Doctoral students: a review of recruitment, landscapes and support

Set against the University’s strategic ambition for the development of doctoral (post-graduate research) students, Research Consulting were commissioned to support a review of recruitment, admissions and supporting practices for doctoral students. This was delivered through a series of reports, building on desk research, our understanding of the environment for PGRs and through a series of interviews with internal stakeholders (academic, administrative and students).

The review considered:

• the landscape for PGR funding and collaborative partnerships;
• the perceived strengths and wider offer for PGR study at the University;
• structures and support for PGR students, including the role of doctoral schools and support funding;
• the recruitment and admissions landscape at the University; and
• the research environment for PGR students.

The work was delivered through desk research and interviews with just under 30 internal stakeholders, including academic supervisors, heads of school and academic PGR leads, doctoral students and administrative staff supporting different aspects of the PGR recruitment and admissions process.