Program Overview

Introduction to the BBSRC Doctoral Training Programme

The Doctor of Philosophy (BBSRC Doctoral Training Programme) is a comprehensive program that comprises two primary elements: a taught element in Research Methods in Life Sciences, pursued at the University of Bristol, and a period of doctoral research at Swansea University, leading to the award of a PhD from Swansea University.

Overview of the Program

• The program is designed to ensure that students receive a thorough education in research methods and a substantial period of research.
• The taught element is completed at the University of Bristol, while the research element is conducted at Swansea University.
• The program's structure and delivery model are specified by the faculties/schools at the point of program approval.

Entry Conditions

Introduction

This section outlines the requirements for admission to the BBSRC Doctoral Training Programme.

• Students must normally hold (or be expected to achieve) an initial degree of a UK university or another university approved by Senate with a minimum classification of upper second (2:1) or Swansea University recognized equivalent.
• All students are required to meet the University and program English Language entry requirements.

Decision for Admission

• The decision as to whether an applicant should be admitted to a proposed program of research shall rest with the SWBio Hub Panel in line with BBSRC requirements.
• Decisions should be based on factors including:
  • Whether the Panel is satisfied that the applicant is of the required academic standard to complete the program of research proposed.
  • Whether the applicant's chosen research topic is appropriate for study in the depth required for the degree.
  • Whether adequate supervision could be provided by an appropriate member of staff.
  • Whether there are appropriate resources and facilities in place to support the proposed program of research.

Enrolment and Methods of Study

Enrolment

• The University expects all students to enrol at Swansea University from the start of the program.
• Students shall enrol in accordance with the enrolment instructions for the particular program of study and within the prescribed enrolment period.
• In addition, students will be enrolled with Bristol University for the duration of the taught element, in line with University of Bristol regulations.

Methods of Study

• A student may only study for the degree of PhD (BBSRC DTP) by Method D: as a full-time (or part-time) student, by pursuing teaching/research at the University and/or teaching/research within an approved program of research offered collaboratively by the University and another University/approved partner within the Doctoral Training Programme.

Candidature Period

• A student must pursue and complete a program of teaching at Master's Level (The Master's element) and supervised study, including research and generic skills' development as either a full-time or a part-time student.
• The full degree program shall be completed within the following periods from the date of the initial registration:

  • Mode of study

    Full-time | Minimum: 4 years
    Maximum: 5 years
    Part-time | Minimum: 8 years
    Maximum: 9 years

Program Structure

• The degree of PhD (BBSRC DTP) shall comprise a taught element (Year 1 full-time, Years 1 and 2 part-time) and research element (Years 2-4 full-time, Years 3-8 part-time), within an integrated 4 (or 8) year program.
• The taught element will comprise a range of discrete educational components (modules) totalling 180 credits and including 60 credits of Directed Independent Learning, of the academic level and content relevant to the area of study and research, pursued in line with the relevant regulations of the University of Bristol.

Progression through the Program

• All students will be enrolled on the Integrated PhD program from the start of the program.
• All students will commence the taught element in Year 1.
• In order to progress to Year 2 (or 3 part-time) of the program, students are required to successfully complete the taught element.

Assessment and Examination

• Students shall be assessed by and under the relevant regulations of the University of Bristol for the taught element.
• The research element of the program shall consist of the production and submission of a substantial research thesis, and viva voce examination.
• The oral examination shall be conducted in accordance with the University's Guide to the Examination of Research Students.

Academic Regulations and Policies

• Students are expected to adhere to the University's academic regulations and policies, including those related to academic misconduct, fitness to practice, and complaints.
• Allegations of academic misconduct shall be considered in accordance with the Swansea University Academic Misconduct procedures and regulations.

Exit Qualifications

• A student who completes an Integrated PhD (BBSRC DTP) will receive one Doctor of Philosophy award from Swansea University.
• Students who do not satisfactorily complete the taught element and progress to the next year of study may be eligible for an Exit Qualification from the University of Bristol.

Conclusion

The BBSRC Doctoral Training Programme offers a comprehensive and integrated approach to doctoral research, combining a taught element with a substantial period of research. The program is designed to provide students with a thorough education in research methods and a significant opportunity for original research, leading to the award of a PhD from Swansea University.