Studying a PhD
In Britain, PhD study typically involves a piece of research conducted under the supervision of a supervisor (or, as at Newcastle University, two supervisors). The period of the research, including writing up the thesis, is three years full time, though it sometimes extends to four. Part-time PhDs generally take five years to complete.
In most instances, applicants are expected to come up with their own research proposal, which should identify key questions which the research will seek to answer, and give some indication of the sorts of methods that might be used. Submission of a research proposal is an essential part of the application process. No application will be considered without a research proposal.
Acceptance depends not only upon the abilities and track-record of the applicant, but also upon the availability of suitable supervisors. However, applicants are advised not to make individual contact with staff members prior to making an application. If accepted, a student will develop their initial research proposal in discussion with supervisors. In certain cases, staff may be interested in working with you in your general area of interest, but may not feel that your specific research proposal offers great scope for development. In this case we may negotiate a revised project that fits more closely with the current activity and research programmes of the School.