Pre-Doctorate: Research Degree Preparation

The pre-doctorate course consists of four core modules and one optional module. These will be undertaken over a 16-week period with certain modules being taught concurrently. 

Research Skills and Training
Turning an idea into a research project requires the development of a research framework. This module will begin by understanding the basics of research philosophies, research approaches and research methods. It also explores methods of data organisation and formal analysis, research ethics and project feasibility. Predominately a theory-based module, it will give students initial training in key research skills for pre-doctoral study.

Confirming Research Project
This module will start by exploring the research centres and communities within UCA, liaising with staff and students to find out more about the PhD experience, hear about existing PhD students research and discuss research proposal ideas. Alongside this, students will be supported through tutorials and group critiques in defining and funnelling down their research topic by developing a draft literature review and research proposal.

PhD Application
The purpose of this module is to support students in writing and submitting a successful PhD application. During this module you will be mentored through tutorials and meetings in order to refine and hone your application, research proposal and bibliography.

Preparing for Interview
This final module will focus on preparing you for formal interview, develop your communication skills and offer further opportunity to ensure your research proposal is SMART – Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. Interview techniques, communication skills and clarity in presentation will be practiced through one to one personalised tutorial’s and a series of mock interviews.