Frequently asked questions

What is a PGR degree?

A postgraduate research (PGR) degree involves you undertaking a substantial individual research project which is the main focus of the examination process. You will normally undertake some taught modules to help you prepare to undertake the research but these are secondary to the research project and preparation of the thesis.

You have to pass the taught modules but at the end of the programme you will undergo a substantial oral examination which determines the result of your programme of study. A PGR degree will involve you making either a significant and original contribution to knowledge or, at the Masters by Research level, applying advanced knowledge.

What is an original and significant contribution to knowledge?

Anyone beginning a MPhil or PhD should be aware of the specific standards and expectations of the discipline area regarding a significant and original contribution to knowledge. This is usually developed in discussion with an experienced Director of Studies (DoS). However, in general most candidates for a MPhil or PhD attempt to base their claim on doing one or more of the following:

a) Develop new model, paradigm or conceptual framework and test it in application.

b) Successfully challenge existing model or paradigm and show how it can be improved or why it should be discarded in certain circumstances.

c) Show that “taken for granted” truths or assumptions are not substantiated by evidence.

d) Extend a model or paradigm developed for one field to another and show how its use refines, deepens or changes understanding of the target field.

e) Open up a new field and map its “topography” for later researchers to do in-depth work.

f) Develop an existing methodology, form of enquiry or tool set for data collection, analysis, display or interpretation and show how its use in application proved to be superior in some circumstances compared to other tools etc.

g) Show limitations and errors in existing dominant methodologies, forms of enquiry or use of existing tools or analytical methods and the consequences for interpretation of previous structures.

h) Add progressively to understanding of an issue, part of a field of a complex problem, multidisciplinary issue, social or natural phenomenon or professional practice by a series of linked in-depth studies or experiments.

i) Build on and add to an existing theory by providing new insights as a consequence of interrogating original data generated from fieldwork or experiment.

j) Create novel artefacts in any medium (e.g. photography, painting, textile, sculpture) which answer new research questions in professional practice including the synthesis of the artefact with analytical narrative.

These are not the only ways in which a significant original contribution to knowledge can be made but they are the most common.

What are the entry requirements for a research degree?

The normal entrance requirement is a good undergraduate (BA, BSc, BEng) or a taught postgraduate degree (MA, MSc). Overseas students also need to be proficient in English and have an IELTS score of 6.5 or better.

How do I decide on the topic for my research?

We advertise potential research degree topics with a Director of Studies (DoS) on our Research Opportunities pages. It is important to focus on selecting a DoS with experience in supervising this topic in an area where there are the facilities to support PGR degree students. If you are interested in researching something similar to one of the projects listed then it may be worthwhile contacting the DoS by email to informally discuss your ideas and whether they can be supervised.

How long will it take to complete a postgraduate research degree at Coventry University?

The University operates a minimum and maximum registration period which is detailed below, however, the normal expectation for full-time PhD students is three years from the start of their candidature.

How is a PGR degree assessed?

The taught Masters modules will be normally assessed through coursework and examination. You will probably be placed in a class with other research and taught postgraduate students for these modules.

At Coventry we use modules through the programme of study to track your progress and ensure you are getting regular and clear feedback. These are assessed initially by your DoS who will provide you with a mark and feedback.

At the end of approximately 12 months for a full-time and 24 months for a part-time student you will present your work and future plans to a Progress Review Panel (PRP). At the end of the PRP they will provide you with feedback on your performance and decide if you can progress to the next phase, need to address issues or target a fallback award.

You will normally undergo two PRPs during your programme of study. Providing you have passed all the modules at the end of your programme of study, you will undergo an external oral examination based around your research and a substantial thesis. The oral examination will determine the overall result and will involve at least two independent examiners, one of whom will be independent of the University.