Progress of research students
Essential practice
It is essential for PGR students' progress to be formally assessed by departments at 6 monthly intervals, in addition to the recording of formal supervisory meetings. This may take the form of a formal progress report (e.g. the student's Annual Progress Report or a departmental variation) and/or a designated task to be completed by the student (e.g. a poster presentation). Where a report is used, this should be submitted to the Postgraduate Tutor. Progress reports should be discussed with the student and the student given the opportunity to add further comments, if appropriate. Where difficulties arise, the department must ensure that the situation is referred to the Faculty for further consideration.
Procedures for Joint Location and Remote Location study will vary and students and staff should consult the relevant guidance.
It is recommended that there is enhanced monitoring of PGR students' progress once they move Into their 4th year of study, e.g. sending a letter at 36 months to remind the student that they are moving into their 4th year, followed by progress reports every three months.
Departments are required by Senate to monitor the attendance of all students. This process should assist departments in identifying problems at an early stage and offering students appropriate support.
Annual Progress Reports
In the summer of each year, Annual Progress Reports for all students must be submitted to Research & Innovation Services for consideration by the Faculty. Completed Annual Progress Reports should be discussed with the student prior to submission. These reports allow supervisors to reflect on a student´s progress during the previous year and to plan for the year ahead, and are an important method of providing formal feedback to students that may not otherwise be addressed in supervisory meetings. Students are required to sign the Annual Progress Report to verify that they have seen its contents. The Annual Progress Report also includes a section reflecting on the student's progress on the DDP, where relevant.