northumbria university phd word count

Module Information

Mo0485 the newcastle business school masters dissertation.

SYNOPSIS OF MODULE This module provides a process which will enable students to use and extend the knowledge and skills that they have acquired during their programme of study. Using appropriate research methodologies and data collection methods, students will critically synthesise a body of knowledge relevant to the taught programme. On successful completion of this module, the student will be able to demonstrate the ability to conduct research and organise the findings into a comprehensive and explicit structure that is critically assessed and is linked to the conclusions drawn. The student will achieve this outcome by identifying an appropriate research topic, critically selecting and applying an appropriate research methodology and data collection method(s) to their chosen research topic, demonstrating a rigorous understanding of the theory and literature relevant to the issues under investigation, and how these link to the research method(s). Students will also be able to critically reflect on how their research contributes to the understanding of the topic area. Students will have been allocated a supervisor following the proposal stage of the process, whilst continuing to study the research methods. This supervisor will give the student appropriate guidance and support throughout the dissertation process whilst encouraging learner autonomy.

INDICATIVE READING LIST OR OTHER LEARNING RESOURCES The Newcastle Business School Masters Dissertation, Pearson Custom Publishing- Compiled by Coates,N & Sloan,D; Anderson, J. & Poole, M. (2002) Assignment and Thesis Writing. 4th edn. Wiley; Baker, M. J. (2003) Business and Management Research: How To Complete Your Research Project Successfully. Westburn Publishers; Blaxter, L., Hughes, C. & Tight, M. (2006) How to Research. 3rd edn. Open University Press; Bryman, A. (1988) Doing research in organizations. Routledge; Burrell, G. & Morgan, G. (1979) Sociological Paradigms and Organisational Analysis. Heinemann; Cassell, C. & Symon, G. (2004) Essential Guide to Qualitative Methods in Organizational Research. Sage; Cassell, C.,Symon, G. & Dickson R. (2000) Qualitative methods in Organizational Research and Practice, European journal of work and organizational psychology, Vol. 9, no.4; Creswell, J. (2007) Qualitative inquiry & research design: choosing among five traditions. 2nd edn. Sage; Creswell, J. (2003) Research Design: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches. 2nd edn. Sage; Easterby-Smith, M., Thorpe, R., & Lowe, A. (2002) Management Research: An Introduction. 2nd edn. Sage; Fisher, C. M. (2007) Researching and Writing a Dissertation: A Guidebook for Business Students. 2nd edn. Financial Times/Prentice Hall; Gill, J. & Johnson, P. (2002) Research Methods for Managers. 3rd edn. Sage; Meloy, J. (2002) Writing the Qualitative Dissertation: Understanding by Doing. 2nd edn., Lawrence Erlbaum; Oppenheim, A. N. (1992) Questionnaire Design, Interviewing and Attitude Measurement. Pinter; Robson, C. (2002) Real World Research: A Resource for Social Scientists and Practitioner-Researchers. 2nd edn. Blackwell; Saunders, M., Lewis P. & Thornhill, A (2007) Research Methods for Business Students. 4th edn., Financial Times/Prentice Hall; The current NBS PG Masters Dissertation Guidelines.

OUTLINE SYLLABUS As part of the dissertation module students will prepare a research proposal which includes an initial review of the research domain, a researchable issue, a brief justification of methodology to be used, initial choice of types of data, methods of data collection and analysis to be employed. Taught sessions will help students to develop skills in these areas. The student will then develop this proposal further under the guidance of a supervisor with additional support from more specialised taught sessions. The completed dissertation will include: Justification for topic choice Appropriate understanding, awareness and critical analysis of existing and up to date literature evidenced by a comprehensive and well-referenced literature review with bibliography An appropriately rigorous methodology with justification of methods used - including limitations Clear statement of the findings of the research Critical analysis of the findings Explicit links between the analysis and the conclusions supported by critical argument Evidence of original work or thought for example in the form or context of the data collected, analytical process or application of findings will be particularly rewarded A Reflective Learning Statement relating to the PG Goals is to be included in the submitted dissertation. The dissertation will normally not exceed 15000 words and must conform to NBS postgraduate dissertation guidelines

AIMS OF MODULE The aim of this module is to provide a process which will enable students to use and extend knowledge and skills that they have acquired during their programme of study. Using appropriate research methodologies and data collection methods, students will critically synthesise a body of knowledge relevant to the taught programme.

LEARNING OUTCOMES At the completion of the masters dissertation module, students will be able to: 1. Select, critically discuss and apply an appropriate research methodology and method (s) to their chosen research topic 2. Demonstrate an awareness of the contexts that impact upon the research topics 3. Demonstrate a rigorous understanding of the theory and literature relevant to the issues under investigation and link this to the research method(s) 4. Conduct research and organise the findings into a comprehensive and explicit structure that is critically assessed and is linked to the conclusions drawn 5. Critically reflect on the processes involved in the research and the contribution of the research to the topic area. 6. Illustrate and document progress within the dissertation process by providing an adequate set of working papers and log book.

PREREQUISITES None

COREQUISITE(S) BM0421 or equivalent

DISTANCE LEARNING DELIVERY None

LEARNING AND TEACHING STRATEGY The module is supported by a teaching and learning plan which outlines the formal sessions, together with the tutor-directed study and independent reading. An interactive approach to lecture sessions will draw upon the directed learning undertaken and participants' own experiences. Throughout, the emphasis will be on high levels of participant participation, both individually and within small groups or teams. Participants can therefore expect the reflective-practitioner approach to learning to be embedded in all workshop/seminar sessions through undertaking activities which facilitate them to apply theory to 'real-life' situations, critically analysing and making recommendations for appropriate ways forward for the organization/individual. Directed learning will centre upon a range of activities including pre-reading, preparation for interactive activities and use of the discussion board on the e-learning platform. Independent learning will centre upon the participants identifying and pursuing areas of interest in relation to the subject area or by providing deeper/broader knowledge and understanding of the subject through a range of learning activities that might include extended reading, reflection, research etc. Critical reflection on knowledge, experience and practice underpins the learning and teaching philosophy along with the explicit development of competence. The initial stages of the module involve preparation of the research proposal. This is supported by a series of lectures, group discussions and workshop sessions coupled with the study texts and published accounts of research using various methods. The aim of this part is to develop a sound understanding in the student of what is meant by a post graduate academic dissertation and the process necessary to develop the initial idea into a realistic dissertation proposal. This will be developed by practice in using these methods in small-scale projects accompanied by critical analysis by self, by peers (mediated for example through internet-based discussion groups) and by academic staff. An appropriate academic member of staff (supervisor) will be appointed after the proposal stage. Whilst the aim of the dissertation is to encourage ownership of the dissertation by the student, the academic member of staff will provide on-going support throughout the process. Ongoing feedback will be provided by the dissertation supervisor who will normally be an academic member of staff. However, the supervisor will not read full drafts of the dissertation. The final dissertation will normally be assessed by at least two academic members of staff. The assessment strategy of the module in summary will comprise formative and summative assessments as detailed below.

ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK STRATEGY a) Summative assessment and rationale for tasks Summative assessment is by submission of a Dissertation Proposal (10% of the total marks, guide length 1500-2000 words) and a Dissertation (90% of the total marks, 15000 words; see regulations below regarding word count). A standard instrument is used to help identify areas which need improvement following submission of the Dissertation Proposal. A comprehensive marking instrument addressing the Dissertation marking criteria is used; references are incorporated within the instrument to the Postgraduate Learning Goals and ethical issues. 1. If the word length of the dissertation does not fall within + or --10% of the maximum 15,000* word length (i.e. between 13,500 and 16,500 words), the dissertation will not be marked and will be recorded on the system as a failed first submission. The student will be offered one opportunity to resubmit and the maximum mark awarded will be capped at 50%. If the resubmission fails, no further resubmission will be allowed. *The word count will not include the title page, declarations page, abstract, contents page, glossary, tables, appendices and end material. 2. A pass mark for the dissertation can be used to compensate a fail mark for the proposal. Provided the dissertation is passed with a mark of 50% or more, when the composite mark results in an overall mark of less than 50%, a mark of 50% will be awarded for the module. b) Additional formative assessment-details of process and rationale Formative feedback will be provided in workshops / seminars re: draft proposal prior to submission, followed by written comment (summative feedback) on submitted proposal which will indicate areas that need improvement. Formative feedback will continue via supervision meetings (tutorials) and summative feedback will be provided following the marking of the dissertation. c) Indication of how students will get feedback and how this will support their learning Feedback will be provided at the following stages: - students will be required to complete a library information sources exercise (formative) - feedback on draft ideas for research proposal (formative) - the dissertation proposal will be formally assessed; 10% of the module (summative) - feedback from supervisor during tutorials (formative) - qualitative research exercise (formative) - the final dissertation will be formally assessed; 90% of the module (summative)

IMPLICATIONS FOR CHOICE None

Northumbria University has taken reasonable care to ensure that the information published is accurate at the time of publication. However, the University gives no warranty or representation as to the quality, accuracy or completeness of the information.

• Work For Us
• Postgraduate Research (PhD)

Department of Architecture and Built Environment

Staff research interests for potential PhD students

For general information and entry requirements on pursuing PhD studies at the Department of Architecture and Built Environment, please contact the ABE PhD Studies Programme Leader,  Seraphim Alvanides

For discussing your research proposal, please contact the member of staff closest to your research interests with a draft title, background, aims, objectives, methods and timeline of your project. We welcome contact by potential PhD students with interests in the topics below.

Banner Image: (c) [email protected]

Study Architecture and Built Environment

• Accreditation and Recognition
• International Links

Venice Biennale Fellowship

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE FRAMEWORK 2021

Explore Campus Facilities

Get an insight into life at Northumbria with videos and 360 panoramas of the Department of Architecture and Built Environment.

Undergraduate Open Days

Looking to study an Undergraduate degree? Book a place today!

Architecture & Built Environment Courses

With a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning Architecture & Built Environment courses, whatever you want to get out of university, let us show you why you want Northumbria University, Newcastle!

Explore NU World

Find out what life here is all about. From studying to socialising, term time to downtime, we’ve got it covered.

Undergraduate Open Day Events

Looking to study in with us in September? Our Undergraduate Open Day Events are the perfect opportunity for you to find out as much as you can about our wide range of courses and world-class facilities.

Latest News and Features

Collaborating with coastal communities on regeneration is key

Researchers at Northumbria University have undertaken a project exploring sustainable planning…

3D printed Newcastle to become Civic Centre art installation

A scale model of Newcastle’s core urban area produced as part of a partnership known as Virtual…

Northumbria is delighted to be part of the British Council’s Venice Fellowship Programme. Two…

EXPERT COMMENT: Building on the greenbelt is central to solving the housing crisis – just look at how the edges of cities have changed

In an article written for The Conversation, Cameron McEwan, Associate Professor in Architecture…

Northumbria University rises in the rankings again

Northumbria University is continuing to climb the national league tables, with an eight-place…

Northumbria named UK’s research university and modern university of the year in new university guide

Northumbria University has been named Research University of the Year and Modern University…

EXPERT COMMENT: Offices: how bad will the property crunch be?

In an article written for The Conversation, Associate Professor for Northumbria University’s…

Northumbria University Visiting Professor secures Women in Engineering Award

A Visiting Professor from Northumbria University’s Faculty of Engineering and Environment has…

Upcoming events

ESREA Life History and Biography Network

Harvard lecture Theatre

EcoMat Conference 2024

Hilton Newcastle Gateshead

International Symposium on Verification and Validation of Cryospheric Models

Northumbria University

Back to top

Northumbria University Psychology Department

Postgraduate research degrees in psychology.

AUTHORS: Libby Orme (Deputy Head of Psychology), Michael Smith (Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange), Crystal Haskell-Ramsay (Postgraduate Research LEAD)

In the psychology department, we have around 30 students studying for postgraduate research (PGR) degrees. The majority of these are working towards a PhD in Psychology

We are currently recruiting for some new funded PhD opportunities , and so have published this blog to give prospective PhD students an idea of what a PhD in the Psychology Department at Northumbria involves. At the end of the post, you’ll find links to more information about each funded opportunity currently advertised, and some details of other opportunities for postgraduate research

What is a PhD in Psychology?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme allow students to undertake an individual programme of original research in psychology, under the supervision of two or more academic staff. You can read about PGR courses at Northumbria in detail here

Each PhD is totally unique, but full-time a PhD lasts about three years and part-time it is typically five years. In this time, a typical doctorate normally involves

• Carrying out a literature review
• Conducting a series of original research projects
• Producing a thesis that presents your conclusions
• Defending your thesis in an oral viva voce exam

PhDs in Psychology typically start in October, and you would normally start the process by having initial meetings with your supervision team and starting to create a plan for your PhD. Within the first four months, you would then submit your plan, which would include your training needs, ethical considerations, funding and costs associates with your research and a detailed timeline showing the feasibility of your PhD plan.

Students then typically progress to carrying out their research projects, with the goal of producing different outputs throughout the course of the PhD. This might include journal articles, literature reviews and conference presentations. The goal is to make an original contribution to knowledge in your field .

Throughout the process, your supervisory team would keep track of your progress and give you regular guidance and advice. Each year, you will also have a formal panel, who will review your progress and confirm that you are still on track, review your training needs and revisit the timeline for your project completion.

At the end of the process, once your written thesis is ready and submitted, you will defend it through a formal oral discussion called a viva voce. This will include one or more experts in your field from another institution, along with an expert within Northumbria.

Training for PhD Students

The Graduate School at Northumbria provides a structured training programme with sessions on statistical analysis, bibliographic software, academic writing skills and ethics in research. Themed workshops are offered on things like ‘doctorate essentials’, ‘managing your research degree’, ‘giving your research impact’, and ‘life after your doctorate’. 

Taught research training modules within our Masters in Research programme are also available to PhD students, such as training in quantitative and qualitative methods, academic skills training (including sessions on dissemination of research, and grant application writing), training in specialist equipment (e.g. polysomnography), statistical analysis using R software and engagement with open science practices.

Part of the training for PhD students involves learning about all aspects of an academic role, including teaching and administration. We’ve previously published  a blog about how academics learn to teach , this also forms part of the learning journey of a PhD student in the psychology department. We offer our PhD students the opportunity to develop their teaching experience by working as a Demonstrator, and support PhD students working as demonstrators to work towards Associate Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy.

Being a PGR Student in the Northumbria Psychology Department

PGR students in psychology work in one of our dedicated PGR or reseach centres within the Department on our City Campus. As a consequence of a strong and supportive framework for PGR supervision and training, we perform well in the Postgraduate Research Experience Survey ( 85% overall PGR satisfaction in 2019 versus a sector average of 82% for the discipline).

PGR students attend departmental research seminars and give presentations within their particular research groups. They are also encouraged to present at international and national conferences (with travel funds awarded on a competitive basis).

The success of our PGR programmes is evidenced by students who win national prizes, including those presented by the BPS Psychology Postgraduate Affairs Group   and BPS PG thesis award.

Advice from our current PGRs

If you love research, and are considering a PhD, its important to take some time and think about whether a PhD is right for you. We asked our current PGRs to tell us a bit about their experience, and for some advise for people considering undertaking a PhD

Studying for a PhD within Psychology at Northumbria is great. There is loads of support available throughout the department, and plenty of opportunities to socialise, but there’s also the freedom to escape into your thoughts if you’re more of a lone-wolf worker (like me!). The thing I enjoy most about studying for a PhD is having the opportunity to explore my own research ideas and to see them develop into detailed studies.  I chose to pursue a PhD because I wanted to invest time in an activity which required a lot of thought, which seems a rarity in life today.   For people considering a PhD, I would recommend asking yourself two questions: 1) Does the prospect of spending 3 years of your life in research excite you? and 2) Is there an overall research topic that you feel you could happily sink your teeth into for 3 years? If you answer ‘no’ to either question, don’t do a PhD. Richard Brown

I really enjoy being able to solely research a topic that I am extremely interested in. It not only provides me with the opportunity to explore a topic of such importance, childhood obesity, but in doing so allows me to meet and network with some many other people in the field. It is exciting to know that the research you are doing could have such a profound impact on health practices moving forward. I chose to study a PhD, because I had experience of being a research assistant at NU and really enjoyed it and wanted to continue along the research path. Since starting my undergraduate degree at Northumbria, I have always been interested in eating disorders and body image research, so when the opportunity came up to be involved in developing an intervention for childhood obesity, I took it. If you are considering a PhD, I would say do it! Be prepared that it is going to be hard work and there will be challenging days, but when you’re researching a topic that you are passionate about, it really helps. It will all be worth it in the end. The PhD community at NU are very supportive, and everyone is always there for each other for both research and emotional support. The staff have a great level of expertise in their field of research, and there is always someone who can help. Beth Ridley

Applying for a PhD Position in Psychology

PGR students are a central part of our research culture and the University provides a Research Development Fund offering fully funded studentships . This includes funding for the tuition plus a stipend to support your living costs. These are opportunities designed by a member of staff (or a team of staff), which have been reviewed within the department and selected through a competitive process. We then advertise these projects to prospective students, and then the candidate and the project are put forward to the university who make the final decision about whether the project will be funded.

In addition, staff often receive funding from other sources to support PhD programmes and these are then advertised via the university’s research degree opportunity pages.

Students are also able to self-fund research degrees, or contact relevant staff members to discuss applications for funding if you have particular ideas. We’d always recommend discussing it with a member of staff first, but details of how to apply for self-funded PhDs can be found here .

Read more about our current opportunities here

In the department of psychology, we currently have a range of funded PhD opportunities advertised with a deadlines in January 2024 . You can find the full details of these here , and more information about the application process here

Investigation of Zanthoxylum armatum DC (Nepalese pepper) in healthy humans (Ref: RDFC23/HLS/PSY/JACKSON)

Keen on green: Working with residents to develop interventions for promoting biodiversity in urban green space (Ref: IDRT24/HLS/UF/SHEPHERD)

“How do working women define and manage work/family borders post pandemic?” (Ref: RDF24/HLS/PSY/THOMAS)

The ‘Mean Girl’ effect: Investigating how economic inequality fosters competition and aggression in women (Ref: RDF24/HLS/PSY/ROTELLA)

Perfectionism in UK Higher Education Students: Evaluating Risks and a Peer-Led Intervention for Managing Perfectionism (Ref: RDF24/HLS/PSY/GRUGAN)

Revealing the Unseen: Enhancing awareness of ‘invisible’ visual impairment following stroke (Ref: RDF24/HLS/PSY/DUNNE)

Unpacking the Beauty Premium: Understanding the effect of physical attractiveness on appearance-based discrimination (Ref: RDF24/HLS/PSY/BOVET)

Dementia Messaging, Myths and Misinformation (Ref: RDF24/HLS/PSY/ASTELL)

Share this:

Leave a comment cancel reply.

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

PhD Studentships & How to Apply

PhD studentships are advertised each year on findaphd.com and, for PhD opportunities that start in September 2024, full details can be found  here .

PhD studentships

We have up to 8 fully-funded PhD studentships available for entry in September 2024. These studentships are for 4 years and include full UK fees, a living allowance (this was £18,622 for 2023/24 full time study), and additional funding to cover research costs and national/international travel such as conferences. Students will undertake a PhD in STFC science (see project descriptions below), will do formal training in Data Intensive Science and will spend six months in an industrial placement.

The Centre covers a wide range of STFC science. For a September 2024 entry, we are offering the following PhD opportunities:

principal supervisor:  Dr Patrick Antolin , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/ANTOLIN

principal supervisor:  Dr Sarah Bentley , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/BENTLEY

principal supervisor:  Dr Gert Botha , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/BOTHA

principal supervisor:  Dr John Coxon , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/COXON

principal supervisor:  Dr Charlotte Goetz , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/GOETZ

principal supervisor: Dr Mojtaba Mansour Abadi, Advert reference: NUDATA24/MPEE/EE/MANSOURABADI

principal supervisor:  Dr Richard Morton , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/MORTON

principal supervisor:  Professor Jonathan Rae , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/RAE

principal supervisor: Dr Daniel Ratliff, Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/RATLIFF

principal supervisor:  Dr Andy Smith , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/SMITH

principal supervisor:  Dr Andy Smith , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/SMITHCOXON

principal supervisor:  Dr Julia Stawarz , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/STAWARZ

principal supervisor:  Dr Matthew Townson , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/TOWNSON

principal supervisor: Dr Craig Warren, Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MCE/WARREN

principal supervisor:  Professor Clare Watt , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/WATT

principal supervisor:  Professor Robert Wicks , Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/WICKS

principal supervisor: Dr Stephanie Yardley, Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/YARDLEY

principal supervisor: Dr Qiuyi Yi, Advert reference: NUDATA24/EE/CIS/YI

principal supervisor: Dr Dominic Bowman, Advert reference: NUDATA01

principal supervisor: Professor Tamara Rogers, Advert reference: NUDATA02

principal supervisor: Dr David Rosario, Advert reference: NUDATA03

principal supervisor: Dr T Costa, Advert reference: NUDATA04

principal supervisor: Dr Christopher Harrison, Advert reference: NUDATA05

principal supervisor: Dr G Rigopoulos and Prof NP Proukakis, Advert reference: NUDATA06

principal supervisor: Dr Markus Rau, Advert reference: NUDATA07

principal supervisor: Dr Markus Rau, Advert reference: NUDATA08

principal supervisor: Dr Marika Asgari, Advert reference: NUDATA09

If you wish to discuss your application informally then please email Professor James McLaughlin (Northumbria: [email protected] ) or Professor Tamara Rogers (Newcastle: [email protected] ). If you want to discuss a specific project, it is best to contact the specific supervisor (the findaphd.com hyperlinks will tell you the supervisor). We are happy to provide all applicants with guidance.

Recruitment Event (15.01.2024)

You will join a strong and supportive research team. To help better understand the aims of the CDT and to meet the PhD supervisors, we are hosting a day-long event on campus on Monday 15th January 2024.

At that event, there will be an opportunity to discuss your research ideas, meet potential PhD supervisors, as well as hear from speakers from a variety of backgrounds (academia, industry, government, charity) discussing both STFC and data science as well as their personal paths and backgrounds. UK travel and accommodation (if needed) will be covered , but funds are limited, so please register early. We can only cover travel and accommodation expenses within the UK (if you wish to attend from outside of the UK, you will be responsible for your own travel costs, but we can cover your internal travel expenses). Please register via https://forms.office.com/e/aGtS6fmM6x . If there are any problems or something unclear, then email Professor James McLaughlin ( [email protected]) and/or Professor Tamara Rogers ([email protected]) .

How to Apply

The NUdata CDT is offering multiple potential PhD projects this year (see list above). If you are interested in more than one of the offered projects, then you can say this in the cover letter of your application and then either [1] you can specifically indicate the other projects you are interested in, or [2] state you are happy to be considered for other projects in general. If you are shortlisted, we will then contact you to discuss these other projects.  You are strongly encouraged to do this .

If you are interested in projects offered by both institutions, then please submit two separate applications – one to each University – in order to be considered for all your preferred projects. In other words, it is best to apply to each institution separately (so that your application is in that university’s system) but in your cover letter you can specify which specific projects you are interested in. For example, if you were interested in X projects with Northumbria-based supervisors and Y projects with Newcastle-based supervisors, you can submit once to Northumbria University and in your cover letter state you are interested in those X Northumbria-led projects, and then you could submit once to Newcastle University and in your cover letter state you are interested in those Y Newcastle-led projects.

• If you are interested in applying to projects with a Northumbria-University-based PhD supervisor , then please visit https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/ for further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form.
• If you are interested in applying to projects with a  Newcastle-University-based PhD supervisor , then please visit  https://applyto.newcastle.ac.uk/SignIn?returnUrl=/   for further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form.

You must include the relevant advert reference/studentship code in your application (e.g. NUDATA01 or NUDATA24/EE/MPEE/MORTON, etc). This will allow the relevant university to keep track of your application.

In addition, note that Newcastle University applicants should search for Astrophysics under Course Title / Course Code in the application portal and choose “PhD in Astrophysics”. The portal will ask for a personal statement and a proposal to be submitted. Note that we do not require a proposal (you can copy the text from the webpage or upload a blank pdf). For your personal statement include a covering letter, listing the projects that you would like to apply to in order of preference and detail how your experience is relevant to the selected project(s).

Also please add this code

• 8216F – PhD in Astrophysics

under the studentship/Partnership Reference. The portal will ask you for additional information such as your academic transcripts, CV and language certificates for non-native English speakers, which are all required.

I f anything is unclear, feel free to contact Professor James McLaughlin (Northumbria: [email protected] ) or Professor Tamara Rogers (Newcastle: [email protected] ). We are happy to provide all applicants with guidance.

Northumbria University uses cookies to improve your experience on our site. By clicking accept you consent to our cookies on this device.

Privacy overview.

• Accessibility Tools

• Cyber Security
• Project Management
• All Courses
• Dates and Fees
• Make a Payment
• Scholarships
• Student Budget Calculator
• Pre-Arrival Information
• Enrolment Information
• Accommodation
• Postgraduate Degrees
• Pre-Masters
• Undergraduate Degrees
• Pre-Sessional English and Study Skills
• Study in January
• Study in May
• Study in September
• Blog: Full-Time or Part-Time?
• Advanced Practice
• Internships
• European Union
• All Countries
• Entry Requirements
• MSc Business with International Management
• MSc Computing and Technology
• MSc Cyber Security
• MSc Cyber Security Technology
• MSc Information Security Management
• MSc Programme and Project Management
• MSc Strategic Leadership
• MSc Web and Mobile Development Technologies
• What to Expect with Weekend Study
• Financing Options
• Meet Our Students
• Meet Our Faculty
• I Am Northumbria
• Student Futures and Careers
• Student Support
• Cost of Living
• Professional Pathways
• Our London Campus Partner
• Consultancy Clinic
• Virtual Tour
• How to find us
• The Best Lunches For Around £10 Near Campus
• The Five Best Coffee Shops Near Our London Campus
• What is Student Finance England?
• Infographic: Advanced Practice Internship Snapshot
• Back to Education: A Mature Student’s Guide
• Virtual 16th International Conference on Global Security, Safety & Sustainability, ICGS3-24
• How to Apply
• Enquire Now
• Your Prospectus
• Enquire now

International Students

Working professionals, subject areas, new students, study levels, upcoming start-dates, study options, your country.

• Entry requirements

Studying in London

Part-time masters, why northumbria.

• Pre-sessional English and Study Skills
• The Best Lunches Around £10 Near the London Campus
• Back to Education: A Mature Student's Guide

15 Essential Dissertation Questions Answered

This National Dissertation Day, we asked our dissertation advisers to answer some of the most common questions they get asked by students. These range from what you need to know before you start, tips for when you’re writing, and things to check when you’ve finished.

1. Before you start writing

Q: What is a dissertation?

A: A research project with a word count of 12,000+ at Master’s level.

Q: What is the difference between a postgraduate and an undergraduate dissertation?

A: The length for Undergraduate is less than 12,000 words and for Postgraduate it is more than 15,000 words. Level 7 requires a higher level of critical debate, better synthesis of the arguments, and more independence in research. It also requires originality and an attempt to touch, challenge, or expand the body of existing knowledge.

Q: How much time should be spent writing a dissertation?

A: An Undergraduate dissertation is worth is 40 credits (from 360 in total) and should take 300-400 hours. A Postgraduate dissertation is worth 60 credits (from 180 in total) and should take 400-600 hours.

Q: What is the best way to pick a topic and where should the focus be when writing?

A: As per your pathways of study and incorporating your areas of interest, based on previous research papers and contemporary or futuristic issues.

Q: What kind of research do students need to complete before starting?

A: Both Undergraduate and Postgraduate students study a module on research methodology and develop a research proposal, based on previous research.

2. Whilst you write your dissertation

Q: Can dissertations include other media i.e. imagery, videos, graphs, external links to examples?

In most programmes this is not possible, however specific programmes such as MA design, media studies, or architecture may allow various media to be included.

Q: How much support is offered by advisers?

A: Students are offered 4 hours of one-to-one supervision spread over 12-14 weeks of a term.

Q: Are students able to submit multiple drafts?

Yes, this is allowed.

Q: What is the policy on dissertation deadline extensions?

A: A student can be granted late authorisation (two extra weeks) or personal extenuating circumstances, but there needs to be evidence to support the requests.

3. What advisers see after the dissertation submission

Q: What are some of the most common mistakes advisers see with dissertations?

A: The following:

• Non-focused research objectives and a lack of SMART research topics
• Not enough depth and critical debate in the literature review
• A lack of justification of research methods and not using a reliable questionnaire
• A failure to use required methods of qualitative or quantitative research
• Not discussing their results

Q: What makes a truly great dissertation?

• A well-structured piece of work with a clear introduction, literature review, research methods, findings, discussions, and conclusions
• A dissertation that follows TAASE (Theory, Applications, Analysis, Synthesis, and Evaluation)
• Work that meets the module’s learning objectives

Q: What does excellent collaboration between a student and an adviser look like?

A: Regular planned meetings, mutual respect, and a partnership where both of the parties are motivated and inspired for the research.

Q: What’s one key piece of advice you can give to prospective Master’s students on dissertation writing?

A: Critically read and benchmark previous peer-reviewed research journals in your area of research. Regularly attend supervision meetings and work continuously and not only towards the end of the term. Be honest and ethical in your data collection.

If you need more information about dissertation writing or pursuing a degree, please contact us using the details below:

• To find out more about our courses: https://london.northumbria.ac.uk/courses/
• For support with study skills please email your Academic Community of Excellence (ACE) Team .

Related posts

Quick contact

Please note, this will overwrite any previous communication preferences you may have already specified to us on our website or websites relating to our University Partners. You can change your communication preferences at any time. QA Higher Education will process your personal data as set out in our privacy notice

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. By continuing to use this website, you agree to our Cookie Notice & Privacy Notice .

• Library Services

Q. What is included in the word count?

• 25 Assignment support
• 5 Book allocation
• 11 Databases
• 8 Directional
• 18 Eresources
• 24 Library services
• 15 My library account
• 3 Partner courses
• 14 Procedures
• 61 Referencing
• 40 Research support
• 17 Search strategy
• 1 Study spaces
• 1 Systematic review
• 3 Walk in access

Related Topics

• Assignment support

Need more help?

Answered by: ros sykes last updated: dec 13, 2023     views: 12090.

The word count usually includes everything in the main body of the text including citations, quotations and tables. Everything before the main text (e.g. abstract, acknowledgements, contents, executive summaries) and everything after the main text (e.g. references, bibliographies, appendices) are not included in the word count limit.

There are exceptions to this, but if there is an exception it should be explained in your assessment brief.  For more information see the University Assessment Policy .

• Share on Facebook

Was this helpful? Yes 10 No 3

Comments (0)

Award winning services from an outstanding team.

LIBRARY SERVICES AND CORONAVIRUS : we're offering support and extra online resources during the COVID-19 outbreak.

• Work For Us
• REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
• Book an Open Day

If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Part-Time 5 Years Part-Time | October Start

• Request More Information
• Entry Requirements
• Register Your Interest

• Course Overview
• Fees, Funding & Scholarships

The PhD Programme is part of a portfolio of doctoral programmes within Northumbria University.

The PhD Programme allows students to undertake an individual programme of research development that will enable original research to doctoral level in their chosen field of study. The Programme is designed to challenge students at the highest level of thoughts and to advance career opportunities through enhancing academic and professional development.

The programme aims to enable students to:

• Develop research skills through a programme of in-depth study, and personal and research development
• Develop expertise in appropriate methods of research and enquiry
• Produce high-quality research outputs which demonstrate critical judgement and original contribution to knowledge
• Produce a research thesis (of approximately 80,000 words)

Students will be expected to pass through milestone targets in each year of study giving clear structure to the PhD programme. For both full and part-time programmes, these milestones include Project Approval and Annual Progression.

Northumbria University is a research-rich, business focused, professional university with a global reputation for academic excellence. The University is in the Times Higher Education UK top 50 for research power, based on the results of the Research Excellence Framework.

Click here to find out more about Research at Northumbria.

For the 3 year full-time PhD programme, click here .

We've invested £200 million to make sure that our campuses are places where you enjoy spending time. Our modern city campus is designed with you in mind, you'll find everything to give you an outstanding student experience including our world-class Sport Central, award-winning university library, new Trinity Square accommodation and excellent catering facilities.

The Graduate School is at the heart of the university's support network for research students, working closely with the research community across the university to promote high-quality academic and professional standards through the network of the Graduate School Committees and School Research Committees which monitor quality and manage student progression on behalf of the Academic Board. From enrolment to viva, you'll benefit from focused training and development programmes solely reserved for research students. Contents of programmes are designed to support students at all stages of your research degree.

The university is firmly committed to developing the careers of researchers, whether they are pursuing a dedicated research career or carrying out research as part of a wider teaching and research role. The university has made significant investment in research, and we aim to be known for our development of Early Career Researchers.

Northumbria University was awarded the European Commission HR Excellence in Research award in January 2013, rewarding the University's commitment to supporting both research careers and excellent working conditions for researchers.

We have a large number of research groups focused on different subject areas, including, but not limited to;

• Applied Chemistry
• Health Interventions and Wellbeing
• Mammalian Cell Biology & Immunology
• Development & Resilience
• Social and Cultural Geographies
• Brain Performance and Nutrition Research Centre
• Language and Cognition
• Microwave Imaging and Antenna
• Power and Wind Energy (PaWE)
• Creative Writing and Modern & Contemporary Literature
• Digital Business and Strategic Innovation
• Entrepreneurial Leadership

Please click here to find out more about our research.

Application Deadlines

Application deadlines are as follows:

*DBA/DBL is an  October  intake only. The deadline is 1 June.

Course Information

Level of Study Research

Mode of Study 5 years

Location Various Locations

City Newcastle

Fees Fee Information

Book a Virtual Open Day / Experience Philosophy

Visit an Open Day to find out about life in Newcastle, tour our facilities, discover your funding options and chat to staff and students.

Entry Requirements 2024/25

Standard entry.

Applicants should normally have A minimum of a 2.1 honours degree; or a Masters (preference for Merit or above); or APEL evidence of substantial practitioner achievement.

A 1000 word research proposal, outlining your area of research; please note that even if you are applying for a specific research vacancy with a pre-defined research proposal, you are still required to write a proposal expanding on the provided description of the project. For guidance on writing your research proposal, please see  here . Applied Sciences studentships do not require submission of a proposal, please refer to the studentship advert for further information. 

If you are applying for a course within Newcastle Business School or Northumbria Law School you will need to use the  PGR Research Proposal Template

International qualifications: If you have studied a non UK qualification, you can see how your qualifications compare to the standard entry criteria, by selecting the country that you received the qualification in, from our country pages. Visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry English Language requirements: International applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with component 6.0 in each component (or approved equivalent*). Applications to the Faculty of Business and Law also require a writing component score of 6.5. *The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS.  You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades you will need in our English Language section. Visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

Fees and Funding 2024/25 Entry

Full UK Fee: TBC

Full EU Fee: TBC

Full International Fee: TBC

Please note, the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme is not eligible for the Doctoral Loan.  Further information can be found on the Government website.

Click here for UK, EU and International scholarship, fees, and funding information..

ADDITIONAL COSTS

There are no Additional Costs

If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Part-Time

Start month, any questions.

Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help.  They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form .

Accessibility and Student Inclusion

Northumbria University is committed to developing an inclusive, diverse and accessible campus and wider University community and are determined to ensure that opportunities we provide are open to all.

We are proud to work in partnership with  AccessAble  to provide Detailed Access Guides to our buildings and facilities across our City, Coach Lane and London Campuses. A Detailed Access Guide lets you know what access will be like when you visit somewhere. It looks at the route you will use getting in and what is available inside. All guides have Accessibility Symbols that give you a quick overview of what is available, and photographs to show you what to expect. The guides are produced by trained surveyors who visit our campuses annually to ensure you have trusted and accurate information.

You can use Northumbria’s AccessAble Guides anytime to check the accessibility of a building or facility and to plan your routes and journeys. Search by location, building or accessibility feature to find the information you need. 

We are dedicated to helping students who may require additional support during their student journey and offer 1-1 advice and guidance appropriate to individual requirements. If you feel you may need additional support you can find out more about what we offer here where you can also contact us with any questions you may have:

Accessibility support

Student Inclusion support

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Your Learning Experience Find out about our distinctive approach at  www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp

Admissions Terms and Conditions northumbria.ac.uk/terms Fees and Funding northumbria.ac.uk/fees Admissions Policy northumbria.ac.uk/adpolicy Admissions Complaints Policy northumbria.ac.uk/complaints

You might also be interested in...

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Northumbria Open Days

Open Days are a great way for you to get a feel of the University, the city of Newcastle upon Tyne and the course(s) you are interested in.

Fees, Funding and Scholarships

Information about all of our tuition fees, funding and scholarships.

Virtual Tour

Get an insight into life at Northumbria at the click of a button! Come and explore our videos and 360 panoramas to immerse yourself in our campuses and get a feel for what it is like studying here using our interactive virtual tour.

Back to top

• Sen, S. (Examiner)

Activity : Examination

Description

Search Results