspects of the thesis;
• the on-going viability of the timeline for the different stages of the project and its completion within the remaining period of registration;
• awareness and addressing of any ethical issues for the project;
• adequate planning of research activity and training over the next year.

For candidates at the end of the third year of full-time study (or pro-rata part-time study), the supervision team will be required to assess if the candidate has produced enough of the thesis, at a standard compatible with what is expected of a PhD, to transfer to Writing Up Status.

Outcome of the Annual Progress Review

33.14 The outcome of a review will be either:

• Satisfactory - candidate progresses to undertake the next phase (12 months, or equivalent part-time) of study; or
• Conditional - the Research Degrees Sub-Committee specifies conditions which the candidate must meet in order to progress to the next phase of study. The candidate will continue as normal on the programme during the period when they are working to meet the conditions.

33.15 Conditions will be given by the Research Degrees Sub-Committee if:

• documentation requested has not been provided by the candidate;
• academic writing is not of a sufficient standard;
• there is insufficient evidence of engagement with training and development;
• there is no plan or an inadequate plan for the next 12 months of the programme (this should clearly identify goals, targets and timescales);
• any of the criteria (above) have not been met sufficiently in the view of the panel.

33.16 Candidates will have 3 months (or 6 months if part-time) to satisfy the conditions, during which time, if progress is not satisfactory, supervisors should explore if there are any underlying reasons that are hindering progress and see if additional support is needed, or if a change in mode of study, Break in Study, or other reasonable adjustments should be considered. Following the submission of materials to satisfy the conditions, the panel will report to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee that the candidate:

• has met the conditions and may continue in the programme, or
• unsatisfactory progress has been made and the panel recommends that the candidate should not continue on the programme and should be deregistered.

Mitigating Circumstances

33.17 Candidates who have to satisfy conditions to pass a formal review have one attempt only to do this. An additional attempt may only be granted through successful application of mitigating circumstances by the candidate (see section 22).

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34. “Writing Up”, “Full Fee” and “Continuation” Status

34.1 The normal period of registration for candidates is stated in paragraph 32.2, above.

34.2 At the end of the three year period of full-time registration (or its part-time equivalent), if the candidate has not submitted their thesis they would normally be expected to:

1. transfer to Writing Up status with minimum supervision; or
2. re-register with Full Fee status in order to access full supervision.

34.3 After the maximum period of either Writing Up or Full Fee status a candidate must submit their thesis.

Extension of Registration on the Research Degrees Programme

34.4 An extension beyond that stated above may be granted only in exceptional circumstances by application to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee via the Research Degrees office (see 32.33).

Protocol to transfer on to Writing Up status

34.5 Writing up status will normally be for no more than two years full-time or four years part-time, and will commence normally after the end of three or four years of full-time registration or equivalent part-time, subject to paragraph 34.6 a-c (below).

34.6 Exceptionally a candidate may proceed to writing up status at the end of the minimum period of full-time registration (2 years) or equivalent part-time (4 years) subject to paragraphs a-c (below):

a) the candidate requires minimal supervision (usually for no more than one supervision session every three months);

b) no further data collection or research is required in order to complete the PhD;

c) The candidate has already submitted at least one full draft of all components of the thesis to the supervisors and the supervisors have confirmed that the draft submitted is of a standard that allows the supervisor to conclude that a final submission should be able to be made within the writing up period.

34.7 The thesis must be submitted for examination within the candidate’s maximum period of registration.

34.8 The transfer to writing up status will be approved only by Research Degrees Sub-Committee.

34.9 Candidates will be invoiced for the writing up fee.

34.10 Writing up status will begin either one or two years before a full-time candidate’s maximum period of registration (or part-time equivalent), and will be applied to the candidate’s next full year of fees. No refund will be given pertaining to tuition fees for the current academic year.

Protocol to re-register with Full Fee status

34.11 Full Fee status will normally be for no more than two years full-time or four years part-time, and will commence normally after the end of the three years of full-time registration or equivalent part-time, subject to paragraphs a-d (below).

a) the candidate requires more than the minimal supervision provided for under Writing Up status;

b) elements of further data collection or research are required in order to complete the PhD;

c) a final deadline for submission of the thesis has been set and approved by the Research Degrees Sub-Committee;

d) The candidate and supervisors have established a plan to submission of the thesis including scheduling at least one full draft of the thesis to the supervisor.

34.12 The thesis must be submitted for examination no later than one calendar year after reregistration with Full Fee status.

34.13 Full Fee status will begin at the start of the following academic year (or January for January-start candidates only), and no refund will be given pertaining to tuition fees for the current academic year.

34.14 Part-time candidates may complete up to three years on Full Fee status and then apply to transfer to Writing Up status for one year.

34.15 The Full Fee tuition fee will be that of the advertised fees for home or overseas as appropriate for the year of study.

Continuation status

34.16 Candidates are required to re-enrol as students with the School until they reach the final point of their studies (i.e. the date of the awards letter issued to them by the Research Degrees office on behalf of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee).

34.17 “Continuation” status is reserved for candidates who are making corrections following viva or awaiting a second viva. Writing Up status will be given to any candidate who has submitted and is awaiting the viva only.

34.18 Candidates who have submitted and are awaiting a viva or second viva will not pay any fees if re-registration takes the candidate into a new academic year or term.

34.19 Candidates registered on “continuation status” shall continue to be permitted access to Library and IT Services.

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35. Requirements of The Thesis

35.1 The requirements of the thesis derive from the University of London’s Regulation 1 (University of London Awards).

Requirements applicable to Theses submitted for the Degrees of MPhil and PhD

35.2 The University of London’s Regulation 1 (University of London Awards) pertains to all submissions.

Thesis for the MPhil Degree

35.3 Section C of the University of London’s Regulation 1 (University of London Awards) contains requirements applicable for MPhil submissions.

Thesis for the PhD Degree

35.4 Section C of the University of London’s Regulation 1 (University of London Awards) contains requirements applicable for PhD submissions.

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36. Arrangements For The Examination of Research Degrees

Nomination and appointment of examiners for research degrees

36.1 Examiners are nominated by the first supervisor after consultation with the second supervisor, signed off by the Chair of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee, and their appointment is approved by the Vice Principal (Research and Knowledge Exchange).

36.2 The Panel of Examiners normally comprises two examiners:

• one (internal) examiner who is a member of the University of London;
• one (external) examiner who is external to the University of London.

36.3 Exceptionally, where the criteria for an internal examiner cannot be met, a second external examiner is appointed.

36.4 An independent chair will be appointed to the Panel of Examiners. The responsibility of the Chair is to manage the conduct of the viva and ensure adherence to regulations but not to contribute to the decision whether or not the standards for award have been met. The Chair will be an internal member of staff unconnected to the candidate’s project and appointed by the Chair of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee.

36.5 Supervisors should informally approach examiners to ascertain whether they would be willing to act as an Examiner. Examiners are formally nominated on the Examination Entry form. The Research Degrees office shall formally write to the nominated examiners and shall at the same time inform the examiners of the proposed title of the thesis and include the 300-word short description of the thesis as completed on the Examination Entry form by the candidate.

36.6 Where a member of permanent staff is due to be examined then the Panel of Examiners should be comprised entirely of members from outside of the School.

Eligibility to Examine

36.7 Examiners should be experts in the field of the thesis but not necessarily in all parts of the precise topic. The aim should be to appoint two examiners who, between them, cover most aspects of the work to be presented by the candidate and will be able to make an independent assessment of the candidate.

36.8 At least one examiner should have experience of examining for a research degree.

36.9 Nominated examiners should have had no direct involvement in the candidate’s research nor any close connections with either the candidate or supervisor which might inhibit a completely objective examination. They should not have taken an active role in considering the candidate’s transfer of status from MPhil to PhD.

36.10 An examiner should not normally be appointed more than once during a given year by the School.

36.11 Individuals who were previously members of staff, candidates or other members of the School (for example, Visiting Lecturers) should not be appointed as an external examiner until a period of three years has elapsed. In exceptional circumstances, such individuals may be appointed as quasi-internal examiners where it proves impossible to find a suitable person to fill the role of internal examiner.

36.12 Overseas examiners may be appointed as external examiners only in exceptional circumstances and where it is considered that such an appointment is necessary. The supervisors should provide a statement indicating:

1. the reasons for the nomination of an examiner from overseas;
2. the examiner appointed is familiar with the British higher education system; and
3. confirmation from the Research Degrees office regarding the arrangement for funding travel and subsistence expenses of the examiner.

36.13 Both examiners will receive a briefing document on their role in advance of confirmation of their appointment by the School. Confirmation of the appointment and the payment of any fees and expenses shall be made by the Research Degrees office.

36.14 The School is aware that some overseas examiners will not necessarily incur travel costs any higher than those of a UK examiner. For example, if the overseas examiner is already in the UK on other business at the time of the viva. In such cases, the supervisor should make it clear in the supporting statement why the nominated overseas examiner should be treated as a UK examiner as far as expenses are concerned.

36.15 In the event that in the time between the examination of one (or more) practice-based elements and the date of the viva voce an examiner is (for unforeseen reasons, for example medical-related) unable to continue with the examination, a new examiner will be appointed. The examiner will be sent the DVD recordings of the practice-based elements and any notes of their co-examiner. The new examiner will not be sent any notes or reports written by the examiner who they replace.

Examination Entry

36.16 An Examination Entry form must be completed jointly by the supervisor and candidate. The form shall confirm the candidate’s details, thesis title and description, examiners, and the schedule of assessment for the examination.

36.17 The submission for the examination is seen as a single line of enquiry which may be multi-modal.

36.18 The schedule of assessment must comprise of a written thesis and a viva. In addition it may contain one or more elements of practice to be assessed by the examiners.

36.19 The viva is the last assessment to occur in the schedule of assessment.

36.20 The entry form must be submitted to the Research Degrees office no less than four months before the first scheduled assessment, either the viva or, if required, the Practice Exam.

36.21 The entry form for PhD examination may not normally be submitted until the candidate reaches their third year (full-time) on the research degree programme (or equivalent part-time).

36.22 If the candidate has not submitted their written thesis for examination within 12 months of the submission of the entry form for the examination, the entry will be cancelled unless there are particular reasons to warrant an extension. If the entry is cancelled, the candidate’s registration on the Research Degrees Programme will be suspended pending investigation by the Research Degrees Sub-Committee, and either a new Examination Entry Form will be required or the candidate will be deregistered.

36.23 Candidates registered for MPhil submission may not submit their examination entry form until the six months before the completion of the minimum period of study for research degrees (2 years full-time as defined by the University of London).

36.24 The Examination Entry form shall be approved on behalf of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee by both the Chair of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee and the Vice Principal (Research and Knowledge Exchange).

36.25 At the end of the three-year period of full-time registration (or its part-time equivalent) the candidate should either be in the position to submit the thesis, transfer to Writing Up status for a maximum of two years full-time (four years part-time), or re-register for Full Fees status for up to two further years (or four years part-time). After this period of either Writing Up or Full Fees status, the candidate is expected to be in the position to submit the thesis (see 35.2) or they will be deregistered.

36.26 An extension beyond that stated above may be granted only in exceptional circumstances by application to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee via the Research Degrees office.

Thesis Submission

36.27 Candidates are entered for either the award of MPhil or PhD depending on the results of the Transfer Review. Candidates may not submit before the minimum period of registration has elapsed (two years, full-time) and must submit before the end of the maximum period registration. The decision to submit is made by the candidate, but candidates are advised to be guided by their supervisory team in deciding when to submit.

36.28 All candidates must adhere to the regulations concerning the requirements, format, word count, presentation, and submission of the thesis (see above, Section 35: Requirements of the Thesis).

36.29 A candidate undertaking a practice/performance research degree may request to submit the thesis in A3 format. Requests must be made in writing to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee and have the support of the primary supervisor. Requests for the thesis to be printed on both sides of the page should also be submitted to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee.

36.30 A candidate may either register to undertake research leading to a thesis submitted in accordance with the normal provisions, or register to undertake original research in performance practice on the understanding that the material is submitted concurrently and is examined as an integrated whole. In the latter case the thesis should include evidence in the form of practical performance which exemplifies and illustrates the ideas contained in the written part of the thesis. However presented, this work must be accompanied by an adequate and approved form of retainable documentation.

36.31 The Examination Entry form shall detail the method(s) by which practice and performance based parts of the examination shall be adequately retained (e.g. recording of performances and submission as a DVD to accompany the thesis etc).

Organisation of the Viva Examination

36.32 After the Examination Entry Form has been approved the Research Degrees office arranges all aspects of the viva examination: they contact the examiners to identify and confirm a mutually convenient time and place to hold the viva examination, notify the candidate and supervisors of the date of the viva examination and practice elements, and confirm the date of submission for the thesis.

36.33 The viva examination will normally be held at the School. The holding of online viva examinations is, however, permitted in exceptional circumstances; any enquiries about this should be addressed to the Research Degrees office in the first instance.

36.34 The viva examination will normally occur within 3 months of the submission of the thesis and no earlier than one month after submission in order to provide Examiners with sufficient time. The date and time of the viva is a matter for the School and the Examiners. The School’s decision is final.

Preliminary Independent Reports

36.35 Each examiner is asked to write an independent preliminary report on the thesis and, where used, practice elements in advance of the viva examination. It is expected that each examiner will write their report after reading the thesis but before conferring with the co-examiner about it.

36.36 Typically the preliminary report identifies particular areas which the examiner believes should be explored with the candidate during the viva examination, and, if possible, makes an initial recommendation, based on an assessment of the thesis, for the result of the examination. These recommendations should not be indicated to the candidate in advance of the viva, which is an integral component of the examination.

36.37 The examiners should exchange their preliminary reports with each other before conducting the viva examination and send a copy to the Research Degrees office 24 hours before the examination is conducted.

Queries and special arrangements for the examination

36.38 If the examiners have any queries about the School’s requirements for the award of the research degree and about the regulations they should contact the Research Degrees office.

36.39 All matters relating to the examination are confidential and examiners should not contact any third party, other than the supervisor as provided for in the regulations and this guidance. Otherwise all queries must be made through Research Services.

36.40 The Equality Act 2010 requires institutions to make reasonable adjustments for disabled candidates who may require adjustments in their assessment. The School, via the Research Degrees office, will facilitate a process of identification for specific provision via the School’s reasonable adjustments system. Candidates are encouraged to inform the Research Degrees office at the time of examination entry (or as soon as possible afterwards) if they require any special arrangements to be made. Examiners will be advised of any such arrangements with their appointment letters. If examiners are informed directly by the supervisor or candidate of any disability they should seek the advice of the Research Degrees office. The School operates a process of Independent Chairs for every MPhil and PhD viva to assist in ensuring that reasonable adjustments are made.

Purpose and conduct of the viva examination

36.41 The purpose of the viva examination is to examine the candidate on the subject of the thesis and relevant subjects. During the viva the examiners should seek to establish whether all the requirements for a thesis submitted for the relevant degree have been met, and to establish that the thesis is genuinely the work of the candidate. If there is any doubt that the thesis is the candidate’s own work the examiners should contact the Research Degrees office.

36.42 The examiners are advised to discuss between themselves the strategy they propose to adopt during the viva and to outline this to the candidate at the outset of the examination.

36.43 There are no set requirements about the conduct of viva examinations, nor about their duration, but they should be conducted in such a way that the candidate has adequate opportunity, encouragement and time to explain their research and to defend the thesis and any practice elements. It is recommended that, during a long viva examination, examiners should allow short break(s) at appropriate point(s). A typical viva examination would normally last approximately 2 hours.

36.44 No persons other than the examiners, the independent chair and the candidate may attend the viva examination.

36.45 The supervisor shall be invited, unless the candidate indicates otherwise on their entry form, to attend the oral examination of their MPhil or PhD candidate as an observer. The supervisor does not have the right to participate in the examination of the candidate but may contribute if invited to do so by the examiners. Otherwise the oral examination shall be held in private.

36.46 If the candidate becomes so unwell or distressed during the viva examination as to be unable to proceed, the examiners should, after such consultation with the candidate and supervisor as is possible at that time, decide whether or not to continue the viva examination.

36.47 If the examination continues, they should note in their final report that the candidate was unwell. If they decide not to continue they should determine whether sufficient evidence has been provided to allow a decision to be taken or whether it will be necessary to hold the viva examination on another occasion.

36.48 If the candidate makes comments to the examiners which put them under moral pressure (e.g. alluding to the consequences of failure for him/her), or offers any kind of incentive to the examiners to pass him/her, the examination should be terminated and a report should be written by the Independent Chair, addressed to the Academic Registrar and Director of Academic Services and submitted via the Research Degrees office.

The outcome of the examination for MPhil

36.49 At the conclusion of the viva examination the candidate should withdraw and the examiners should confer on the result in private.

36.50 The examiners have discretion, after the initial private discussion, to consult the Research Degrees office, the Academic Registrar and Director of Academic Services, or the Head of the Research Degrees Programme, particularly if they have doubts relating to the appropriate decision to be made.

36.51 The options open to the examiners in determining the results of the MPhil examination are: a) Pass; b) Pass subject to corrections to be completed and checked by one or both examiners within three months; c) Not pass, but the candidate is allowed to re-present the thesis within 4 months; d) Not pass, but the candidate is allowed to revise the thesis and resubmit it within 12 months; e) Not pass, but the candidate is allowed to submit to a second viva examination on the same thesis and by the same examiners within 12 months; f) Fail outright: no re-entry permitted. The candidate is excluded from the School. 

36.52 The candidate may re-submit at any point within the time-frame outlined above but may re-submit only once.

36.53 Examiners should not consider option e) unless they have first considered and rejected as inapplicable the preceding options.

The outcome of the examination for PhD

36.54 At the conclusion of the viva examination the candidate should withdraw and the examiners should confer on the result in private.

36.55 The examiners have discretion, after the initial private discussion, to consult the Research Degrees office, the Academic Registrar and Director of Academic Services, or the Head of the Research Degrees Programme, particularly if they have doubts relating to the appropriate decision to be made.

36.56 The options open to the examiners in determining the results are: a) Pass; b) Pass subject to corrections to be completed and checked by one or both examiners within three months; c) Not pass, but the candidate is allowed to re-present the thesis within 6 months; d) Not pass, but the candidate is allowed to revise the thesis and resubmit it within 18 months; e) Not pass, but the candidate is allowed to submit to a second viva examination on the same thesis and by the same examiners within 18 months; f) Fail PhD but the candidate is deemed to have met the requirements for an MPhil (with or without minor amendments) or should be allowed to resubmit a revised thesis for the MPhil degree within 3 months; g) Fail outright: no re-entry permitted. The candidate is excluded from the School.

36.57 The candidate may re-submit at any point within the time-frame outlined above but may re-submit only once.

36.58 Examiners should not consider option e) unless they have first considered and rejected as inapplicable the preceding options; and should not consider option f) unless they have previously considered and rejected as inapplicable all the previous options.

Reporting the decision

36.59 Examiners are required to complete the Outcome of Research Degree Examination form indicating which of the available decisions they have made and should include the following:

• Name of the candidate;
• Thesis title;
• Signatures of each of the examiners;
• Date.

36.60 Examiners are required to write a joint report giving the grounds on which their decision is based. The report should normally be submitted to the Research Degrees office within two weeks of the viva taking place. It should have regard to the requirements of a thesis for the relevant research degree. It should not cross-refer to the examiners’ preliminary reports unless the examiners wish the candidate to be sent a copy of those preliminary reports.

36.61 If the examiners decide to refer the candidate to revise and resubmit the thesis for the degree, they should indicate in what ways the current thesis fails to satisfy the requirements for the degree, and should indicate clearly the revisions which they consider should be made.

36.62 Examiners who are referring a candidate to revise and resubmit the thesis in 18 months (for PhD) or 12 months (for MPhil) should indicate on the Outcome of Research Degree Examination form and in their joint report whether: a) it will definitely not be necessary to conduct a viva examination on the revised thesis, or b) they will definitely require a viva examination on the revised thesis, or c) they want to reserve their position until they have read the revised thesis.

36.63 If the examiners decide that the criteria for the PhD degree have not been met, but the criteria for the MPhil have been, or might be, satisfied they should: a) explain the basis for their decision not to allow resubmission for the PhD; and b) show how the requirements for a thesis for the MPhil are satisfied.

36.64 The MPhil degree is an award in its own right and may not be awarded unless the criteria for that degree are satisfied. It is not awarded as compensation for a failed PhD.

36.65 If the examiners’ decision is to fail the candidate outright, they should indicate the basis for their decision to reject all the other options open to them.

36.66 The examiners should agree between themselves at the end of the viva examination the arrangements for drafting and finalising their joint report and for sending it, the Outcome of Research Degree Examination form, their preliminary reports, and their copies of the thesis to the Research Degrees office. This should be done within two weeks of the examination. If, for any reason, it is not possible for the reports to be returned within two weeks of the viva examination, one of the examiners should contact the Research Degrees office to discuss the problem.

36.67 If the examiners have indicated on the Outcome of Research Degree Examination form that they require the candidate to make minor amendments, the Research Degrees office will send a further request to the named examiner for certification that the amendments have been completed satisfactorily.

36.68 Examiners have the right to make comments in confidence in a separate report to the Principal. This report should not, however, relate to the individual candidate but to matters for the School to consider.

Notification to the Candidate

36.69 If the examiners wish to advise the candidate orally and informally of their decision at the conclusion of their deliberations following the examination, they must make clear to the candidate that the result is not formal and final until confirmed and notified by letter from the School to the candidate.

36.70 A copy of the Outcome of Research Degree Examination form and the examiners’ joint report is routinely sent to the candidate when they are officially informed by letter from the Research Degrees office of their result. The candidate does not normally see the examiners’ preliminary reports, but may do so if the examiners so request and will do so in the event of them appealing against the examiners’ decision.

Conferment of award

36.71 Research degrees are confirmed at a meeting of the Research Degrees Sub-Committee on behalf of the Academic Board, and conferred at the following graduation ceremony. The Sub-Committee meets termly.

36.72 Following confirmation of the award, copies of the examiners’ joint report will be forwarded to the candidate, supervisors, and Head of the Research Degrees Programme by the Research Degrees office.

36.73 The Academic Records Office shall be responsible for informing the University of London of any awards made.

Examination of re-entry Candidates

36.74 Unless it is impossible for them to do so, it is expected that the original examiners will examine the candidate on re-entry.

36.75 In examining a re-entry candidate the examiners should have regard for the report they made on the first examination, copies of which can be made available to them.

36.76 Examiners have discretion on whether or not to hold a viva examination on a revised and resubmitted thesis, but will need to have regard for any statement they have made about this in their joint report on the original examination.

36.77 When the revised thesis is dispatched to the examiners the Research Degrees office will ask them to confirm whether a further viva examination is required. If so, the Research Degrees office will inform the candidate and supervisor, and will make the necessary arrangements.

36.78 The re-entry examination for the research degree is subject to the same rules and procedures as the original examination, apart from the possibility of not holding a viva examination.

36.79 The examiners may request the appointment of a third examiner at any time if they consider it desirable and should always do so before they report formally that they are unable to arrive at agreement. In these circumstances they should contact the Head of the Research Degrees Programme via the Research Degrees office for advice in the first instance.

36.80 Candidates may revise and resubmit a thesis once only.

Examiners’ fees and expenses

36.81 A fee is paid to each examiner following the initial examination and following any subsequent re-entry examination after a referral. Payment is authorised automatically on receipt of the examiners’ joint report.

36.82 Examiners may claim reasonable travel and other expenses in accordance with the relevant schedules. Claims should normally be submitted to the Research Degrees office on the form provided at the end of the examination, but may be submitted earlier where advance payment for tickets has been necessary.

Equal opportunities

36.83 All examinations of the School are subject to the School’s Equal Opportunities Policy, copies of which are available from the Research Degrees office. All candidates are subject to the same academic criteria and requirements.

Academic Appeals Procedures

36.84 The School’s Academic Appeals Procedures provide the appeal mechanism for research degree examinations.

Final Thesis Submission

36.85 Once all corrections and amendments to the thesis have been made by the candidate and confirmation of the award has been received from the Examiners, the candidate should ensure that the final hard bound copy of the thesis and the final electronic copy is provided to the School within one month of notification to the candidate by the School that the revised thesis has met the requirements of the Examiners.

Instructions and notes on submission, format and binding of theses submitted for the degrees of MPhil and PhD

36.86 Theses have to be robust enough to endure the examination process and also have to be easily identified.

36.87 Once the examination is successfully completed, copies of the thesis are deposited in the School’s library so that the research undertaken can be publicly available: one hard-bound copy will be deposited in the library of the School (and will be the archival/reference only copy) and one electronic copy will be uploaded on to the School’s e-repository.

36.88 Every candidate submitting a thesis must do so in accordance with the following instructions and all preceding regulations (including word length stipulations):

A. Number of copies

Two, soft-bound copies must be submitted to the Research Degrees office. Each candidate is required to bring one additional copy to the viva examination paginated in the same way as the copies submitted to the School and adequately bound. A pdf copy must be supplied for the Research Degrees office’s records.

B. Presentation

Theses must be presented in a permanent and legible form in typescript or print except that mathematical or similar formulae may be inserted neatly by hand. Photographic and other illustrations should be permanently mounted on A4 size paper and bound in with the thesis. In no circumstances should Sellotape or similar materials be used for any purpose. A request for the thesis to be submitted in A3 format and/or printed on both sides of the page shall be considered in accordance with procedures made by the College of registration and may be approved where there is a demonstrable need. Candidates must make every effort to correct errors before submission. It is not the task of Examiners to act as editors and/or proof-readers of a thesis. Candidates seeking to commission a professional proof-reader should first consult the advice on proofreading provided in the Research Degrees section of MyCentral.

C. Paper

A4 size paper (210 x 297 mm) should be used. Plain white paper must be used, of good quality and of sufficient opacity for normal reading. Only one side of the paper may be used. [See also Section K, binding, below]

D. Layout

Margins at the binding edge must be not less than 40 mm (1.5 inches) and other margins not less than 20 mm (0.75 inches). Double or one-and-a-half spacing should be used in typescripts, except for indented quotations or footnotes where single spacing may be used. Additional decisions regarding layout should be made, as appropriate to the thesis, with the supervisory team.

E. Pagination

All pages must be numbered in one continuous sequence, i.e. from the title page of the first volume to the last page of type, in Arabic numerals from 1 onwards. This sequence must include everything bound in the volume, including maps, diagrams, blank pages, etc. Any material which cannot be bound in with the text must be placed in a pocket inside or attached to the back cover or in a rigid container similar in format to the bound thesis (see also Section L below).

F. Title Page

The title page must bear the officially-approved title of the thesis, the candidate’s full name as registered, the name of the School (The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London) and the degree for which the thesis is submitted. The title page should be followed by a signed declaration that the work presented in the thesis is the candidate’s own.

G. Abstract

The signed declaration should be followed by an abstract consisting of no more than 300 words. A soft copy of the abstract should be submitted to the Research Degrees office with the thesis.

H. Table of Contents

In each copy of the thesis the abstract should be followed by a full table of contents (including any material not bound in) and a list of tables, photographs and any other materials. Where there are additional materials, either online or accompanying the thesis, these should be clearly listed in the table of contents.

I. Illustrative material

Illustrative material may be submitted in any appropriate and accessible form of media, which should be listed in the table of contents. Any material which cannot be bound in with the text must be placed either in a pocket inside or attached to the cover or in a rigid container similar in format to the bound thesis. If it is separate from the bound volume it must be clearly labelled with the same information as on the title-page (see Section F, title page, above).

Each copy of the thesis submitted must be accompanied by a full set of this material.

J. Practice Research PhDs

A candidate who is undertaking practice research in accordance with the provisions of the relevant MPhil and PhD regulations should have sought approval from the School of the form of the retainable documentation in advance of submitting the thesis. A thesis may be submitted in A3 format where the Research Degrees Sub-Committee has agreed there is a demonstrable need. Requests for the thesis to be printed on both sides of the page should also be submitted to the Research Degrees Sub-Committee.

K. Binding

In the first instance candidates should submit two robustly bound copies of their theses. If the thesis has to be bound in two volumes, they should indicate this clearly, e.g. Vol. 1 and Vol. 2.

[The date on the copies of the thesis submitted for examination in November and December should be that of the following year.]

L. After the Examination

After the examination is complete candidates should make sure that the Research Degrees office has one hard-bound copy and electronic copy of the thesis with any required corrections completed. Results cannot be released where a candidate has outstanding tuition fee debt.

Hard-bound theses must:

• have the pages sewn or be mechanically fixed in a permanent manner
• be covered in medium blue cloth (e g water resistant material);
• be lettered in gold up the spine with Degree, Year, and Surname and Initials in the same form as the College records, with letters 16 or 18 point (.25 inch);
• if the thesis has to be bound in two volumes, the spine should indicate this clearly, e.g. Vol. 1 and Vol. 2.

[The date on the copies of the thesis submitted for examination in November and December should be that of the following year.]

The School will not issue the result of the examination to successful Candidates until it has received one final hard-bound and one final electronic copy and the examiners have confirmed that any amendments to the thesis required by them have been made.

Online Thesis Embargo

36.89 A thesis should normally be made publicly available immediately after the award of a degree. Candidates may, however, apply to the School for temporary (or, in exceptional cases, permanent) restriction of access to the thesis and/or the abstract of the thesis on the grounds of commercial exploitation, patenting or other exceptional circumstances.

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