Harper Adams University Postgraduate Prospectus

RESEARCH DEGREES Doctoral development programme We recognise that research encompasses more than academic skills, and that research students are professionals training for a career that may be in an academic setting but could equally result in technical research work in industry, a specialist communication or policy development role, or a wide range of other opportunities. We therefore offer a Doctoral Development Programme (DDP) of individual training to support the diversity of our research students and their aims. For example, regular meetings with supervisors will establish time management and offer effective project planning, organisational strategies and team working. A range of further training is provided in communication and presentation skills, career planning and networking, research and writing skills, and relevant information technology. Research students are also encouraged to consider development opportunities through external events and activities e.g. those offered by professional organisations and learned societies. Funding and applications Opportunities exist for PhD studies on full or part-time modes of study. Applicants may be self-funded or we offer a number of studentships each year, and these are advertised on our e-Recruitment website. Sign up to our Vacancy Alert service to receive an email notification direct to your inbox whenever a new studentship/vacancy is advertised. jobs.harper-adams.ac.uk Key points • Choice of one year (MRes), two year (MPhil) or three year (PhD) research degrees • We have been awarding our own PhDs for two decades • Excellent completion rates for higher degrees • Accessible academic staff • Excellent job prospects for PhD candidates in industry, government organisations and academia • Rural location and collegiate atmosphere • Unique facilities • Fortnightly research seminar programme • All PhD research students have their own office space and a dedicated computer. Study level Pass requirements Average duration in years (maximum time for submission in brackets) Full time Part time Master of Research (MRes) 60 credits + 120-credit research project 1-3 (3) 15 months to 4 years (4) Master of Philosophy (MPhil) Research project 15 months to 3 years (4) 2-4 (6) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Research project 2 – 3 (4) 3 – 5 (6) “Strategic and applied research underpins Harper Adams' mission to provide higher education for a sustainable food chain and rural economy. Our research and reach-out strategies are focused to meet the challenge of rural sustainability.” Professor Peter Mills, DeputyVice-Chancellor 18 / RESEARCH