Teaching

This is a research-based course. Non-assessed events in which students are expected to participate include oral and poster presentations on their research, and attendance of professional skills sessions, laboratory sessions and individual meetings with the course director.

The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University’s expectations regarding teaching and examination of MPhil degrees.

One to one supervision	Students receive one-to-one supervision on their research project; these are scheduled as and when required and feasible. Students are encouraged to attend relevant seminars, and participate in post-seminar informal discussions with academic staff and other students.
Seminars & classes	The MPhil in Biological Anthropological Science does not have a teaching component in the form of lectures or seminars. However, students are strongly encouraged to attend the MPhil Research Skills seminars, and the Biological Anthropology seminar series that take place once a week during term, and any other seminars relevant to their study.
Lectures	None required, but students are free to attend any lectures in the Department.
Practicals	None required, but students are encouraged to attend any practicals associated with courses that would enhance their methodological and technical skills. Students should approach the relevant course coordinator for permission, as these sessions may have restricted-size classes
Journal clubs	Journal clubs are normally student-driven and organised around particular interest groups. Students are encouraged to organise them, and to invite other students and researchers to participate.
Posters and Presentations	Students are expected to give two presentations during their course to develop their science communication skills focused on their thesis progression - one in the form of a poster, the other as a short powerpoint presentation.
Taught/Research Balance	Entirely Research

Feedback

Students can expect to receive termly online progress reports. Supervisors or module coordinators may provide additional written or oral feedback on assessed work.

Students are invited to group meetings throughout the year to discuss progress and concerns in order to address issues as and when they arise.

Assessment

Thesis / Dissertation

The thesis is an extended piece of independent, original research. Students work with their supervisor to formulate a thesis project, carry out research and write it up. Students may choose between two alternative formats for their thesis:

• either in the form of a thesis of not more than 30,000 words in length, or

• in the form of at least two research articles. The articles may be in preparation, submitted for publication or already published, and the combined work should not exceed 30,000 words.

The assessment includes an oral examination (viva) on the thesis and on the general field of knowledge within which it falls. The thesis shall provide evidence to satisfy the examiners that a candidate can design and carry out investigations, assess and interpret the results obtained, and place the work in the wider perspectives of the subject. The thesis and examination form the sole assessment for the degree.

Essays

The MPhil in Biological Anthropological Science is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis.