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We offer our MPhil degree full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months.
This is a research-based degree during which students undertake a research project and produce a thesis. Assessment is by oral examination based on the thesis and a broader knowledge of the chosen area of research.
Each student is assigned a Principal Supervisor who oversees their research project and an adviser who provides additional support. Our Postgraduate Administrator acts as the first point of contact for any student with a query or difficulty that is not directly related to their scientific work. All student matters in the department are overseen by our Director of Postgraduate Education and the Cancer Biology Postgraduate Education Committee.
Most research training is provided within the structure of the student’s research group and informal opportunities to develop research skills are available through mentoring by other members of staff and fellow students. Students are encouraged to attend scientific meetings, seminars and postgraduate courses relevant to their area of interest. They are also expected to participate in journal clubs and lab meetings and to take advantage of the numerous and varied opportunities including transferable skills training offered by the University.
The MPhil course is designed to produce postgraduates with rigorous research and analytical skills, who are exceptionally well equipped to go on to doctoral study, postgraduate research, or employment in industry and the public service.
The course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge and aims to provide them with:
- relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and
- the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the degree course students will have demonstrated:
- a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research;
- originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
- ability to critically evaluate current research, research techniques and methodologies;
- self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.
Continuing
Continuation from MPhil to PhD is possible although it is not automatic. All cases are judged on their own merits based on a number of factors, including evidence of progress and research potential; a sound research proposal; the availability of a suitable supervisor and of resources required for the research; and acceptance by the head of department and the degree committee
The minimum standard required to progress to a PhD degree after completion of an MPhil degree is a pass.
Open Days
The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the Postgraduate Open Day page for more details.
See further the Postgraduate Admissions Events pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.