Primary tabs
The Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience (PDN) offers excellent opportunities and facilities for training in research, leading to the MPhil (Master of Philosophy) degree.
Our one-year full-time (two years part-time) MPhil research programme leads to the MPhil in Veterinary Science degree. Students also attend relevant lectures and seminars and participate in skills development training activities organised by the department and the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences. The main aims of the course are:
- to give students with relevant experience at the first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focussed research in the discipline under close supervision; and
- to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.
Students usually start their project in October and submit a thesis of not more than 20,000 words by the end of August. We also accept students to start in January and April.
Full information on potential supervisors and research projects can be found on the Postgraduate Education page on the department website. Candidates are required to contact potential supervisors in advance of applying. General enquiries concerning postgraduate opportunities within the Department of PDN can also be directed to postgradinfo@pdn.cam.ac.uk. Initial enquiries should be made as early as possible.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the MPhil, students will have:
- a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research;
- demonstrated 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;
- shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies; and
- demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.
Continuing
MPhil students wishing to apply for a PhD at Cambridge following the successful completion of their MPhil can apply as a continuer: see the information for continuing students on the Postgraduate Admissions website for more details.
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, full funding and resources required for the research; and acceptance by the Head of Department and the Degree Committee.
Open Days
The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the beginning of November. 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.