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Postgraduate Study

Teaching

This MPhil course is entirely research-based with no taught elements. A principal Supervisor is appointed for each student individually, and the Degree Committee approves the research topic.

One to one supervision

The pattern of individual supervision and additional training as needed are agreed upon between the Supervisor and student. It is not unusual for students to meet with their Supervisor weekly, and the minimum frequency of meetings should be at least twice a month.

The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University’s expectations regarding supervision.

Journal clubs

MPhil students are encouraged to attend weekly Journal Club sessions with our first-year PhD cohort during term.

Posters and Presentations

MPhil students are encouraged to attend weekly presentation practice sessions during term time with our first-year PhD cohort.

Feedback

Students can expect to receive feedback from their supervisors on an ongoing basis. Each term, formal reports are provided, and they are available online.

Assessment

Thesis / Dissertation

The examination requirement for the MPhil is a thesis of not more than 15,000 words in length, exclusive of tables, footnotes, bibliography, and appendices, on a subject approved by the Degree Committee for the Faculty of Physics and Chemistry.

The examination shall include a viva (oral examination) with two examiners on the thesis and the general field of knowledge within which it falls. The thesis shall provide evidence to satisfy the examiners that the candidate can design and carry out investigations, assess and interpret the results obtained, and place the work in the wider perspective of the subject.

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Key Information


12 months full-time

2 years part-time

Study Mode : Research

Master of Philosophy

Institute of Astronomy

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Michaelmas 2025

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2025

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 16, 2024

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.


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