Applying for a PHD is a completely different ball game to applying for a taught course.

Having the right approach could make all the difference.

Students commonly submit an application that entrusts admissions teams to review their proposal and find an appropriate supervisor. Given the nature of the proposal and availability of a suitable supervisor, the applications have a higher rejection rate.

Best practice is less known, it entails finding your own supervisor.

IDENTIFY YOUR RESEARCH INTERESTS

This may be a topic already obvious to you, it may be a theory or issue that has sparked your curiosity or instigated by your interest in challenging research and developing understanding.  Whichever topic you choose- make sure it captures your interest.

‘you need to define a gap in knowledge – and one that can be questioned, explored, researched and written about in the time available to you’ – Gina Wisker, Head of the Centre for Learning and Teaching at Brighton University

SEARCH CURRENT RESEARCH ACTIVITY WITHIN UNIVERSITY SCHOOLS/DEPARTMENTS

Research! This may be the most crucial step in your application for a PHD.

Take the time to review current research within universities’ research schools to find the research and expertise that links as closely as possible to your own research interests. Carefully study the research conducted and whether your own research would fit in.  Through this course, you are raising the stakes in finding the school that will you give you the most constructive support and in turn raise the standard of your research.

IDENTIFY AND CONTACT A POTENTIAL SUPERVISOR

The success of your PHD may be dependent on your student-supervisor relationship.

Once you have located your research school, you are strongly recommended by universities to shortlist a potential supervisor whose research interests closely match or compliment your own. To determine this, it is useful to browse university website, academic profiles, personal web pages, publications, research groups, past or present research overseen, project listings and scientific databases.

You are encouraged to reach out to your potential supervisor at this stage. An informative, direct and personal email could go a long way. The AQTD team are well experienced in locating research and have a good grasp on what you should include in your email to get a response.

WRITE A RESEARCH PROPOSAL

Once you have found a supervisor whose expertise represents a good match and who is interested in your topic, you can start developing or refining your research proposal with their consultation.

Our team can offer plenty of advice on how to write a well-structured and promising proposal.

SUBMIT A FORMAL APPLICATION TO THE ADMISSION TEAM

Formally submit an application with your research proposal and required documents. AQTD works closely with the admissions teams, we ensure your application is in its best form and, where necessary, will prepare you for your PHD interview.

We will make sure your proposal isn’t being passed around and sitting on desks waiting to be read for too long.