MIRIAD Research Degree Handbook 2015-2016

www.miriad.mmu.ac.uk 1

MIRIAD research degreeshandbook 2015 – 2016

2 MIRIAD research degrees handbook 2014 - 2015

Contents1. Orientation

2. Inductions

3. Key contacts

4. Facilities

5. Research Environment

6. Enrolment and Registration

7. Research Degree Options and Timescales

8. Forms Required for Registration

9. Working with your Supervisory Team

10. Updating your Contact Details

11. Other Forms Explained

12. University and Faculty Support for Study

13. International Students

14. Submitting your Thesis

15. Viva Voce Examination and Afterward

16. Acronym Buster and Glossary


This Handbook is a source of information on matters specific to research degrees within this art and design Faculty. It contains advice about the essential regulations, forms and procedures that you will encounter during the course of your degree. It also contains some guidance on orientation to the All Saints South Campus, and the research environment that it offers.

As this is a faculty handbook, it is designed to be read alongside the University Handbook provided at enrolment, and the web-based information accessible through the University’s Graduate School web site: www2.mmu.ac.uk/ graduate-school/. While studying at MMU, you are covered by the University’s Institutional Code of Practice and the Regulations for Postgraduate Research Programmes. A printed copy of these documents is available at enrolment, but they are easily accessed from the Graduate School web site. Follow the link from the Graduate School Intranet to ‘Regulations, Code of Practice & Supporting Material.’ The code applying to new students is dated 2015-16, and the regulations that apply are dated 2013-14.

We hope that you will have a positive and productive time in MIRIAD. MIRIAD’s staff team are interested in ensuring the high quality of your experience here, and will welcome your comments and suggestions throughout your period of study.

Welcome to the research community at MIRIAD in the Manchester School of Art at MMU.

2 MIRIAD research degrees handbook 2015 – 2016

1. Orientation

If new to Manchester, or to MMU, here are some basic points of reference – the locations and functions of relevant university buildings, and places to meet other research students and staff.

(i) All Saints South Campus. Alongside Oxford Road, the campus is clustered around All Saints Park; the park was named after the church that formerly occupied the site. Some of the buildings are named after former Vice-Chancellors and other worthies. Proceeding counter-clockwise around the campus, the relevant buildings are:

- All Saints Building [1] housing Student and Academic Services (SAS) including MMU International; and the Sir Kenneth Green Library in the same block.

- Business School & Student Hub [3]. Access to the Burslem Building [15] which houses the Law School is from the Business School.

- Ormond Building [13] which houses the Research and Knowledge Exchange unit; this is entered through the Cavendish North building on Cavendish Street [5].

- Cavendish South [6] home of the Hollings Faculty. - Righton Building [14], home of MIRIAD and the

postgraduate research programme. - Grosvenor Building [9], purpose-built in 1880 as the

School of Art. This contains the Holden Gallery. Attached by the classical façade of the former Chorlton Town Hall is Mabel Tylecote Building [12]. This will be the site of a new building to house the Theatre, Special Collections and other public-facing activities. While the new build is

in progress, Number 70 located north of the Campus on Oxford Road will house many of its functions.

- Geoffrey Manton Building [8] houses the faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and also the Research Administration Office.

- Benzie Building, the new Art School building [7] is linked to Chatham Building [7] housing the Manchester School of Architecture and the Faculty administration, accessed from the same entrance.

(ii) Campus food and drink. Several refectories and cafes are provided on the All Saints South Campus: All Saints Snack Bar, Art School Café (Benzie Building), the Hub Kitchen and Hub Café (Business School), and Atrium Café (Geoffrey Manton). In addition, there are vending machines in most buildings, including our own Holden Café in the Gallery. A complete list can be found at: www. mmu2.ac.uk /food/

(iii) The All Saints environs. On the pavement, outside All Saints Park, private concessions operate a fruit and vegetable stand and a burger van during term time. Across Oxford Road, there is a range of coffee bars, pubs and eateries. On the Eighth Day [A] is a shop and café offering wholefoods. The key postgraduate hangouts in this area are The Sand Bar [B] and Trof [C], both on Grosvenor Street; the Marriot Pantry [D]. The Salutation pub [E] and the new Students’ Union [F] are located west of Benzie Building.

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(iv) Books and stationery: The Precinct Centre, south of the Geoffrey Manton Building, past the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) on Oxford Road, houses Blackwell’s Bookshop serving the Universities of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan. The Precinct Centre also contains a stationery shop. An occasional street stall on Oxford Road offers second-hand books.

(v) Banks and post office: The nearest cash machine is in the Students’ Union. The closest Post Office (0.5 miles) is located in a shop at 170 Stretford Road, Hulme, M15 5TL. A larger office with full facilities is at 26 Spring Gardens, M2 1BB in the city centre (1 mile).

(vi) Child care: The closest child-care facility to the University is Paintpots Nursery on Charles Street north of the campus. This is a licensed nursery that is Ofsted approved, so it is able to accept babies of three months through to children aged five. E-mail: [email protected]

2. Induction

Induction is a formal introduction to the University, proven to be the best way to impart essential information to new students and to answer their immediate questions. The induction process also offers an opportunity to meet other postgraduate researchers, and to be introduced to the Director of MIRAD, the Faculty Research Degrees Coordinator, the administrative team, and MIRIAD staff researchers.

Two separate inductions are offered. The first is a one-day induction provided by the MMU Graduate School at the start of each academic term. One attendance at this induction is required in order to complete the registration for your degree, and students will not be permitted to re-enrol until participation in an Induction Day has been recorded. Inductions are scheduled for 21 September, 31 October and 23 November 2015. For more information, check the Graduate School website: www.mmu2.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the link from For Research Students to Starting a Research Degree to find the induction description and booking form. Inductions for 2016 are scheduled on 22 January, 25 February, 26 May and 11 July.

The second induction is faculty-specific, and is offered at the beginning of each academic year. It runs over the course of two days that combine social with informational sessions: 30 September and 1 October 2015. These are designed to provide an introduction to the nature of research, an outline of the research training available through MIRIAD, guidance on the managing your research, and an overview of some research resources available at MMU. This induction is also a chance to get to know key MIRIAD staff, to meet other postgraduate students, and to find out about student support services on offer. Successful applicants for postgraduate degrees will receive a schedule for the MIRIAD induction in an August mailing, and it will also be posted on the Faculty website at that time.

Issuing of student ID cards. ID cards can be picked up from the Student Hub in Geoffrey Manton Building, open weekdays 8.30-18.30. Please ensure you have completed the on-line portion of enrolment 24 hours in advance of picking up the card. The card is important as it acts as your library card and needs to be swiped for entry to MMU libraries and other buildings. It also serves as a payment card that can be topped up to pay for printing and materials (see: GPAS). If your card is lost, report this as soon as possible at any Student Hub.

Student email accounts. On enrolment, your student email account becomes activated. This is accessed using your student ID number and a default password based on your date of birth. You can then change the default password. Using your student email address protects the privacy and security of your private e-mail accounts, and it is the address to which official university notices will be sent. Therefore, even if you use a private email account for day-to-day correspondence, you should check your student email at least on a weekly basis. A weekly circular notifying relevant exhibitions, events and conferences goes out on the student email. All official communications with your supervisory team, research degrees administrator, and the university will come through your student email address or your postal address. It is possible to set up your student emails to be forwarded to a private e-mail address; this is done by using the Tools> Options> Organise emails selections then set the forwarding through the Inbox Rules.


3. Key Contacts

Head of Faculty Research Degrees: Professor Jim AulichRighton Building, Room 111email: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1928

Faculty Research Administrator (Art & Design): Dan O’ConnorGeoffrey Manton Building, Room 212email: adhlssresearch [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 4609

Student Research Methods Support Officer: Dr Barbara Rawlings, Honorary Fellow, Department of Sociology, University of Manchester Use postgraduate noticeboard in MIRIAD Open Space to sign up for weekly sessions. email: [email protected]

Deputy Head of Faculty Research Degrees: Dr Amanda RavetzRighton Building, Room 108 email: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 4606

Faculty Student Support Officer: Rochelle MorrisChatham Building, Room 201, email: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1711

Postgraduate Student Representatives: John WalshBenzie Building, Room 206email: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1590 OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS: Director of MIRIAD: Professor John HyattRighton Building, Room 113ae-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1900

Research and Knowledge Exchange: Clare Holdcroft, Graduate School ManagerOrmond Building, 2nd floore-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1062

Research Training Co-ordinator: Dr Myna TrustramRighton Building, Room 111, email: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1118

Tuesday Talks Programme Co-ordinator: Professor Pavel BüchlerRighton Building, Room G17e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1911

Postgraduate Student Handbook Editor: Dr Philip Sykas, Research AssociateRighton Building, Room 101 email: [email protected] Tel. 0161 247 3530

Workshop Access: Marion Poulton, Technical Group ManagerChatham Building e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1113

Health and Safety Advisor4th Floor, All Saints Building e-mail: [email protected] Tel. 0161 247 3317

Credit Control Financial Office, Cavendish South Room CG02e-mail: [email protected] Tel. 0161 247 1852 For more information, see www.finance.mmu.ac.uk/students

Immigration and Welfare Team: Nicola Ross and Rebecca Bradley Business School e-mail: [email protected] Tel. 0161 247 1022 (option 3). Drop-in hours: Tuesday and Thursday 9.15-11.15am and 13.15-15.15pm. Sign in first at the Business School Student Hub


4. Facilities

MIRIAD is located on the first floor of Righton Building. This was purpose-built as a dress warehouse for William Righton in 1905 and preserves many original features. As with other areas of the All Saints campus, WiFi is available throughout the building.

(i) Postgraduate student space: Where you choose to study on campus will depend on your own preferences and requirements. Several useful study and social spaces are provided specifically for our postgraduate students in Righton Building. The building is entered through the door on Cavendish Street. At the back, there is a lift that can give disabled access to the first floor but assistance is required. The building is open from 8.30 to 20.00, Monday to Thursday (closing at 19.00 on Friday) during term time, with reduced hours during term breaks; it is closed weekends and public holidays. After 16.30, access is by swiping your ID card.

MIRIAD Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) have the use of two en-suite secure office spaces in Righton Building (Rooms 114 and 115). There are pigeon-holes outside this room where postgraduates can receive post; these are arranged alphabetically by surname. The MIRIAD Open Space has tables and chairs that can be arranged for workshops, meetings, study or socialising. You are asked to keep conversation within these spaces within reasonable volumes, recognising the needs of others. It is normal etiquette to leave study areas when using mobile phones. There are small lockers available for the personal use of postgraduate students on a first-come first-served basis, bookable for the academic year. These are mainly located on both floors of Righton in the corridor spaces. See the Faculty Research Administrator for booking and keys.

Righton has a small communal kitchen on the ground floor near the staircase. There is a refrigerator, kettle, coffee-maker and cupboard space to keep your coffee and tea. Please respect others by keeping the kitchen tidy, ensuring that perishable foods are cleared away promptly, and washing-up your cups, plates and cutlery.

The 5th floor of Chatham Building is available for the use of all postgraduate students, both taught MA/MFA and research students. This space can be used for any learning activities, but unlike the MIRIAD space, it is also suitable for practice-based making activity. Note however that work must be cleared away after each use. There is also a cross-disciplinary space provided by the Graduate School for all research students in The Shed, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD.

(ii) Bookable Rooms and Spaces. Room 103 is a meeting and viewing space that can be booked on your behalf by any member of your supervisory team through the University’s web-based room booking system. The MIRIAD Open Space is a multifunctional space that serves for meetings, events and small-scale exhibitions. There is a sign-up diary for this space that you can use to reserve the space if the time you want is free. If your purpose is for exhibition, you will need to check with current users of hanging or display spaces to arrange to free these up. In the event of any conflict, MIRIAD’s Director holds authority over use of the space.

(iii) Photocopying, scanning and printing: There are two multifunctional printer/ scanner/ photocopiers in the MIRIAD Open Space operated on the ID card swipe system. Payment is handled electronically through credit that can be loaded onto your University ID card at pink kiosks located in All Saints Library foyer, and on the ground floor of Chatham Building outside the A4 and More Store (see below). But perhaps the easiest way to top up your account is on line, see: https://my.mmu.ac.uk. Scanning to your student email is free but you must have credit in your account to use the service. There are also multi-functional machines in All Saints Library and other buildings; some machines print black & white only and are clearly labelled. Large format printing can be done self-service on machines in Benzie Building. Printing can also be done by IT Service Print Services located in the John Dalton Workshop (No. 11 on the map); several days are usually required for completion. Prices are based on the size of print, type of paper and ink coverage. Contact [email protected] or telephone 0161 247 3422 for more information (7.00-18.00).

(iv) Faculty shops: Many stationery items and art materials can be obtained on campus through various shops that are managed centrally, but have varying locations and opening times. The A4 and More Store (Chatham Room 14, ground floor) sells paper and computer consumables, as well as providing binding services. It also sells tokens that allow the purchase of materials from the Wood workshop and the Metal workshop. The Fabric Store (in the same location) offers a wide range of fabrics, haberdashery and sewing requisites. Opening hours are 9.00-18.00, but the Fabric Store is closed for an hour over lunchtime. See: http://www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/resources/stores/ for more information. The Students’ Union shop carries a range of basic art supplies for drawing and painting.


(v) Workshops: The faculty workshops are centralised within the Benzie Building and the adjoining Chatham Building. The workshops are a particularly important part of undergraduate and taught postgraduate programmes, and there are times when these will have priority. Postgraduate researchers should discuss workshop needs with their supervisors and make appropriate arrangements for workshop inductions and access. For more information about the workshop facilities that are available, see: www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/resources/workshop

(vi) Exhibition spaces: There are a number of exhibition spaces at the All Saints South campus with varying availability and regulatory control. A comprehensive list has not yet been compiled. You should discuss your exhibition needs with your supervisors, and assistance can be given with contacts and timetabling. Within the Righton Building is the MIRIAD Open Space (see above). The Vertical Gallery in the Benzie Building offers a wide range of spaces for exhibition that are shown in an information pack at: www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/resources/galleries/

(vii) Visual Resources Centre and Downing Collection: The Visual Resources Centre is located on the main floor of Grosvenor Building, Room G22, and open 9.00-16.30 Monday – Thursday, and 9.00-12.00 on Friday. The Centre provides image-related support services to students and staff. It can help with photography, digitisation, and transfer of media. The Centre also provides access to several important image collections: the Design Council Slide Collection, and Manchester School of Art images and videos built up through decades of teaching and research at MMU. You can see a selection of images from the collection on Flickr www.flickr.com/photos/mmuvisualresources/ For further information, see: www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/visualresources/. Contact: Visual Resources Curator, John Davis, e-mail: [email protected] Tel. 0161 247 1929. The Visual Resources Centre may be incorporated into the Library Special Collection during the course of the year. The Downing Collection, located in Righton Room 101, comprises a small but important group of museum-quality textiles and textile designs, mainly sourced from Manchester’s industrial past. Access is by appointment. Contact: Dr Philip Sykas, email: [email protected] Tel. 0161 247 3530.

(viii) MMU Library Special Collections. Located on the 3rd floor of the main library building, these collections include historical works from the Manchester School of Art, important groups of artists’ books and children’s books, rare books, Victorian paper ephemera, and the renowned Schmoller Collection of decorated papers. It is open weekdays between 10 and 4pm, with a late night Thursday and Saturday afternoon opening during term time. Contact: e-mail [email protected] Tel. 0161 247 6107.

(ix) University Catering Outlets:

All Saints Snack Bar: on the ground floor of the All Saints Building.

Art School Café: on the ground floor of the Benzie Building.

Holden Café: Grosvenor Building, is a faculty-run self-service café in the historic setting of the original School of Art Building (erected 1880); it offers drinks and snacks from vending machines.

The Hub Kitchen: on the ground floor of the Business School – Student Hub Building.

Atrium Café: on the ground floor of Geoffrey Manton at the far end of the Atrium.

See: www.mmu2.ac.uk/food for a full list with opening hours.


5. Research Environment

MMU is among the leading new universities in art and design, and the Manchester School of Art provides an environment conducive to a broad range of study. The Faculty is known for being receptive to practice-based and multidisciplinary research, alongside theoretical, historical and visual research fields. A research degree can be taken in any of the wide range of subjects in which the faculty offers qualified supervision. As a MIRIAD research student, you are part of a diverse research community exploring broad themes in the fields of art and design that are structured under six discipline-based research groups: Architecture, Art, Craft, Design, Media, and Visual Culture, as well as four thematic groups: Arts and Health, Asian Cultures, Future Living and Future Technologies.

The nationwide Research Excellence Framework (REF) of 2013 ranked our Art and Design research sixth out of 84 other UK institutions. Naturally, the activities of our post-graduate researchers contribute to the environment that sustains this success. From its inception in 2013, MMU has been a member of the North West Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership (NWCDTP) that was awarded £14 million by the Arts and Humanities Research Council for around 200 PhD studentships. Alongside MMU in the Partnership are the Universities of Manchester, Keele, Lancaster, Liverpool, Salford and the Royal Northern College of Music. The faculty recruits students for these funded studentships annually, within the AHRC criteria, and nominates them for the award. Posts are advertised on the MMU website.

The Faculty also participates in cross-faculty partnerships within and outside the University. In 2009, MIRIAD secured an AHRC grant to develop research training for staff and students in the broad conceptual framework of the creative arts and industries. The success of the scheme has led to its continuance in a legacy body known as PARC North West. Participants include researchers in music, art and design, creative writing and critical aesthetics from across the North West region. This brings together MMU Art and Design, Architecture, Creative Writing, and Fashion Business & Technology, alongside ten other regional universities: Royal Northern College of Music, Glyndwr (Wrexham) Art & Design, Liverpool John Moores Art & Design, University of Central Lancashire Art & Design, University of Chester Art & Design, University of Salford Art & Design/Media, University of Bolton Art & Design, University of Cumbria Art & Design, University of Lancaster Creative Writing, and Edge Hill University Art & Design .

Not the least part of our research environment is due to our situation in the City of Manchester, with its sister universities, excellent museums and galleries, the North West Film Archive, and a thriving culture of music, theatre, architecture, street fashion and small enterprises.

(i) Research Libraries MMU’s Library system incorporates one of the best art libraries in the UK, with a wide range of subscriptions (paper and electronic), a far-ranging exhibition catalogue collection, and rare holdings of art and design books going back to our nineteenth century origins. The electronic resources of the Library include many text and image databases. The special collections area holds significant collections of artists’ books, bookbindings, children’s books, paper ephemera, decorated paper, and decorative arts of the Arts & Crafts era. Changing exhibitions highlighting this material take place in the Library Foyer and the 3rd Floor Gallery.

The large holdings of the John Rylands Library of the University of Manchester, the historic Rylands Library in Deansgate (rare books and manuscripts), the Joule Library (technology), the Chetham Library (local history), and other academic libraries are also open to MMU postgraduates upon application. Apply on-line for a SCONUL card to enable entry (Society of College, National and University Libraries): www.sconul.ac.uk/sconul-access. These bibliographic riches are extended by the wide-ranging collections of the city’s Central Library, one of the oldest free libraries in the country. The city’s Central Reference Library has recently been completely refurbished and provided with new archive facilities, including the North West Film Archive.

(ii) MIRIAD Researcher Development Programme MIRIAD’s Researcher Development Programme is concerned with helping postgraduate research students to acquire the skills needed not only to manage their research, but also their subsequent careers. There are four strands to the programme: research training, skills development, research support and external training opportunities.

The Research Training Programme is delivered in lectures, seminars and workshop sessions taking place on Wednesdays 13.30-15.00 during term time. These are designed to assist students with key stages in their research, and to provide examples of good practice. This is a lively programme that continues to develop each year in response to needs expressed by students.

Skills development includes work on creative academic writing as well as student-led projects. For the complete programme, look for the booklet entitled “Researcher Development Programme 2015-2016.”


(iii) MIRIAD Research Groups Postgraduate researchers are Associate Members of

MIRIAD, and are encouraged to be active in at least one of the ten MIRIAD Research Groups most appropriate to their study: Architecture, Art, Crafts, Design, Media, and Visual Culture, Arts and Health, Asian Cultures, Future Living, and Future Technologies. Research groups usually meet about six times a year. They are the grass roots base for much of the development of MIRIAD’s programmes. They also provide peer review of grant applications, and mutual advice and support on research issues. It is a chance to meet on the same level with senior researchers, early career researchers, teaching staff undertaking research degrees, and fellow postgraduates, and make your contribution to our research environment.

(iv) Researchers’ Weekly Bulletin During term time, an electronic bulletin is provided highlighting new developments in electronic resources for research. Often there are trial subscriptions to new electronic databases, and there are also announcements of training opportunities. For example, the Library promotes the use of the bibliographic software tool, End Note, and provides regular training sessions in its use. Send a request by e-mail to Mary Pickstone [email protected] for the bulletin to be sent to your electronic address. A blog and archive of past bulletins is found at www.library.mmu.ac.uk/rwbb/

(v) VITAE Vitae is a national organisation championing the personal, professional and career development of postgraduate researchers and research staff in higher education and research institutes. Its web home www.vitae.ac.uk is a thriving site with national news, research advice, and online community forums. It has regular threads on the issues facing research students in UK institutions and hosts several useful training seminars. The site offers research tips aimed at different stages of research student work, and the Researcher Development Framework to assist personal development and monitor progress.

(vi) Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) and the Graduate School

MMU Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) offers an important support to our postgraduate researchers. Its offices are located in the Ormond Building reached by the Cavendish North entrance. RKE administers the MMU Graduate School, and deals with University-wide postgraduate research issues that require referral from the Faculties. It provides an induction for new students, runs a generic Research Skills programme, and hosts an annual University-wide postgraduate research conference.

RKE also develops and monitors the Code of Practice and Regulations for Postgraduate Research Programmes at MMU. This is available on the Graduate School website under Graduate School Intranet: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/regulations-cop-supporting-material/ The Code is updated annually, but new students will use the most current regulations which are 2013-14. Some aspects of the recent regulations also apply retrospectively to prior students, such as those to do with appointment of examiners. Also from this website page, you can access the Research Student Handbook which provides advice applicable University-wide (click on the tab: Supporting Materials). You can use all these documents in conjunction with this Handbook for further guidance. The Code is the ultimate authority on all procedures from registration to submission, and from misconduct to complaints. It is a good idea to scan the table of contents so that you are familiar with what it contains in case you may need to use it in more detail at some point. All the necessary forms covering your study at MMU can be viewed and downloaded from the Graduate School web site, conveniently grouped under the heading “Online Forms”. Under “For Research Students”, the website also provides a link to the online Research Students Community with access to the research student Moodle area, and the Graduate School student Facebook page, and the latest Tweets.

RKE offers a support framework for postgraduate research students at MMU, partly entailed in the Graduate School Workshops which run throughout the academic year, giving advice on aspects of study from planning, through time management to presentation skills and building CVs. For more information on the Programme for the current academic year, see the Graduate School intranet under “Research Students Development”.

RKE’s Graduate School Manager is Clare Holdcroft ([email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1062). Amongst her duties, she helps to plan and run the Annual Research Student Conference at MMU. This conference gives postgraduates from across the University the opportunity to meet each other and discuss research experiences, as well as presenting papers on their research topics to a supportive audience of peers. The next conference is “Innovation”, 5 November 2015. The call for papers closes on the 4th September. RKE offers a conference funding programme to assist PGR’s to present their work at national or international conferences. Check the website under “For Research Students” for the application procedure. Only one application per student per year is allowed.

The impact of research beyond the confines of academia is strongly emphasised by the national research councils. RKE supports the view that research and knowledge exchange are not separate activities, but part of a continuum that involves promoting the usefulness of research through public engagement, and the dissemination of research to a wider public. Knowledge


Transfer Partnerships (KTP) are a formalised way of carrying out research with direct relevance to other sectors, see www.ktponline.org.uk for more information. Sam Gray, who formerly headed the Beacons for Public Engagement programme can assist in developing community links and the communication skills needed in working outside academia. Contact Sam Gray: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 1664.

(vii) Postgraduate Courses (taught MA/ MFA programmes): The taught MA/ MFA programmes expand the postgraduate population at MMU, adding to the lively atmosphere of exhibitions, discussion and debate. The Art and Design Faculty offers taught MA and/or MFA degrees in Animation, Architecture, Architecture and Urbanism, Collaborative Practice, Contemporary Curating, Contemporary Visual Culture, Design Cultures, Design (Ceramics/ Furniture/ Glass/ Jewellery/ LAB), Drawing, Embroidery, Fashion (Graphics/ Knitwear/ Menswear/ Womenswear), Film and Media Studies, Filmmaking, Fine Art, Graphic Design and Art Direction, Illustration, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Photography, Product Design, Textile Practice, and Textiles for Fashion.

The MA Design LAB connects to the design industry through a college of sponsors. Students work on live projects alongside designers and design consultancies to gain experience of pitching ideas to industry professionals. Link placements and projects with up to 25 of the region’s key arts and media organisations are a key strength of the programme. Master classes also form part of the teaching, together with tutorials, seminars and technical workshops.

See: www.art.mmu.ac.uk/postgraduate/ for current information about taught postgraduate programmes.


6. Enrolment and Registration

For Postgraduate Research Degree students, an important distinction is made between ‘enrolment’ and ‘registration’. At first sight, this may appear confusing, but it is usual for universities to distinguish between the mere procedural matter of enrolment and the stage at which a research proposal is accepted.

Enrolment: This process is required to begin study, and enrolment must be annually renewed up to the point of conferment of the degree. Enrolment takes place during the first two weeks of each term; and re-enrolment during the first two weeks of the autumn term: 21 September to 2 October 2015. It is at enrolment that personal details held by the University are updated, and fees become due (although no further tuition fees are required after submission of the thesis – unless you are required to resubmit after examination). Enrolment entitles you to a student identity card that enables you to access University resources, and to meet with your supervisory team. PLEASE NOTE: It is your responsibility to re-enrol on an annual basis at the start of each academic year. If a candidate should fail to re-enrol by 15th October in any year, they will be deemed to have withdrawn themselves and their registration will be cancelled.

Registration: This is the procedure for gaining approval of your research proposal. Current regulations require you to submit your proposal within 3 months of your first enrolment (or 6 months for part-time students). The precise time for submitting will depend on the MMU Academic Board Research Degrees Committee (RDC) meetings, held on a monthly basis, but submission is normally four weeks in advance of the intended meeting date. In order to register for a research degree, a proposal which outlines your subject, the research question(s) to be addressed, the methodology to be used in addressing those questions, and the aims and objectives of the project, must be approved by the RDC. Because of the time limit, it is important that you contact your Director of Studies promptly after enrolment to discuss how to proceed with your proposal. Usually your first supervisory meetings will be centred on preparation of the proposal.

Proposals for Registration are submitted on a University RD1 form that can be downloaded from the Graduate School web site. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Registration. Most students will register for “MPhil/PhD” which is the standard route for the PhD which involves a transfer stage after the first year. Your will find the proposal commonly referred to as your RD1. Please read the guidance notes specific to your proposed degree before embarking on writing your proposal. You will also have to submit an Ethics Check form with your proposal, having discussed the ethical implications of your research with your Director of Studies. This is a MIRIAD form available from the Art and Design Research Administrator. The health and safety implications of your research also need to be considered, and will require a risk assessment to be carried out with respect to any substances, processes or situations that pose a significant risk. See: Section 16 under ‘Ethics and Consent Forms’ for more details.

The curriculum vitae of each of your supervisors needs to be held by the University, so you may need to send RDCV forms to any supervisors not yet on file. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Approval of Examiners. See Section 8 of this handbook for a full checklist of possible needs.

Once you have written your research proposal, completed the registration form appropriate to your proposed research degree, checked the ethical implications of your research with your Director of Studies, it is a good idea to run over your registration forms with your Director of Study to make sure all is in order. You are then ready to submit the whole package to the Faculty Research Administrator for consideration at the next Research Degrees Committee (RDC) meeting. It is required that your proposal package is submitted four weeks prior to the monthly meeting dates of the RDC.

What happens to your submission from here? The Administrator will pass your forms to two Faculty scrutineers who will then read your proposal, and report on it. Both your submission and the scrutineers’ reports will then be passed to the Head of Faculty Research Degrees for adjudication. If there are weaknesses, the proposal may be referred back for revisions at this stage, but if judged academically sound and viable, a recommendation will be forwarded to the RDC. The recommendation, along with the proposal and reports will be presented to the RDC where they can be discussed, and a prevailing decision taken. In most cases, faculty-level scrutiny of the proposal should ensure the appropriate standard for Committee approval. Students will be notified of the resulting decisions as soon as possible following the RDC meeting at which their application for registration is considered.


What happens if my proposal for registration is referred?Referral, in this context, means referring back to you and your Supervisory Team for necessary revisions or further work. If your proposal is referred, the Head of Faculty Research Degrees (or, if necessary, the Research Degrees Committee) will provide comments stating what the weaknesses are, advice on how to improve the submission and relevant comments from the scrutineers’ reports. Often, you will see the Scruntineers’ reports in full. This will guide you toward improvements so as to achieve the required standard to demonstrate your readiness to commence the research. In the event of a referral, it is important that you arrange promptly to meet with your Director of Studies to discuss how to proceed with your re-submission. It is in your interest to make the amendments in a timely way, and resubmit so that your proposal can make the next Committee meeting. Re-submissions will not necessarily go through the full scrutiny process again.

Please note that it is not uncommon for RD1’s to be referred, but they are usually successful on resubmission. A referral should not be seen in any way as a failure, but rather as an opportunity to strengthen your research aims and methods so that you will be able to progress your research more effectively.

What happens in relation to the three-month time limit (six-months part-time) if I’m ill, or there are other extenuating circumstances?If there are genuine circumstances which prevent you from submitting a successful application for registration within the stipulated three-month period from enrolment, you may apply to the RDC to temporarily suspend your studies or seek an extension. In such a case, a supporting statement from your Director of Studies is required, so you must discuss the matter with your DoS as soon as you are able. When the time eventually comes to submit the application for registration, exceptional backdating must be requested in respect of the period of suspension or extension.

Timing: for the academic year 2015-2016, the scheduled meetings of the RDC are as follows:

Please note that although meetings average five weeks apart, they vary between four and seven weeks apart due to holidays and term breaks.

RDC meetings to consider submissions Completed forms must be submitted to Faculty Research Degrees Administrator no later than:

Monday 28 September 2015 Wednesday 31 August 2015

Wednesday 21 October 2015 Wednesday 23 September 2015

Wednesday 18 November 2015 Wednesday 21 October 2015

Wednesday 16 December 2015 Wednesday 18 November 2015

Wednesday 20 January 2016 Wednesday 16 December 2015

Wednesday 24 February 2016 Wednesday 27 January 2016

Wednesday 23 March 2016 Wednesday 24 February 2016

Wednesday 20 April 2016 Wednesday 23 March 2016

Wednesday 18 May 2016 Wednesday 20 April 2016

Wednesday 29 June 2016 Wednesday 1 June 2016


7. Research Degrees: Options and Timescales

Postgraduate studyDoctorates are awarded for creating, interpreting and communicating knowledge that extends the forefront of a discipline or an area of professional practice, usually through original research and critical thinking. To achieve the award, the candidate will have demonstrated extensive scholarship in their discipline or area of practice, and shown mastery of subject-specific intellectual skills. Recipients of doctorates will have the skills necessary for a research career, or for employment in a leading capacity in a relevant area of professional practice. Transferable skills will include the ability to make informed judgements on complex issues in specialist fields, independence in formulating and evaluating ideas, and the ability to communicate with professional colleagues on current issues and scholarship in their discipline. Holders of doctorates will be able to conceptualize, design and implement projects for the generation of new knowledge or understanding.

Master’s degrees in research entail a similar range of learning outcomes, but the emphasis is on interpreting and communicating knowledge rather than its discovery or creation. The recipient of a master’s degree is not expected to work with the same level of independence as the PhD. Holders of the master’s degree will have the skills required to undertake research at a higher level, and to continue their professional development toward a research career, or for employment in an intermediate capacity in a relevant area of professional practice. Transferable skills will include the ability to evaluate the work of others, to make effective decisions in complex situations, and to critically engage in a contribution to their discipline or professional practice.

Candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) usually possess a Master’s degree or equivalent. Typically, students wishing to undertake doctoral study register for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) with a view to transferring to PhD following successful approval of a transfer report after 12 months full-time or 18 months part-time study. Traditionally, the PhD study was evaluated solely through a written thesis, but now the thesis can also include the candidate’s creative work. In addition, there are a number of alternative routes to the degree available at MMU: PhD by Published Work (Routes 1 & 2) and PhD by Practice (Route 3). A candidate for routes 1, 2 or 3 should already possess research training to a master’s level.

PhD by thesis (Traditional route)The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is taken by candidates who have completed an appropriate programme of research during at least thirty-three months of full-time study. This route requires submission of a written thesis. The study can consist entirely of text-based research, or it can include practice-based work. Text based research is presented in a thesis up to 80,000 words (excluding ancillary matter such as footnotes, bibliographies, diagrams and references).

Practice-based theses will include creative work alongside a written component in the range of 30,000 to 40,000 words. The new Code of Practice requires that the text must be written and examined in English. The thesis must be presented in the designated format.

There is a period of 12 months maximum between submission of the thesis and conferment of the degree to allow for revisions, corrections, etc.

Submission Conferment full-time 36 months 48 months part-time 72 months 84 months PhD by Published Work (Route 1) This route to a PhD is for candidates who have acquired considerable experience of research and who have produced one or more substantial research publications. During the period of enrolment, the candidate will produce additional publications under the guidance of a supervisory team.

The publications submitted as part of a PhD by Published Work must provide evidence of the candidate’s capacity to pursue further research, represent an original and significant contribution to knowledge in a given field, and demonstrate depth of scholarship, and critical capacity in keeping with national levels.

Publications may include a variety of outputs, such as: • books where the candidate is a substantial or sole

contributor, • chapters in books, • articles in refereed journals, • conference papers published in proceedings or

otherwise, • patent applications or granted patents, • exhibitions or performances of which a permanent

record has been made, and is publicly available. Academic, industrial or governmental documents produced for internal purposes are not eligible. At least 60% of the publications the candidate wishes to submit as part of the PhD should have been published within two years prior to application for the degree. Candidates need to ensure that the number and range of publications is sufficient to demonstrate that their work is of doctoral standing.


The submission must include an analytical commentary (which forms the equivalent of a thesis), between 10,000 and 15,000 words and which critically explores the relationship between the submitted publications and the current body of knowledge in the field.

This commentary should contain: 1) An abstract (300 words). 2) An introductory section presenting the current state of the

field, comprising a critical overview, a literature review/appraisal, and an indication of how the publications relate to the existing body of knowledge and research methods.

3) A list of the submitted publications and, where appropriate, evidence of publication (where publications are in press, letters of acceptance from the editor or a copy of the publishing contract must be included), and a statement providing a clear indication of the candidate’s contribution to each publication.

4) A critical account of how the publications make a coherent and significant contribution to knowledge and scholarship.

5) A demonstration of critical reflection on methodological issues and an indication of the future direction of research to be carried out by the candidate in the field.

The thesis submission dates and the conferment of award dates are as follows: Submission Conferment full-time 24 months 36 monthspart-time 48 months 60 months

PhD by Published work (Route 2) This route is for candidates either with a strong academic career as evidenced by publication; or who have produced a significant body of work outside a traditional academic context. This body of work must principally be the candidate’s own work. Candidates must be graduates (or equivalent) of at least five years standing, and have already obtained a Masters degree, or be able to show evidence of having received equivalent research training or experience in their working environment. As no formal supervision or additional research is required by this route it is also expected that the candidate’s submission will demonstrate that, through the course of their research they have considerable professional knowledge in their field. The material submitted for the PhD shall provide convincing evidence that the research constitutes a coherent and significant contribution to knowledge or scholarship of at least national standing.

The publications must all be available and accessible in the public domain, must represent a coherent and significant contribution to research in a given field and demonstrate a depth of scholarship and originality comparable with that required in a traditional PhD. The PhD by publication must, through the selection of the papers/works, and an accompanying analytical commentary, demonstrate a contribution to knowledge, and evidence of the development of research skills appropriate to the focus of the research and the knowledge domains within which the research was conducted.

The submission must contain an analytical commentary, normally between 10,000 and 15,000 words, that critically explores the relationship between the published work submitted and the current body of knowledge in the field. The arrangement and content of the analytical commentary is the same as for Route 1: PhD by Published Work. The format of the submitted work may vary and include original material in a range of media: books, articles, performances or exhibitions. The thesis submission dates and the conferment of award dates are as follows:

Submission Conferment full-time 6 months 18 months part-time 12 months 24 months

PhD by Practice (Route 3) This route is suitable for candidates who are established professionals as well as suitably experienced recent postgraduates who are engaged in professional practice in an arts or design field. The research may be carried out in any context of practice: art, design, architecture, media, and craft. The PhD by practice must, through a portfolio of work and an accompanying analytical commentary, demonstrate a contribution to knowledge, and evidence of the development of research skills appropriate to the focus of the research and the knowledge domains within which the research was conducted.

The submission is in two parts: a) the portfolio of work; and b) an analytical commentary (thesis). The portfolio should contain work suitable for professional consumption and/or suitable for peer-reviewed publication. The body of work would be what can be reasonably achieved within three years of postgraduate full-time study or part-time equivalent. The portfolio should contain at least one major extended work or group of works, and should be substantially achieved during the enrolment period. Where the submission involves a performance or exhibition, etc., an archival record of the work should be submitted in the form of photographs, film, video, digital storage medium, or paper record along with the analytical commentary.

The analytical commentary provides evidence for the contribution of the practice to the field (i.e. the level of intellectual engagement, context and originality), and can be constituted in a number of different discursive forms. These might be process-based, personal narratives or traditional academic writing. The analytical commentary should provide a critical reflection on the approaches, methods and theories deployed, an explanation of the technical procedures used, and may also discuss the works’ aesthetic premises in their relevant historical, theoretical or critical contexts.


It should normally be between 10,000 and 30,000 words, and critically explore the relationship between the portfolio of work submitted and the current body of knowledge in the field.

The thesis submission dates and the conferment of award dates are as follows: Submission Conferment full-time 36 months 48 months part-time 72 months 84 months

MASTER’S LEVEL STUDIES

Study undertaken at master’s level explores aspects of knowledge at the forefront of an academic or professional discipline. Students are expected to demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, and to gain understanding of how the boundaries of knowledge are advanced through research. They will be able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, and they will show originality in tackling and solving problems. They will have the qualities needed for enterprise and employment in circumstances requiring sound judgement, personal responsibility and initiative – these while working in complex and unpredictable professional environments.

Master’s by Research (MA)MA degrees gained by research are taken by candidates with Honours degrees (or equivalent) and run for at least one year (if taken full-time).

The text of the MA thesis should normally not exceed 30,000 words (excluding ancillary matter such as footnotes, bibliographies, diagrams and references). When the submission is accompanied by material in other than written form, the written component should normally be within the range of 10,000 – 15,000 words. The MA research can be continued into MPhil study, or exceptionally to PhD, through submission of a transfer report demonstrating that it is capable of development to the higher level (see Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, para. 10 and 11 for further information).


Master of Philosophy (MPhil)The degree of Master of Philosophy entails a longer research programme than the MA degree, allowing greater scope for subject and methods. It is taken by candidates with good Honours degrees and continues for at least eighteen months of full-time study. The MPhil degree can be continued into doctoral study through the acceptance of a Transfer Report.

The text of the MPhil thesis should normally not exceed 40,000 words (excluding ancillary matter such as footnotes, bibliographies, diagrams and references). When the submission is accompanied by material in other than written form, the written component should normally be within the range of 15,000 – 20,000 words.



8. Forms Required for Registration:Registration is the process of submitting a research proposal for formal approval by the University. A full-time student should complete registration for the degree to which they are enrolled no later than 3 months after enrolment (6 months part-time). There is one common registration form for all research degrees. In addition to the completed form, at least four other documents will be needed, plus a range of signatures. Below is a summary checklist of required forms and procedures needed for registration.

Doctor of Philosophy (Traditional route or PhD by Practice Route 3)

RD1: Application to register for the degree of [fill in the blank]. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Registration.

The core of the RD1 is comprised of an outline of your proposal in 1000 words (±100). This will include the academic aims of the investigation, a description of the research to be undertaken, the methods to be used and up to six key references (Attachment to Section 2).

MIRIAD Ethics Check FormThis is used to raise awareness of ethical issues, and to help determine if specific Ethics Approval is required. The Ethics Check is expected for every research project, and must be signed by a member of your Supervisory Team. Any research using human participants, their tissues, data or images requires ethical consideration. Request the form from the Faculty Research Administrator for Art and Design. Supporting documents may be needed to accompany the form, such as an information sheet and consent form for any participants in your research, and copies of any proposed advertisements or questionnaires. In such documents, your proposed research should be described in a way which would enable a layperson to understand the aims and methods (Section 2).

The MMU Application for Ethical Approval form is only used if the Ethics Check indicates this is needed. If ethical issues with your research have been identified, and cannot be resolved on a faculty level, you will need to complete a University Ethical Approval form to be submitted to the University Academic Ethics Committee. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Ethics/ Ethics Forms and Guidance. Other guidance documents are available from the same location on the Graduate School web site. Your plans for addressing the ethical issues raised by your research will then be referred to the Academic Ethics Committee for further consideration (Section 2).

Evidence that appropriate risk assessment(s) have been undertaken. This is an assessment that the risk associated with various hazards to which your research might expose you can either be controlled to an acceptable level, or managed through a risk management process (Section2).

Projected timeline for the project. Part of successful project management is planning your time. At the start, there will be many unknowns, but you should be able to map out significant milestones (Section 2).

When creative work is part of the thesis, you and your Supervisory Team must come to an agreement on the form of submission and the proposed methods of assessment for this work. A record of this agreement is needed (Section 2).

Details of any research to be done outside the UK, including start and end dates. Also, If overseas research is substantial, a statement outlining any special circumstances at the site(s) of the proposed research (Section2).

Section 3 of the RD1 form asks for confirmation of your supporting programme. You should audit your skills using the Vitae Researcher Development Framework, and reach a mutual decision with your supervisory team about a supporting programme to meet any training needs (or possible exemption).

Section 5 of the RD1 PhD gives details of your supervisory team. In order to complete this, you will need to know the proposed members, as each supervisor or advisor (including your Director of Studies) is required to fill out their record of supervision and sign the form. You will need to make arrangements to collect the above signatures, but in cases of difficulty, the DoS can sign for the others.

If a named supervisor’s outline CV is not held in the Faculty (check with Faculty Research Degrees Administrator), they will need to submit an RDCV. It is your responsibility to inform the supervisor that a CV is required and to ensure that the supervisor has access to the RDCV form on which it is to be submitted. This form does not require a signature and can be accessed and sent on-line. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Approval of Examiners. (Section 5)

If your research requires the use of facilities in a collaborating institution, a signature on behalf of the collaborating establishment must be obtained confirming these facilities will be provided. if special access is required from an outside body not covered by a collaboration arrangement, a letter confirming approval is needed (Section 6).

If any facilities or equipment are required in addition to the normal provision of the University, these must be stated, including any relevant “bench fees” (Section 7).

The signature of the Director of MIRIAD is also required to confirm that the necessary resources and facilities are in place to support the proposed research (Section 8).

Evidence of prior training or qualifications if not acquired by the usual academic route (Section 9).

If you have registered a disability or learning need that requires modifications to the approved programme, then a copy of your Personal Learning Plan should be provided (Section 9).


Doctor of Philosophy by Published work (Route 1)

RD1: Application to register for the degree of [fill in the blank]. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Registration. The requirements for Route 1 set out in the RD1 form are the same as for the Traditional route, so you should use the checklist for the Traditional route given above. However, in addition, you will need to document the existing publications that will form the basis for your research. This is done with the RDPUB form:

RDPUB (Route 1 and 2) PhD by published work (route 1/2): Contribution to publicationsThis form is found in the same location as the RD1. It is used to declare the publications submitted with the research proposal. A separate form should be completed for each publication.

Copies of each existing publication (or supporting evidence of published status of creative works) should be provided to your Director of Studies, who must sign the form(s) to confirm the reading and approval of each publication.

Doctor of Philosophy by published work (Route 2)In this case, enrolment follows approval of the application for registration by the Research Degrees Committee, and registration is backdated to begin from the date when the completed registration forms were submitted.

RD1 (PUB2): “Prima-facie” application to register for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy by published work (Route 2) See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Registration.

Please note that under this route, your PhD is supervised by a single Academic Advisor. Your Academic Advisor is required to fill out their record of supervision and sign the form. The form must also be signed by your Head of Department in order to confirm their support and that the necessary resources are available to support your programme of study.

In addition, if the advisor’s outline CV is not held on record in the Faculty (check with Faculty Research Degrees Administrator), they will need to submit an RDCV. It is your responsibility to inform the supervisor that a CV is required and to ensure that the supervisor has access to the RDCV form on which it is to be submitted. This form does not require a signature and can be accessed and sent on-line. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/Approval of Examiners.

The RD1 (PUB2) requires a proposal (1000-2000 words) of the work upon which the thesis is to be based, illustrating clearly the contribution made to knowledge.

RDPUB (Route 1 and 2) PhD by published work Route1/2): Contribution to publications. This form is found at the same location as the RD1. It is used to declare the publications submitted with the research proposal. A separate form should be completed for each publication. The number of publications is not set, but sufficient work should be chosen to constitute a substantial contribution to knowledge.

Copies of each publication (or supporting evidence of published status of creative works) should be provided to your Academic Advisor, who must sign the form(s) to confirm the reading and approval of each publication. For artistic works, it is advisable to submit a photograph of each work and/or copies of the major piece of supporting evidence (exhibition catalogue entry, gallery brochure, etc.).

Master of Philosophy (with the possibility of transfer to Doctor of Philosophy) RD1: Application to register for the degree of [fill in the blank]. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Graduate School Intranet/ Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Registration. The registration requirements for MPhil set out in the RD1 form are the same as for the Traditional PhD route, so you should use the checklist for the Traditional PhD route given above.

Master of Arts by Research RD1: Application to register for the degree of [fill in the blank]. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Registration. The registration requirements for MA by Research set out in the RD1 form are the same as for the Traditional PhD route, so you should use the checklist for the Traditional PhD route given above.


9. Working with your Supervisory Team

Research Degrees students at MMU are supervised by a small team of academic staff, known as the Supervisory Team. Teams are headed by a Director of Studies (DoS), who has overall responsibility for directing the research. The DoS is responsible for ensuring that the research project can be supported within the available resources, can be completed within the prescribed period of study, is suited to the degree undertaken, and complies with University Codes of Practice. The DoS also undertakes monitoring and evaluation of your progress in an annual report, and co-ordinates the forms associated with the administrative progress of your degree. Persons qualified to act as DoS will have experience in supervising doctoral degrees, and a confident overview of the academic research process.

In addition to the DoS, the supervisory team normally includes two additional academic staff each of whom may have specialist knowledge in different aspects of the research project. A research student may have some idea of who they wish to study with before enrolment, and can indicate preferences for their supervisory team. However, the DoS is responsible for the composition of the supervisory team, ensuring that appropriate areas of expertise are represented, that team members have appropriate supervisory experience, and that they do not have a close personal or professional relationship with each other or with the student. The composition of the supervisory team is confirmed when the Research Degrees Committee approves a student’s application for registration. Should it become necessary, there is a procedure to apply for an addition or replacement of a member of the supervisory team: see RD3 in Section 11 below.

The frequency and variety of contact of the student with supervisors will vary depending on the stage of study, usually being more frequent in the early and later stages of the degree. Supervisory time would normally be about 150 hours per year per team, which allows for an average of two supervisory meetings per term across the period of study of a full-time student (including attendant reading and preparation). Teams are expected to meet on a regular basis to review progress and plan future actions. Team meetings are most productive when the student submits a piece of work to all team members for consideration, and meetings are often timed in accordance with such submissions. It is the student’s responsibility to arrange the meetings. Please note that the student is expected to make some form of contact every 3 months as a minimum.

The team provides you with different types of input as your research unfolds, and if one member of your team is unavailable (through illness or their own research leave) you have others to consult who are familiar with your work and your ideas, as well as to assist with any difficulties or issues that have arisen in the course of the work. One meeting each year may be timed to handle preparation for the Annual Review (RDAR). You may feel free to consult with any members of your team whenever the need arises outside of scheduled meetings. If you feel the advice given to you by different team members is contradictory, you are advised to seek resolution through your Director of Studies. If necessary, a meeting may be called to clarify the direction you are advised to take.

For research of a specialised nature, an external advisor may be brought into the supervisory team. Communication with the external advisor is normally less often and for specific needs. As there is a monetary obligation on the part of the University for external advisors, there must be a strong reason for their inclusion on your team, often when this provides an institutional or industrial link that is important to the research.

Your first meetingAt the beginning of your first year, it is expected that you will have an initial meeting with your Director of Studies and supervisory team in order to establish several preliminary aspects of your study. These will include discussion of the subject, scope and aims of your research, and the requirements for registration. Also, if there is an element of practice in your final submission, the format of the final submission and its assessment will need to be planned. This meeting or a following one should also include a review of your research skills training plan made with reference to the Researcher Development Framework. For overall planning, we


recommend that you draw up a schedule of work that shows key stages or milestones for specific aspects of the research. One tried and true method is to work backwards from the expected final date of submission in order to gain a notional idea of what must be achieved, and by when, in order to meet the deadline. To help you get started, see: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: For Research Students/Starting a Research Degree/Your Research Student Journey. You can also find in the same section of the website how to create a Gantt chart (a bar chart to illustrate a project schedule) and some of the available software for this.

Record of supervisory meetingsYou must keep a record of supervisory meetings that you attend using theRD9 form. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Other Forms. This is to be completed by the student at formal supervisory meetings and signed at the end of the meeting by the student and all supervisors who are present. The Record of Supervision helps you to remember the advice you are given, and provides a summary of the discussion and reasons for the advice given. This can assist when reviewing the course of research at later stages of the project. Additionally, the record serves as an action plan to set goals and timescales for your work between meetings. A copy should be sent to the Research Administrator; this is a requirement for international students.

Annual ReviewThis process is required for all registered research degree candidates. In advance of the review, your Director of Studies will discuss with you your skills development plan, career development (if appropriate) and general progress. The DoS will then complete a report on your progress and evaluate whether it is satisfactory or not. The form can be found at: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ by following the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Annual Review. It is a good idea to have a look at all parts of the form which will give you an idea of areas that may be discussed at the review meeting. The review will be conducted by an independent internal reviewer who will examine the evidence of your progress and discuss with you your student experience and any issues of concern that may affect your study. You should bring evidence of your progress to the meeting (such as your RD9 forms); and send any proposal (RD1) or transfer report (RD2) electronically to the reviewer in advance. The meeting should take about 60 to 90 minutes. After the meeting, the reviewer will complete a written report and provide you with any advice or guidance that is felt necessary.

The review process is an important opportunity for you and your DoS to get feedback about your progress, skills development, and student experience from a reviewer uninvolved with your research. The Faculty Research Degrees Committee will consider the review and take action if necessary, including provision of additional support if this is an issue holding back your progress. The review process also helps the Committee to monitor postgraduate research provision in general, ultimately leading to enhancement in the quality of educational experience at MMU.

10. Updating your contact details and other relevant information

It is vital that you keep the University informed of your current contact details at all times. This includes notifying any changes in your postal address, e-mail address(es), and telephone number(s) to the Faculty Research Administrator who will update the University database, and inform the Supervisory Team. This is especially important in case it is necessary to contact you in an emergency. Failure to keep addresses up to date could also result in your missing important mailings from the University. You can update information yourself on: www.mmu.ac.uk/enrol


11. Other Forms ExplainedDuring the course of your study, you may be faced by a number of circumstances that necessitate the use of official forms: transferring registration, changing your mode of attendance (full-time/part-time) or changing your supervisory team. There might also occur circumstances that require the extension of your period of registration, or suspension of registration. And finally, if for some reason you wish to terminate your studies, you will need to notify the University formally of your intention to withdraw. What follows is a brief guide to the forms that you will need to submit in such circumstances.

Transfer of RegistrationUnder normal circumstances, transfer of registration applies to a switch from Master of Arts by Research to Master of Philosophy (MA to MPhil), or from Master of Philosophy to Doctor of Philosophy (MPhil to PhD).

The application for transfer must be made well in advance of the final submission date for the master’s thesis, but is usually submitted after 6 months (12 months part-time) for MA to MPhil, and after 12 months (18 months part-time) for MPhil to PhD.

Application for transfer of registration from Master of Arts to Master of Philosophy (to be used for transfer from MA by Research to MPhil)

Transfer from MA by Research to MPhil requires the RD2 form: Application for transfer of registration from [select to fill blank]. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Transfer.

This form requests updated details of your research project. You need to notify any change in the Supervisory Team which may be considered necessary at this stage, and attach an RDCV form for any new supervisor.

Details of your supporting programme must be provided in the form of a brief summary of the workshops, seminars and conferences attended (both internal and external to the University).

You must confirm that there are no issues that change the ethical status of the research, or else attach an approval letter in respect of such changes.

Along with the form must be submitted the Transfer Report of 3,000 – 6,000 words in length. For transfer from MA to MPhil, the main criterion is usually to do with the scale of the research undertaking, rather than the nature of the research. Therefore, this report sets out:a) the aims of your research as given in your original

application for registration (RD1) and alterations, if any;b) a summary of the results of your critical literature review

of practices, theories, or histories;c) a summary of the chosen methods or methodology;d) a summary of work already undertaken, mapping the

results against the original aims or any altered aims; ande) a description of the widening scale of work that warrants

research at MPhil level.

A portfolio of work normally accompanies the Transfer Report. This contains a selection of written or practical work you have completed that provides evidence of your ability to produce research outputs of the appropriate academic standard. It can include a literature review or other chapter, a conference presentation or published paper, exhibition documentation, and art or design work related to the aims of the research. Texts should amount to no more than 8,000 words, or 4,000 words when combined with practice-based work.

An abstract (up to one side of A4) is required, giving the main conclusions of the Transfer Report. The abstract should make evident your progress thus far, and the expanded undertaking that takes the research to MPhil level.

Your Director of Studies will look through your transfer documentation, and sign the form to confirm their satisfaction with your progress as set out in the report, and to verify that your work is expected to develop to Master of Philosophy level. This means that you must keep in close contact with your Director of Studies and allow sufficient time for the DoS to complete their work and sign the form.

At this stage, the Faculty Research Degrees Administrator will check that everything is in place and sign the form accordingly. It is then ready for submission.

The Transfer Report will be read by two independent scrutineers who will provide their initial assessment. The format of this assessment will provide comments on your aims, literature review, methods, expected contribution to knowledge and research plan. You will receive these comments in advance of an oral examination in order to help you to prepare for this exam. At the oral examination, you will have an opportunity to specifically address these points. After the oral examination, an overall assessment of your progress and suitability for the higher degree will be determined. For a full description of the examination procedure (the same as for MPhil to PhD), see below: “The Transfer Stage Viva” under Transfer from MPhil to PhD.

Application for transfer of registration from Master of Philosophy to Doctor of Philosophy (also used in the exceptional cases of transfer from MA by Research directly to PhD)

Transfer from MPhil to PhD requires the RD2 form: Application for transfer of registration from [select to fill blank for type of transfer]. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Transfer.

This form requests updated details of your research project. You need to notify any change in the Supervisory Team which may be considered necessary at this stage, and attach a CV on an RDCV form for any new supervisor.

Details of your supporting programme must be provided in the form of a brief summary of the workshops, seminars and conferences attended (both internal and external to the University).


You must confirm that there are no issues that change the ethical status of the research, or else attach an approval letter in respect of changes.

Along with the form must be submitted a Transfer Report of 5,000 – 6,000 words in length. For transfer from MPhil to PhD, the criteria usually include not just an increased scale but also a widening brief. Therefore, the report sets out:a) the aims of your research as given in your original

application for registration (RD1) and any alterations or additional aims that will lead to the PhD;

b) a summary of your critical literature review of practices, theories, and/or histories (as appropriate to your field of enquiry);

c) a description of the methods/methodology in use and to be used;

d) a summary of work already undertaken, mapping the results against the original aims and any subsequent alterations;

e) your conclusions at this stage; andf) a description of the widening brief that is to take the

research to PhD level. This should make clear the changes in the nature of the research that warrant the transfer of degree status. This will usually be a contribution to knowledge at the forefront of a discipline.

A portfolio of work normally accompanies the Transfer Report. This contains a selection of written or practical work you have completed that provides evidence of your ability to produce research outputs of the appropriate academic standard. This can include a literature review or other chapter, a conference presentation or published paper, exhibition documentation, and art or design work related to the aims of the research. Texts should amount to no more than 8,000 words, or 4,000 words when combined with practice-based work.

An abstract (up to one side of A4) is required, laying out the main conclusions of the Transfer Report. The abstract should make evident your progress thus far, and the expanded undertaking that takes the research to PhD level (the contribution to knowledge in your discipline).

Your Director of Studies will look through your transfer documentation, and sign the form to confirm their satisfaction with your progress as set out in the report, and to verify that the research is expected to lead to a significant contribution to knowledge. This means that you must keep in close contact with your Director of Studies and allow sufficient time for the DoS to complete their work and sign the form.

The Faculty Research Degrees Administrator will then check that everything is in place and sign the form accordingly. It is then ready for submission.

The Transfer Report will be read by two independent scrutineers who will provide their initial assessment. The format of this assessment will provide comments on your aims, literature review, methods, expected contribution to knowledge and research plan. You will receive these comments in advance of an oral examination in order to help you to prepare for this. At

the oral examination, you will have an opportunity to specifically address these points. After the oral examination, an overall assessment of your progress and suitability for the higher degree will be determined.

The transfer stage viva. The examiners for the transfer stage viva will be normally be two members of MMU staff who are not part of your Supervisory Team. They will be selected under the authority of the Faculty Research Degrees Coordinator with advice from the Director of Studies. Each will read and scrutinise the Abstract, Report, and Portfolio and submit their preliminary recommendations. If these differ significantly, a Chairperson may be appointed to manage the oral examination to ensure that it is robust and fair.

Based on their reading or viewing of the submitted material, the examiners will prepare questions for discussion at the viva. The whole session will last about an hour. After a break for the examiners to write their report, you will be invited to return and receive the outcome.

After the viva, there are three possible outcomes to the transfer request: (1) The transfer may be recommended without any further

requirements.(2) The transfer may be conditionally recommended subject

to minor revisions that address any issues that have been identified by the examiners. You will normally be expected to complete these revisions in two weeks (four weeks part-time).

(3) The transfer may require major revisions and re-submission for assessment by the examiners (without or with another viva). The required amendments will be set out with the examiners’ comments. These should be completed in four weeks (eight weeks part-time).

In the case of a re-submission, the transfer may be recommended, minor revisions requested, or it may be unsuccessful. In the case where transfer is not granted, you will have six months (one year part-time) to complete the thesis for the lesser degree.

In the unusual case where examiners cannot agree, the Faculty Research Degrees Coordinator will be able to arbitrate. Finally, the examination results will be forwarded to the Research Degrees Committee for validation.

Transfers from MPhil to MA by Research, or PhD to MPhilThere may be personal circumstances that make it impossible for a student to complete the degree originally registered for. In such cases, it is possible to apply to transfer to a lesser degree level. It could also happen that your supervisory team does not feel that your work is of sufficient standard to achieve the degree originally registered for, and they will advise transferring to a lesser degree. In either case, there is not a form to fill in, but it is necessary to apply in writing to the Research Degrees Committee stating the reasons for requesting the transfer. This letter needs either to be written by your Director of Studies, or to be accompanied by the DoS’s written statement of support.


Notification of change in approved mode of study (Changing from full to part-time study, or vice versa)

Changing your mode of study requires the RDMS form. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Other Forms.

In addition to straightforward information about your registration: You must state the reason(s) for the requested change, and the proposed start date.

The form must be signed by your Director of Studies. Thus it is expected that you will have discussed your reasons with the DoS.

The signature of the Head of Faculty Research Degrees must also be obtained.

Please note: This is a notification procedure only, and does not require Research Degrees Committee approval. It takes effect once recorded by the Faculty Research Degrees Administrator.

Application for change in approved arrangements for supervision (adding to, or changing, your supervisory team)

Changes in supervisory arrangements require the RD3 form. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Other Forms.

This form is required in order to register a departure, or apply for an addition or replacement of a member of the supervisory team.

The form asks for the current composition of your Supervisory Team and the proposed change. In the case of a new supervisor, the RDCV must be attached unless already held on file.

You must also give a brief reason for the requested change.

The form must be signed by your Director of Studies and the Head of Faculty Research Degrees.

Application for extension to thesis submission deadlineRequesting an extension requires the RD4 form. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Other Forms.

This form should be used to request an extension to your submission date if some exceptional circumstance will prevent you from completing on time. Your submission date is the date confirmed to you on your approval of registration, or revised on acceptance of your transfer application. You should only consider making use of an extension if you are certain to complete within the period of time requested. If there is any uncertainty on this, then you would best be advised to request a

suspension of study, or, if appropriate, to change your mode of study from full to part-time. It must also be noted that students are only allowed two extensions of 12 months maximum duration each during their degree. Thus, when considering the need for additional time of any sort, you are strongly advised to discuss the matter with your Director of Studies before taking action.

Please note: If you are funded for study, either by an external body or internal scholarship, you should check the terms and conditions of that funding prior to considering an extension of the approved period of registration. If the conditions allow an extension, then you must first obtain approval from the funding body, and then submit the relevant documentation with the application for extension. Foreign students with visas are responsible for ensuring their visa status will allow the extension.

The form asks for the length of extension in months, the proposed starting date, and the reason(s) for the extension request. You should read page 6 of the Code of Practice to see what factors qualify and do not qualify as exceptional. In judging the amount of time needed, you must consider not just your own work, but the requirements of your Supervisory Team to read and comment on your thesis before its submission.

Documentation of the factors applying in your case should be appended to the form. Medical or personal factors will be kept confidential apart from signatories to the form.

The progress with your written thesis is summarised in a chart form.

Upon consideration of your progress, and the work remaining, your Director of Studies must confirm her/his recommendation of the extension by signature. The form is then submitted to the Faculty Research Degrees Administrator for consideration by the Head of Faculty Research Degrees. It may either be approved or referred to the Research Degrees Committee for further consideration.

Application for suspension of registrationSuspending your studies requires the RD5 form. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Other Forms.

This form is used to suspend your registration for a specified period of time. This stops the clock of your registration period until such time as you are able to resume your study. This means that you are not liable for fees while on suspension, but neither are you able to have supervisory meetings or an annual review. Hence, suspension should be used only where the candidate is prevented from making progress with the research through exceptional factors, such as ill health, or other serious or unpreventable matters. You should read page 6 of the Code of Practice to see what factors qualify and do not qualify as exceptional. All health-based suspension requests must include documented evidence from a British Medical Association practitioner. Applications for suspension will not normally be


permitted retrospectively or backdated by more than one month. International students on Tier 4 visas would be expected to return home during a suspension period.

Suspension is usually undertaken only if other avenues of extending your period of registration have been explored. It may, for example, be preferable to request an extension (see above) or to change the mode of study from full to part time mode. It must also be noted that students are allowed a total duration of 24 months suspension with a maximum period of one year at a time. For students on the 2009 regulations, the rules are slightly different: only two suspensions of 12 months maximum duration each are allowed during the degree. When considering the need for additional time of any sort, you are strongly advised to discuss the matter with your Director of Studies before taking action.

The form asks for the requested period of suspension in months, the starting date of this period, and the reason(s) for the suspension.

Supporting documentation, such as a letter from your doctor, must be provided or the application will not be considered.

Your Director of Studies must sign the form to confirm that they support your request for the reasons given.

The form is then submitted to the Faculty Research Degrees Administrator for consideration by the Head of Faculty Research Degrees. It may either be approved or referred to the Research Degrees Committee for further consideration.

Notification of withdrawal of registration(to be used to register your intention to withdraw from your study altogether)

The intention to withdraw is registered on the RDW form. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/Other Forms.

You must use this form to notify the University if it is your intention to withdraw. This formally signals your decision to leave your programme of study at MMU. If you do not notify the University by this means, you will continue to be billed for your fees, and required to undergo the annual review. Notification of withdrawal can also be initiated by your Director of Studies if, for example, your work is academically unsatisfactory or you have not maintained contact.

The form asks for a brief reason for the withdrawal (under a number of headings), and the date this will commence.

It must be signed by your Director of Studies to confirm that the situation has been discussed with you, and that you have accepted withdrawal (except in the case of loss of contact or death). The form is then handed to the Faculty Research Degrees Administrator who will place it into effect.

Notification of change in approved programme of study The form used to notify any substantial change to the subject matter of your approved programme of study is the RDCP. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Other Forms.

Notification of change to your subject of study is necessary if you may encounter problems in submitting your thesis (if, for example, your title has changed to reflect a new direction of research, or your subject is not that for which registration was approved).

The form requests your change of title (if applicable), and the reasons for the change in project direction.

You must confirm that there are no issues that change the ethical status of the research, or else attach an approval letter in respect of changes.

The form must be signed by your Director of Studies and Head of Faculty Research Degrees to confirm approval.


12. University and Faculty Support for Study

A great deal of what we have to offer our postgraduate research students at MMU, and specifically within the Manchester School of Art, is described throughout this Handbook, particularly in the section headed Research Environment above.

In addition to these specific resources, MMU offers to all of its students services that support their health and well-being, study life, and employability. These services can be accessed through the Student Hub web page reached from the MMU website by following the link from ‘Current Students’. An alternative web page is : www.mmu.ac.uk/sas/studentservices/. These portal pages gives details of the support for study that can be offered by the Student Services team as well as advice on a range of issues affecting the student experience such as accommodation and welfare, equalities and diversity.

There is a faculty-based Student Support Officer for the Faculty of Art and Design. This is Rochelle Morris. Tel: 0161 2471711, e-mail: [email protected] She can offer a variety of help from improving time management to dealing with stress; and she is familiar with the specific needs of art and design students. See: www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/studentsupport/

The Learner Development Service website contains information and advice on support for students with disabilities, and on issues around disclosure of disability. This can be accessed from the home page of the MMU website by following the links from ‘Current Students’ to ‘Disabled & Dyslexic Students’, or directly by: www.mmu.ac.uk/sas/studentservices/learner-development

Additionally, within the Faculty, we have our own Student Research Methods Support Officer, Dr Barbara Rawlings. She is available on a weekly basis for one to one sessions through a signing-in sheet for appointments kept on the PGR notice board in the MIRIAD Open Space on the first floor of Righton building. She will introduce herself at induction and discuss the help she can offer. Barbara has experience of working with research students throughout the programme, and regularly contributes to the MIRIAD Research Training Programme. Likewise, Dr Myna Trustram and Dr Amanda Ravetz can provide one-on-one peer support independent of your supervisory team on any research or academic matters, from the necessary forms to research planning and writing. See Section 3: Key Contacts.


13. International Students

As an international student, you will already have met the student support team at MMU International. You will have corresponded with them over applications, visas and fees. MMU International is a dedicated support team, and can provide advice on a wide range of issues concerning study in the UK. They have an Immigration and Welfare Unit, and can assist international students to find specialised support through the existing MMU support units, for example, the Learning Development Service for disability issues.

MMU International organises many activities relevant to the experience of studying within the UK and specifically in Manchester. They also host The International Society for international students, with about 3,000 members representing 150 countries. The Society has a lively programme of social and cultural activities planned throughout the academic year, and it’s a great place to get to know the city as well as the diverse range of overseas students who study here. For further information, consult the MMU International Web site: www2.mmu.ac.uk/international/ or contact the team at [email protected]

Since 2009, international students have been subject to the fourth tier of the new points-based UK immigration rules that replace the old student visa. The University now has greater responsibilities to ensure that students abide by the requirements of their course, and to report non-enrolment or non-attendance. Thus it is important that you maintain contact with your supervisory team. Should you wish to makes any changes to the period of your enrolment, it is essential that you discuss this with an International Welfare Officer (See Section 3: Other Useful Contacts) in conjunction with your DoS to ensure compliance with academic, legal and visa requirements. You may need to apply for a visa extension.

English language requirement. International students will be required to demonstrate a sufficiently high standard of English language ability. The usual requirement for postgraduate entry is International English Language Testing System (IELTS) 7.0, or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) equivalent. Applicants who do not meet the English language entry requirements may be able to join an English language course at MMU before starting their postgraduate programme. MMU’s Centre for Academic English offers pre-sessional English courses, varying from 8 to 30 weeks depending on students’ current level of English.

MMU’s Department of Languages in the Faculty of Humanities, Law and Social Sciences runs English Language Services for International Students (ELSIS) available to all faculties at MMU. ELSIS provides free English short courses for international students, as well as consultations and one-to-one tutorials to which students can bring their written work and discuss it with a qualified English teacher. ELSIS runs annual inductions and diagnostic tests at the start of the Autumn term. Its language learning advisor can discuss how students can best improve their English based on their individual needs and goals.

For more information, see: The Language Centre in the Department of English and Linguistics at http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/languagecentre/courses-for-our-students/elsis/ You may also contact: Dr Anthony (Tony) Picot, e-mail [email protected] Tel: 0161 2476183.


14. Submitting your ThesisWhen your research is complete and written up to your satisfaction, and hopefully that of your Supervisory Team, you will be ready to submit the thesis for examination. The submission of the thesis for examination is at your sole discretion; although it would be unusual to submit without the approval of your Director of Studies, you do have the right to do so if you feel it necessary. On the other hand, the agreement of the Supervisory Team to the submission of the thesis is no guarantee that it will be considered passable by the Examiners. This advice is reiterated in the Code of Practice and Regulations for Postgraduate Research Programmes, and it is recommended that you consult these prior to your decision to submit.

You are required to submit your thesis and a separate 300-word abstract in BOTH paper and electronic forms. Submit two paper copies of your thesis temporarily bound with a soft cover, accompanied by a completed Declaration Form (RDDEC) on or before the submission date to:

Dan O’Connor, Research Degrees Administrator, Geoffrey Manton Building, Room 212, email: [email protected] Tel: 0161 247 4609. The RDDEC form can be found from the Graduate School website: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/Examination

Submit an identical electronic copy of the same by e-mailing it in pdf or document format to Dan O’Connor at [email protected] You may also submit your electronic copy on disk or usb flash drive/ memory stick, in which case, please ensure that it accompanies the paper copy submission and label the electronic format clearly. Where creative work forms part of the submission, an archival record of the work should accompany the written submission. This will normally be recorded on a digital storage medium, in a standard retrievable form that has been agreed with your Director of Studies.

The abstract is to be bound with the thesis. It is to provide a synopsis of the thesis stating the nature and scope of the work undertaken, and the main contributions made to knowledge in the subject area.

The text of the thesis should not normally exceed 80,000 words for a PhD, 40,000 words for an MPhil, or 30,000 words for an MA by Research (this does not include ancillary matter such as footnotes, references, diagrams and appendices). Where the thesis is accompanied by material in other than written form, the written thesis should normally be in the range of 30,000-40,000 words for a PhD, 15,000-20,000 words for an MPhil, and 10,000-15,000 words for an MA by Research. For a PhD by Publication the thesis should take the form of an analytical commentary of 10,000-15,000 words, and for a PhD by Practice, the analytical commentary should be in the range of 10,000-30,000 words. The analytical commentary will be accompanied by copies of published material, permanent

records of a performance or exhibition, or permanent record of a portfolio of work depending on the individual case, and established at the time of registration (RD1).

Should the thesis approach 100,000 words in length, it is a requirement that the external examiner is informed in advance in writing. There must be sufficient justification for the extra length, or you will be asked to revise the thesis.

The declaration (RDDEC) clarifies any issues of concurrent registration or material submitted for another award, states any material published in advance of the thesis, and vouches the professional integrity of your work. It must be signed by yourself and countersigned by your Director of Studies to confirm that you have completed a programme of supporting studies and undertaken annual monitoring and evaluation.Please note that it is good practice for you to discuss submission with your Director of Studies at least three months in advance of anticipated submission. This allows your DoS time to confirm External and Internal Examiners and for the RDC to recommend their appointment. Once your work is submitted, it will take about two months for the reading of the thesis and co-ordinating the Viva Voce examination. Candidates for MA by research do not normally have an oral examination unless this is recommended by the examiners (for example, in the case of resubmission). We recommend that you use some of your waiting time to consider material for publication and/or to increase your teaching experience.

You are also advised to ring Credit Control at this time to ensure that all your financial debts to the University are cleared, as debts could lead to delays in organising your viva (See Section 3: Other Useful Contacts).

There are specific formatting requirements of the written thesis. These prescribe page size, weight of paper, margins, spacing, page numbering, type font, font size, the contents of the title page, and the choice of bibliographical referencing system. There are also requirements for the type of temporary binding for examination, and permanent binding for conferment of the degree. These details are given in the current MMU Research Student Handbook on page 36. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Regulations... / Supporting Materials/ Research Student Handbook.

The copies of the thesis submitted for examination will remain the property of the University, but the copyright in the work will remain with the candidate.


What happens if you do not submit within the allotted time period?If you sense that you cannot complete the degree within the allotted period, you may take advantage of options to extend, suspend, or change the mode of study from full-time to part-time, as appropriate, to increase the time available. However, if you still miss the submission date, there is a financial penalty. After a short grace period (20 working days), a first-stage non-submission fee of £250 will be charged. A further non-submission fee of £500 will be charged (second stage) if you do not submit within six months of the original deadline. Then, if it is still necessary for you to return the following year, £3000 will be charged (although this will be reduced to one-third if you submit within the first six months of that year). Any further delays will entail payment of tuition fees. Please note that for overseas students, the rates are three times that of home students. For everyone, it is in your best interest to submit your thesis on time, or as soon as possible thereafter.


15. Viva Voce Examination

The Viva Voce examination is the culmination of research degree study at MPhil or PhD level. From the Latin translating literally as “with living voice,” it means in this context an oral examination. Masters by Research candidates will normally be assessed on the basis of the thesis alone, although examiners or the student can request an oral examination. All MPhil and PhD candidates will be examined by viva. Those students who have transferred from MPhil to PhD (after 2013) will already have undertaken a transfer viva, so the process will be familiar.

The completion stage viva. For those undertaking the viva, you will be appointed an Internal Examiner and an External Examiner (MMU staff members will be examined by two External Examiners for greater objectivity). The viva is a discussion and defence of your research, its process and findings. The thesis will be read by your examiners, and from their reading they will develop a series of questions about the research which they will put to you in the viva. For students submitting a thesis that includes a body of creative work, an exhibition or other form of viewing may be arranged so that examiners can consider this work in its original format prior to the viva. You will not know the examiners’ questions in advance, and it would be fair to say that some students find this a daunting prospect. Most, however, enjoy the experience of being able to discuss several years of work with someone who has extensive knowledge of their field, and an interest in the particular insights the thesis brings to the subject.

The viva is normally held at the University, and usually takes place within three months of submission of the thesis. After submission, the thesis is read and given a preliminary assessment by each of the examiners, provisionally stating whether it satisfies the requirements of the degree. During this period, your DoS will liaise with you and the examiners to agree a mutually convenient date for the viva, and will arrange the time and location. Assuming the preliminary reports are satisfactory, the Research Degrees Administrator will write to you formally to confirm the details of the examination, normally about three weeks in advance. Should the student wish examiners to evaluate the original creative work produced as part of the thesis, arrangements for a viewing or exhibition should be made by the student. This can take place anytime from six months before the submission date up until the viva date, but must be arranged in liaison with your DoS well in advance in order to arrange the visit of the examiners. On this occasion, the examiners are allowed to ask questions on points of information, but the situation cannot be treated as part of the examination.

The viva is chaired by a suitably qualified member of MMU staff who has not been involved in the research project. The chair makes sure things run smoothly and according to the regulations, taking in hand the paperwork involved. The student may elect to allow supervisors or others to be present in an observer capacity, but observers are not allowed to speak or otherwise participate. You will know who the examiners are in advance, and you are not allowed to have any contact with them after submission of the thesis, and you should avoid any significant contact even before submission.

The MIRIAD research training programme usually offers a session on preparing for the viva. The Graduate School also offers workshop training on the viva, with tips on what to avoid and how to handle different types of questions. You will be examined by viva at the MPhil to PhD transfer stage which helps to make the viva process more familiar, and allows you to work through any difficulties at an earlier stage. The Graduate School workshops may include a “mock viva” which puts you into the situation of a real examination without the fear of actually being examined, so that any such difficulties can be discussed. We advise attending the Graduate School workshop as a practice session that will allow you a better understanding of what to expect. For further details on the Graduate School programme, go to the intranet site and click on For Research Students/ Research Students Development/ Workshop Descriptions.

After the completion stage viva. After the viva, the examiners will confer and normally agree one of several recommendations:

1) that the student be awarded the degree without imposing any conditions.

2) that the student be awarded the degree subject to corrections/minor amendments (such as typographic, bibliographic or formatting errors; or small additions or deletions). In this case, a list is usually provided. Such corrections should be capable of being completed within two weeks (full time). These corrections are to be submitted to your DoS, and will be approved by one examiner, usually the internal examiner.

3) that the student be awarded the degree subject to revisions/amendments, not normally more than 10% of the work. This might involve re-writing a particular section or revising a chapter. Reasons for the required amendments, and guidance will be provided. Such revisions will usually be capable of completion within two months. They are to be submitted to your DoS, and one or both examiners may check them for approval.

4) that the student is not awarded the degree, but permitted to re-submit the thesis in revised form and be re-examined. This might involve substantial changes that affect more than one section of the thesis, or where creative work falls short of the expected standard. Again, reasons for the required revisions, and specific guidance will be provided. The further work will not be so extensive that it would be considered a new thesis. You will be required to submit copies of the revised thesis (in the same formats as previously) to the Research Degrees Administrator for re-examination, normally within six months so that re-examination can take place within the conferment period.

5) that the student not be awarded the degree applied for, but rather awarded a lesser degree (MPhil instead of PhD, or MA by Research instead of MPhil) subject to any amendments required by the examiners. In this case, the examiners will explain why they feel the thesis cannot be revised to meet the criteria for the degree for which it was submitted.


6) that the student not be awarded the degree, and not be permitted to re-submit. In this case, the deficiencies of the thesis will be clearly stated. Fortunately, this last case is rare.

The student will be called back to the examination room and informed of the recommendation. The Chair will write these out in a report to the RDC, a copy of which will be given to the student. One examiner will be nominated to receive any corrections or minor amendments, and that examiner will be able to report the outcome when these are submitted. It is quite common to have some corrections and/or minor amendments to make; revision of a chapter is not uncommon. These should be completed within the periods specified above. Re-submission will take longer, but in all cases sufficient time must be allowed for re-examination within the conferment period (12 months from submission)

Students subject to the 2013 regulations will pay a pro rata continuation fee during the period of their resubmission. If you are re-submitting, the RDC will decide upon the form of examination; another viva may or may not be required. Only one re-examination is permitted. Candidates must not attempt to contact examiners from the time of the examination until the thesis receives full approval. Candidates who fail to submit corrections or amendments, or to re-submit by the specified date may be withdrawn by the University.

Once the thesis is approved, the candidate must submit:

a) written notification from the examiners that any required corrections or revisions have been approved;

b) one bound copy and an electronic copy of the final thesis produced according to the University’s specification;

c) a completed RD Exit form signed by your DoS. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ and follow the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/Conferment of Award; and, lastly

d) for PhD students, a completed deposit form for the British Library Electronic Thesis Online Service (EThOS). This form can be found in the same location as the RD Exit.

If everything is in order, the award of the degree will be confirmed in writing, usually in two to three weeks, and this constitutes conferment. Please provide the Research Degrees Administrator with the address to send your formal notification, certificate and invitation to the awards ceremony. The degree is formally presented at the annual University awards ceremony. Although attendance is optional, if you do attend, you will be expected to hire and wear robes in accordance with MMU’s prescribed livery.


16. Acronym Buster and Glossary

Academic Year: MIRIAD operates according to a 45-week academic year allowing 35 days leave. Thus postgraduates can work beyond the limited term timetable of undergraduates.

AEC: Academic Ethics Committee. This committee advises the Faculty on ethical issues related to research, and judges the suitability of arrangements for handling issues raised by particular research proposals. This is carried out in accordance with the University’s Academic Ethical Framework, English law (for example, the Children Act 1989, the Data Protection Act 1998, and the Freedom of Information Act 2000), and relevant codes of conduct of professional bodies.

AHRC: the Arts and Humanities Research Council. The AHRC supports research that furthers our understanding of human culture and creativity. It is the national research council that includes the subjects within our Faculty. With an annual budget of £98 million, the AHRC provides funding for research and research training through a variety of grant programmes and postgraduate awards. It engages in national debates about research and aims to foster excellence in research on an international level. It is worth familiarising yourself with the AHRC’s web pages at www.ahrc.ac.uk (updated frequently).

Completion or conferment: This describes the end of your research degree process. Contrary to popular belief, the term ‘completion’ differs from submission. Completion designates the point at which the degree is awarded, which is confirmed in writing (by letter) prior to the annual Graduation Ceremony. The University regulations state a minimum and maximum period of registration running from the ‘date of first registration’ to ‘completion.’ This will include the reading and preliminary examination of your thesis, your viva voce, and time taken to make any amendments imposed by the examiners. Normally, you will want to allow at least three months between submission and viva, and six to eight weeks for amendments.

CV: Curriculum vitae or Curriculum vitarum: A Latin term (literally translated as ‘course of life’) meaning a brief account of one’s education, qualifications and prior occupations.

DoS: Director of Studies. Your DoS has overall responsibility for supervising your research, and for its monitoring and evaluation. The Director can offer guidance on procedural matters as well as academic issues, and oversees the formal paperwork required during your academic progress. Your DoS also directs the supervisory team, and makes the practical arrangements for your examination. For further information, see Section 9. Working with your Supervisory Team.

Electronic payment system for the use of networked university printers and scanners, as well as purchases from stores within the faculty. Your MMU ID and password is used to top up your account at a payment kiosk or on the internet, and then your student ID card can be used to order copies according to the credit you have on your account. To view your balance, see: www.finance.mmu.ac.uk/payOnline/index.cfm, log in and follow the links. You can reach this site by clicking on

Current Students on the MMU Home Page, and scrolling down to the button MMU PayOnline.

Enrolment: This designates the annual process in which you are required to renew your student status and pay your fees. There are two week enrolment periods at the start of each term. Note that enrolment differs from registration (see below) which takes place when your research proposal has been approved.

Entry requirements: see: www2.mmu.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/entry-requirements

For the Master of Arts by Research (MA) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil), you should have a first or second class honours Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification. Other applicants will be considered on their merits. Ability and background knowledge in relation to the proposed research, together with professional experience, publications, written reports or other appropriate evidence of accomplishment will be taken into consideration.

Opportunities exist to transfer from MA by Research to MPhil after about 6 months (12 months part-time), and students registered for MPhil have the opportunity to transfer to PhD after completion of about 12 months (24 months part-time), along with submission of a transfer report demonstrating progress that shows that development to the higher degree level can be achieved.

To apply for a PhD directly, you should have a Master’s degree or equivalent in a discipline that is appropriate to the proposed research, and includes sufficient training in research methods and experience in executing a research project. If you do not meet these criteria but have had appropriate research or professional experience at postgraduate level that has resulted in published work, written reports, or other appropriate evidence of accomplishment, this will be taken into consideration.

Ethics and Consent Forms: If you plan to involve human participants in your study (whether as subjects for photography or as interviewees), then you will need a Participant Information Sheet and Participant Consent Form. A good place for finding more information about research ethics and consents is the UK Data Archive: www.data-archive.ac.uk/create-manage/consent-ethics. This site provides not only clear advice but links to other university sites with standard forms that you can use to develop your own. For example, the University of the Arts London, Oxford Brooks University, and Southampton University have all published standard forms. You may also wish to consult the Oral History Society Ethics Guidelines: www.ohs.org.uk/ethics.php.

If your research involves photographs of human subjects that you may wish to display, publish or sell at a later date, you will want to employ a Model Release Form which assigns any interest the subject has in the copyright, moral rights or intellectual property rights to the photographer. Standard Forms used by professional photographers can easily be found on the internet, but special consideration would need to be given for photography of minors or for nude photography. If your research


involves photography of buildings not visible from a public place, it would be advisable to use a Location Release Form.

Ethics Approval: If your proposed research raises ethical issues, appropriate arrangements for handling these must be made. If ethics issues raised by your research cannot be resolved within the Faculty, an application for ethics approval must then be submitted to the MMU Academic Ethics Committee. The Ethics Approval form is available from the Graduate School Intranet. Follow the links from Online Forms to Ethics Forms where you will see the MMU Application for Ethical Approval.

Ethics Check: Any research proposal must take due cognizance of the ethical implications of the subject matter of the research, its methodologies and the representation of certain forms of data in the final thesis that could affect the ability to make the thesis publicly available. When submitting a research proposal, students must ensure that they have discussed any ethical implications of their research with their Director of Studies (DoS) to determine whether approval of research ethics is required. To assist you, an Ethics Check form is available from the Faculty Research Degrees Administrator. This should be completed by you and signed by your DoS as an essential component of your research proposal. Aspects of research that have potential ethical risks include: research requiring the involvement of other participants (especially children), research involving animals, research entailing moral or legal obligations, and research with insurance or health and safety implications.

Examiners: Your examination panel will consist one external examiner (employed outside the University), and one internal examiner. When MMU staff members are being examined, both examiners will be external. The examination team is assembled by the Director of Studies. Students are reminded that any person who has made significant input into your research will be disbarred as a potential examiner, so it is a good idea to establish choices for your external examiner well in advance in order to avoid contact during the period of study. For further information, see Section 15. Viva Voce.

Faculty Postgraduate Research Programme: The Faculty of Art and Design runs its own postgraduate research programme designed to enhance students’ subject-specific experience of postgraduate work. The programme includes induction, research training seminars, monitoring and evaluation, and an annual research meeting (See: PARC North West).

Faculty Postgraduate Student Representatives: these are elected student representatives who can take any issues or ideas you have to the Graduate School Forum on your behalf. They represent the student body on generic issues common to all faculty research students. Representatives can talk through issues with you outside of the formal relationships of departmental subject areas and the academic staff directly involved in supporting your research. There will be normally be one full-time and one part-time student acting as representatives.


Faculty Research Degrees Administrator in MIRIAD: The administrator is currently Adele Dunne, whose office is on the second floor of Geoffrey Manton Building, Room 212 (tel. 0161 247 4609). All administrative forms you need to submit should be handed to the Research Degrees Administrator. In conjunction with the Research Degrees Co-ordinator, the Administrator will check that all relevant signatures have been collected and that the forms are duly submitted.

Faculty Student Support Officer: The Student Support Officer is available to advise students on a wide range of issues related to university life. These include study skills, time management, presentation skills, and writing skills. The postholder is available to meet students by appointment on a one-to-one basis, in confidence. Contact information can be found at Section 3. Key Contacts. For further information, see: www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/studentsupport

Graduate School: The Graduate School is the overall body in charge of postgraduate education at MMU. It specifically engages with PGR’s for the following: induction, postgraduate research student development programme, and the annual postgraduate research student conference. You might also take advantage of their support structures for locating funding and preparing funding bids.

Head of Faculty Research Degrees in MIRIAD: This is a senior staff member who specialises in research, coordinates postgraduate research, and oversees postgraduate research students in the Faculty of Art and Design. This post has been held by Prof. Jim Aulich since 2004 (Office: 111, Righton Building).

Induction: Induction is the process by which students are introduced to the University and are given the information vital to their first steps as research students. Two inductions are conducted for Art and Design postgraduate research students. A required general induction is run by the Graduate School. The other, run by MIRIAD, is tailored to students on the Faculty Research Programme, and contains subject-specific detail. Both are described in this handbook. See Section 2.

MIRIAD: Manchester Institute for Research and Innovation in Art and Design is where you are based as a postgraduate researcher (PGR). The Institute’s function is to manage the quantity and quality of research undertaken by research-active staff within the Faculty, and to promote a stimulating research environment. To this end, MIRIAD is allocated part of the government funding grant based on the periodic national assessment of university research. PGR’s are Associate Members of MIRIAD, and are encouraged to be active in an appropriate Research Centre, thus contributing to the research environment and to the overall success of research within the Faculty.

MIRIAD Postgraduate Research Degrees website: www.miriad.mmu.ac.uk/postgraduate/

MIRIAD Research Groups: Research within the Art and Design Faculty is supported by six discipline-based research

groups: Architecture, Art, Crafts, Design, Media, and Visual Culture, as well as four thematic groups: Arts and Health, Asian Cultures, Future Living and Future Technologies.

MIRIAD Student/Staff Forum: This forum exists in order to promote good relations and enhance the quality of the postgraduate research student experience within the faculty. It allows discussion of a broad range of matters relating to the experience of study and University procedures, and the communication of issues to the Research Degrees Committee for resolution. The Forum meets as part of the Research Training Programme. This supplements the more formal Graduate School Forum, with one full-time and one-part time student to represent each faculty. See: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/student-representatives/

PARC North West: Practice as Research Consortium North West. This regional body organises an annual series of free events exploring the cross-fertilisation of practice and research across the full range of creative practices and industries. The events take the form a conference with keynote speakers, post-graduate presentations, poster sessions, and break-out sessions; and a less traditionally structured ‘carnival’ offering exhibitions, performances, posters, and workshops. All practice-based researchers will find in PARC North West opportunities for personal development, and social occasions to meet researchers and practitioners beyond the MIRIAD network. PARC North West events require advance booking with the Faculty Research Degrees Administrator. See: www.miriad.mmu.ac.uk/postgraduate/

PDP: Personal Development Portfolio (see below)

Personal Development Portfolio (PDP): The process of assembling data about the activities you undertake related to your research and training has been formalised in the contents of a portfolio. A binder is issued to new postgraduate students during the Graduate School induction day to be used for this purpose. The portfolio forms a record of your progress through the research degrees programme: your research proposal (RD1), a record of your attendance at courses, seminars, conferences, relevant exhibitions and other activities. Additionally, your transfer report (RD2), papers or presentations you have given at conferences, a record of your exhibitions or performances, and a list of professional or academic memberships. This information should be updated annually as a minimum, but it will be less burdensome if you get into the habit of updating at the end of each term. A current CV will also be part of the portfolio. The portfolio assists in the annual review process. The point of all this logging of activity is to help you assess your current strengths and weaknesses, and to plan the skills and knowledge you need to develop to reach your goals.

PGR: Postgraduate Researcher and/or Postgraduate Research.

Pro forma: In current academic usage, this Latin term indicates a format or form for providing written information.


RCUK: Research Councils UK. This is the strategic partnership of the UK’s seven research councils: Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), Medical Research Council (MRC), Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), and Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).

Research Degree forms (RD numbers): These are all available for download from the Graduate School Intranet. Follow the link to Online Forms.

RD1: Used for registration; in other words, for submitting a research proposal.

RD2: Used for transfer of registration from Master of Philosophy to PhD.

RD3: Used if a change in your arrangements of supervision is necessary.

RD4: Application for extension of registration.

RD5: Application for suspension of registration.

RD6: Application for approval of the examination team.

RD7: The preliminary report form used by examiners

RD8: Used for the report on your oral examination (viva voce).

RD9: The form on which you record meetings and actions agreed with your supervisory team. You and your DoS should both keep copies.

RDAR: short for Research Degrees Annual Review. This process is required for all registered research degree candidates. In advance of the review, your Director of Studies will have discussed with you your development as a researcher made with reference to the Researcher Development Framework, your career plans, and your general progress. The DoS will then complete a report on your progress and evaluate whether this as satisfactory or not. See the form used at: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ by following the links: Online Forms/ Research Degrees Forms/ Annual Review. It is a good idea to have a look at it to give you an idea of areas that may be discussed. Another review will be conducted by an independent internal reviewer who will examine the evidence of your progress and meet with you to discuss your student experience and any issues of concern that may affect your study. Refer to the Annual Review form for a list of areas that may be discussed. You can bring your PDP file to the meeting, but definitely bring the completed Researcher Development Framework. This meeting should take no more than an hour. The reviewer will then complete a report and provide you with any advice or guidance that is felt necessary.

RDC: Research Degrees Committee. The RDC considers all matters relating to the administration of research degrees for

the University. It is responsible for maintaining standards, and the quality of research programmes. At its monthly meetings, it considers student proposals for registration, and grants these approval or referral. It also administers the postgraduate student satisfaction surveys, and works to improve the student experience.

RDCV: This is a pro forma for a Curriculum Vitae (CV) to be filled out by both supervisors and examiners. This CV is required from all prospective supervisors or examiners. Thus, the form can be needed at various times: for registration, when seeking to change supervisors, or when arranging for approval of examiners. Some CV’s, especially those of MMU staff, will already be held, but you should check with the Faculty Research Degrees Administrator to be certain. Please note that while students are encouraged to keep in close touch with supervisors, regulations strictly forbid contact with examiners prior to examination.

RDDEC: This is a declaration that clarifies any issues of concurrent registration or material submitted for another award, states any material published in advance of the thesis, and vouches the professional integrity of your work. It must be signed by yourself and countersigned by your Director of Studies to confirm that you have completed a programme of supporting studies and undertaken annual monitoring and evaluation.

RKE: Research and Knowledge Exchange is a University Unit that administers Research and Knowledge Exchange for the University as a whole, as well as running the Graduate School. As a postgraduate research student, you’ll find the Graduate School website especially useful. You may also wish to explore the RKE website at: www2.mmu.ac.uk/rke

REF 2014: This is the government’s Research Excellence Framework, a nationwide assessment of university research. The ratings given by the Framework are used by the Higher Education Funding Council of England (HEFCE) to determine the level of government grant given to the University to support research.

Researcher Development Framework: Vitae have developed this framework based on the knowledge behaviours and attributes of successful researchers. These are divided amongst four domains, each split into three subdomains with an average of five descriptors. For example, the domain “knowledge and intellectual abilities contains the sub-domain “Creativity” which includes the descriptor “Innovation”. Researchers are encouraged to choose areas which they wish to develop, and to map these onto several professional development phases. For more information, see www.vitae.ac.uk: Researchers: Researcher Development Framework .

Registration: This term differs from ‘Enrolment’ (see above) in that although you may be enrolled for a research degree, you are not registered for it until you have submitted a proposal (RD1) to the FRDC and it has been formally approved by the University. Proposals are referred by the Committee if it feels that there is insufficient evidence that you are at the appropriate


stage to begin your research. In the case of a referral, you will be given advice on what needs amendment or further detail, and you will need to re-submit the modified proposal. MMU Postgraduate Student regulations stipulate that a full-time student should complete Registration for the degree to which they are enrolled no later than 3 months (6 months part-time) after enrolment, so you need to work diligently to enable your proposal to evidence your preparedness for registration within the time limit.

Research Training: This takes several forms. MIRIAD runs its own Researcher Development Programme. In a series of seminars and workshops, training is delivered directly by subject specialists. Additionally, Dr Steven Gartside offers a series on theoretical writing in the arts designed as an introduction to a broad range of themes; and there is a writing course called Writing Matters. More generic developmental training is offered by the Graduate School for all postgraduate students regardless of their subject. The taught postgraduate programme runs a series of lectures that MIRIAD postgraduates are welcome to attend. There are further training opportunities offered through the Library, and self-directed study such as software tutorials. For training on workshop equipment, see: Workshop Inductions.

RI: Research Institute. MIRIAD is the RI for the Manchester School of Art (see above).

Righton Building: This is the base for the MIRIAD Research Degrees programme. It houses a postgraduate student office (Rooms 114-115), a bookable meeting room (Room 103), a postgraduate notice board, a communal kitchen for light food and drink preparation, and a flexible social and exhibition space. It also houses the offices for the Director of MIRIAD and the Head of Faculty Research Degrees, alongside the offices of Research Fellows based in MIRIAD. The Righton address can be used for deliveries: MMU, Righton Building, Cavendish Street, Manchester M15 6BG.

SCONUL: Society of College, National and University Libraries. SCONUL operates various cooperative schemes to help users of one library make occasional use of another. Over 170 higher education libraries in the UK and Ireland participate in the SCONUL Access scheme which allows registered postgraduate researchers borrowing privileges. See: www.sconul.ac.uk/sconul-access

Student Hub: MMU has centralised departmental support and administration structures. Administrative support for students is found at the Hub for each campus. At All Saints South, there are four hubs. These are found on the ground floor level of the Geoffrey Manton Building, the Business School, Righton Building, and John Dalton Building. They are well sign posted. Formally, the Geoffrey Manton Hub is for School of Art students, but for most purposes you can use any Hub.

Student Representatives: See Faculty Postgraduate Student Representatives

Student Union: The Student Union, located at 21 Higher Cambridge Street, offers a wide range of services, including a shop with discounts above those of ordinary commercial premises. It aims to represent the interests of the entire student body at MMU. See: www.theunionmmu.org There is a link on the website for the Student Union Advice Centre which provides free, independent advice.

Supervisory Team: A team will usually comprise one or two supervisors in addition to the Director of Studies, and it would be usual for those supervisors to have expert knowledge in one aspect of your project and the work necessary to complete it satisfactorily. The Director of Studies has overall responsibility for your academic supervision, and for ensuring that the team talks and plans together throughout your study.

Tacit: Tacit is a digital journal and blog developed and edited by MIRIAD students and staff, and welcoming contributions by postgraduate students. The journal explores emergent practice-led research, especially as this relates to the ways digital technologies change the nature of arts research. See: http://www.tacitjournal.org/

Viva Voce: Abbreviated as viva, this is the Latin for oral examination. This is your final examination as a research student in which you are required to ‘defend’ your thesis under questioning from an Internal Examiner (MMU) and an External Examiner (from another University), with a Chairperson present to lead the session. For PGR students who are also members of staff at MMU (either on a fractional contract or full-time), two External Examiners are used in order to aid objectivity. A viva is also held at the progression stage of transfer from MPhil to PhD, by two internal staff without a Chairperson.

The defence of your thesis is not quite as draconian as it may sound. Having spent years researching the minutiae of a subject, you rapidly become an expert in the field of your thesis. Your examiners will have an expert knowledge of a related field or a broader field than you are presenting. So, having read your thesis, they will be keen to ask questions about how you went about the research, why you made certain decisions, why the thesis (or argument) you advance is presented in the way it is, and whether the conclusions you draw are robust. This might take the form of an engaged discussion (probably no one will ever read your work more closely), but it can also take the form of questions. The examination may expose some flaws within the thesis, and if this is the case, you will be given the opportunity to revise your work accordingly, with guidance from the examiners.

Workshop Inductions: Inductions for postgraduates are organised through your supervisor(s). A message will be sent to the Technical Group Manager who is in charge of inductions and a time will be arranged for the induction to take place. When possible, postgraduates will be inducted to workshops along with other groups. It is aimed to complete these inductions before November, so notify your supervisors early on if you think you will require use of particular workshops. For more information about the workshop facilities that are available, see: www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/resources/workshops/


Writing Matters: This is a course offered on Wednesdays over the period of two terms. Sixteen place are available, and a commitment to attend the full course is required. The course develops art-and-design-based writing skills, nurtures the development of your individual voice, and supports development of a peer-led writing group. See the Researcher Development Programme brochure for details.

WEBSITE INDEX

Arts and Humanities Research Council, see www.ahrc.ac.uk

Catering facilities, see www.mmu2.ac.uk/food

Code of Practice, see www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/graduate-school-intranet Follow link to Regulations, Code of Practice & Supporting Material

Contact details updating, see www.mmu.ac.uk/enrol click on update arrow

Disability disclosure advice, see www.mmu.ac.uk/sas/studentservices/learner-development

Forms for administrative needs, see www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/online-forms Follow link to Online Forms

Guide to UK doctorate, see www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Doctorate Pages/Doctorate-guide.aspx

Images from Visual Resources Centre, see www.flickr.com/photos/mmuvisualresources

International student MMU website, see www.mmu.ac.uk/international

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, see www.ktponline.org.uk

MIRIAD Online, see www.miriadonline.info

MIRIAD, see www.miriad.mmu.ac.uk

Oral history ethics guidance, see www.ohs.org.uk/ethics.php

Print machines, www.mmu.ac.uk/itservices/mmuprint

Print services contact [email protected]

RD1 and other RD forms: www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/online-forms

Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) web site: www.mmu.ac.uk/rke

Research Student Handbook (University-wide), see www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/regulations- cop-supporting-material and click on the Supporting Materials tab.

Researcher Development Framework, see see https://www.vitae.ac.uk/researchers-professional-development/about-the-vitae-researcher-development-framework-planner

Researchers’ Weekly Bulletin Blog, see www.library.mmu.ac.uk/rwbb

Schedule of research, see www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school/ Follow link to For Research Students then click on Research Student Journeys

Special Collections, see www.specialcollections.mmu.ac.uk

Student Development Programme, see www2.mmu.ac.uk/graduate-school Follow link to Research Students Development, then click on Workshop Descriptions

Student Services (university-wide), see www.mmu.ac.uk/students/ or www.mmu.ac.uk/sas/studentservices/

Support Officer, see www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/studentsupport

Taught MA programmes, see www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate

UK Data Archive (ethics and consents), see www.data-archive.ac.uk/create-manage/consent-ethics

Vitae, see www.vitae.ac.uk

Workshop facilities www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/resources/workshops


GENERAL INDEXGENERAL INDEXAll Saints South Campus: 1, 2Aulich (Prof.), Head of Faculty Research Degrees: 4, 31Annual review: 17, 18, 21, 22, 31Morris (R.), Student Support Officer: 4, 23Büchler (Prof.), Tuesday Talks Programme: 4Building locations: 2Cash machine: 3Catering services: 2, 6, 34Change to subject of study: 22Child Care: 3Code of Practice and Regulations: 1, 8, 34Committee dates: 11Conferment of degree: 28, 29Davis (J.), Curator of Visual Resources Centre: 6Director of MIRIAD: Professor John Hyatt: 4Disability disclosure and advice: 15, 23, 34Doctoral and master’s level skills: 12Downing Collection, textile pattern books: 6E-mail: Forwarding student to private address: 3E-mail: Student e-mail accounts: 3Emergency: ring Security 247 1334Emergency contact number: 18English language requirements: 24English language services (ELSIS): 24Enrolment and registration: 10, 29, 32Entry requirements: 29Ethics check: 15, 30Ethics Committee (Faculty): 29-30Ethics and consent forms: 29-30, 34Examination and post-exam process: 27-28Examiners: 27, 30Exhibition spaces (Righton): 5, 33Extension of registration: 11, 21, 32External advisors: 17Financial services (Credit Control) contact: 4, 25Forms for administrative needs: 8, 15-16, 29-32, 34Full-time/part-time study (changes): 21Graduate School Manager: C. Holdcroft: 4, 8Graduate School Workshops: 8Handbook Editor: Dr P. Sykas: 4Head of Faculty Research Degrees: Prof. J. Aulich: 4, 31Health and Safety contact: 4Holdcroft (C.), Graduate School Manager: 4, 8Hyatt (Prof.), Director of MIRIAD: 4Identity (ID) cards: 3Induction: Graduate School: 3, 31Induction: MIRIAD Induction: 3, 31

International Welfare Officer: 4International students: 22, 24, 34Language of thesis: 12Library, art and design collections: 7Libraries, associated university (SCONUL): 7 Library, news bulletin: 8Libraries and archives, local: 7Lockers: 5MA by research: 14, 16Master’s level skills: 14MPhil by thesis: 14, 16Meeting room: 5, 33Mode of Study change: 21Non-submission: 26O’Connor (D.), Research Administrator: 4, 31PARC North West: 7, 31Penalties for not submitting thesis on time: 26Period of registration: 10, 32-33Personal development portfolio (PDP): 31PhD by practice (route 3): 13-14PhD by published work (route 1 & 2): 12-13PhD by thesis (traditional route): 12 Photocopying and scanning: 5Poulton (M.), manager of workshops: 4Postgraduate student space: 5Post Offices: 3Practice-based research: 12Printing, large format: 5Public engagement: 8-9Rawlings (Dr), Research Methods Support: 4, 23Research Degrees Committee meetings: 11RD1: 10, 11, 15-16, RD forms: 32Referral of research proposal: 11, 33Registration and enrolment: 10, 29, 32RKE Office (Research and Knowledge Exchange): 8, 32Research Administrator (Art & Design): D. O’Connor: 4, 31Research environment: 7-9Research Methods Support: Dr B. Rawlings: 4, 23Research proposal (RD1) and registration: 15-16Research Training Co-ordinator: 4Researcher Development Framework (RDF): 8, 15, 17, 32Researcher Development Programme: 7, 33Shops, faculty-run: 5Special Collections (Library): 7Student Development Programme (Graduate School): 8Student Representatives: 4, 30, 31Student/staff forum: 31Studentships, MIRIAD: 7


Submitting your thesis: 25-26Supervisory meetings: 17-18Supervisory team: 17-18, 21, 29Supervisory team changes: 21Support: Student Support: R. Morris: 4, 23Suspension of registration: 11, 21-22Sykas (Dr), Curator of the Downing Collection: 6Taught MA programmes: 9Thesis submission requirements: 25Timetable (postgraduate): 29Transfer from MA to MPhil: 19Transfer from MPhil to MA: 20Transfer from MPhil to PhD: 19-20Transfer from PhD to MPhil: 20Transfer report: 12, 14, 19-20, 29Transfer viva: 20Trustram (Dr), Research Training Co-ordinator: 4Tuesday Talks Programme: Prof. P. Büchler, co-ordinator: 5Visas: International student visas: 4, 21, 22, 24Visual Resources Centre: 6, 34Vitae (supported by Research Councils UK): 8Viva voce examination: 27, 33Withdrawal of registration: 22Workshop inductions: 6, 33Workshops: M. Poulton, Technical Group Manager: 4Workshops: 6, 33

All the images selected for this issue of the Handbook come from our own Visual Resources Centre. The Centre holds an extensive archive of images built up over many decades of teaching in the Manchester School of Art. These reflect a plethora of subjects that trace the changing preoccupations of art and architecture historians and researchers during years of radical transition. Recently acclaimed as one of the most important “slide libraries” in the country, curator John Davis has kept it at the forefront of developments with popular postings on Flickr and Twitter (see https://www.flickr.com/photos/mmuvisualresources/ and use Twitter identity @VisResCentreMMU). On the level of postgraduate research, the collection is the focus of attention on how the technologies of images and their physical condition shape our understanding of the content. Analogue images are entwined with the materiality of their presentation, and are not interchangeable with digital reproductions.

MIRIAD Research Degree Handbook 2015-2016

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Transcript of MIRIAD Research Degree Handbook 2015-2016