Postgraduate Research Student Support
As a postgraduate research student at Newcastle University, you’re connected to a wide network of support.
Access to a vibrant and supportive community
At Newcastle we prioritise providing an outstanding teaching and learning experience.
So, although you may spend many hours working independently on your research, you’re never really alone. You’ll have access to a supportive network of professionals and postgraduate research specialists throughout your research journey. We're here to support you every step of way.
The Doctoral College
The Newcastle University Doctoral College provides dedicated support to our postgraduate research community.
The College works closely with colleagues across all parts of the University to ensure that you succeed in your research journey. It is here to support every aspect of your growth: academic, personal and professional. The Doctoral College also offers the opportunity to apply for extensive financial support, including travel, networking, and career transitional funds.
From developing effective policies and procedures, through to promoting engagement opportunities and celebrating successes, the Doctoral College works to ensure that you make the most of your time at Newcastle.
Support in your studies
Your research degree may be an individual project, but you won't complete it alone. You'll usually have at least two academic supervisors, who will be your key support and guide on your research journey. You’ll also be part of a vibrant research group and located in an office near your peers and research facilities.
They’ll work with you through every stage of your journey to becoming an independent researcher, including:
- developing your research proposal
- refining your ideas
- data collection and analysis
- thesis writing
- your viva (if studying for a PhD). This is your oral examination where you defend your thesis and demonstrate your expertise to a panel of examiners
- developing the practical skills that you’ll need for success
Your academic supervisors will usually be the first people to reach out to if you’re dealing with a challenge that’s impacting your degree. As well as being able to offer help and advice, they can signpost you to other relevant services to ensure that any issues are dealt with quickly.
Your Faculty Graduate School are there to support you with administrative help and advice connected to the progression of your studies throughout the year. It's also another place that you can go for assistance and signposting if you are facing difficulties.
There’s also a network of other people available in your school and faculty who will be ready to help with general day-to-day queries and your personal and professional development.
The staff are incredibly approachable and supportive. They work tirelessly to ensure that every student feels valued and empowered, both academically and socially.
Bernardo
Law PhD
Health and wellbeing
Prioritising your wellbeing is essential for success throughout your research journey.
Our University Wellbeing team can offer support and advice around your mental and physical health. With helpful resources, confidential counselling and access to support networks, our support is tailored to your needs, enabling you to maximise your potential while studying. This includes:
- self-help app iNCLude to support wellbeing
- global mental health network TalkCampus, based around peer support
- wellbeing workshops
- disability support
Professional development
We are committed to making sure you have an excellent experience while you study. This includes offering the support you need to become a future research leader.
- work across disciplines
- collaborate with business, government, and external partners
- increase the reach and impact of your research
- develop your career readiness
Career support
Postgraduate research can lead to a wide range of careers - both inside and outside academia. Many employers are looking for the expertise and high-level skills you will gain during your PhD. These include transferable skills like leadership, project management, and critical thinking.
Our University Careers Service gives a bespoke offering to all students, whatever your career aims. You can access Careers support at Newcastle for up to three years after you graduate, including:
- one-to-one appointments
- networking opportunities
- skills development
- advice about setting up your own business
As a postgraduate research student at Newcastle, you can also connect with the hundreds of organisations that visit our campus each year. These visits include recruitment fairs, presentations and workshops.
NUSU Academic Officer
The Newcastle University Students’ Union Academic Officer is dedicated to making sure our students get the best possible academic experience - championing their right to high-quality teaching, fair assessments, and strong academic support.
Passionate about postgraduate interests, they actively campaign for an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all.
By engaging directly with students, the Academic Officer ensures our students have a powerful voice in shaping their education and future.
I've received a lot of research guidance and wellbeing support from my supervisors, and my School has provided key information about training and funding opportunities.
Alice
Modern Languages PhD