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Teaching
In their first year, students are set a number of research modules, research assignments or self-study assignments that will be assessed. These are individually tailored to the student by their supervisor, pathway representative and PhD Director. The number and nature of assessed assignments vary by pathway but typically three is the minimum. Most first-year students are required to complete a first-year report (of up to 20,000 words). Students in the Finance pathway are required to take a comprehensive examination.
At the start of each academic year, a plan for non-assessed training is agreed between the student and their supervisor. This might entail attending further modules within the University or academic workshops at other institutions. There are expected timelines for progress on research papers and conference presentations in years 2–4 of the PhD which vary by pathway.
All PhD students are expected to attend the internal seminars, conferences and reading clubs pertaining to their subject group.
For further details listed by pathway, please see the departmental website.
| One to one supervision | Each student has a principal supervisor, who may over the course of the PhD assemble a group of faculty (a PhD advisory committee) who will be actively involved in joint research with the student. Collaborating faculty on a student’s research project is expected to meet their students regularly. In phases of the student’s work when a faculty member takes an advisory role, weekly supervisions are appropriate. During phases of co-authoring research papers for publication, meetings between faculty and students are more frequent: several times per week. The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University’s expectations regarding supervision. |
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Feedback
First-year PhD students receive qualitative and quantitative feedback on their assessed modules, first-year report and comprehensive exam, and suggestions for improving their performance on the courses. They are also welcome to approach faculty for informal advice and guidance.
All PhD students receive regular verbal feedback at supervisions, subject group seminars and progress presentations.
Assessment
Thesis / Dissertation
The PhD is assessed through examination of a thesis including an oral examination. The thesis must not exceed 80,000 words (excluding bibliography) and must not normally be less than 40,000 words.