External Research Degree Study Scheme
Introduction
1. The University of Westminster recognises that an uninterrupted period of three years’ study abroad is not the most appropriate study pattern for every student and particularly for:
- researchers in overseas collaborating institutions
- students whose projects are most appropriately undertaken within their home country or region
- students who are unable for cultural, work or family reasons to live abroad for three years.
2.The External Research Degree Study (ERDS) Scheme is intended to allow students to register for University research degree awards for which part or the majority of their study takes place overseas. Please note that the ERDS Scheme is not offered in some areas of research.
Admission
3. All candidates wishing to be considered for entry under this scheme will be required to demonstrate that they:
- meet the same entry requirements as internal students
- are able to undertake a suitable research project in their home country
- have the assurance of their home institution that for the whole duration of the period of study all necessary resources, facilities and support will be available
- have ready access to all facilities required for the proposed programme of research
- have access to and are supported by appropriate local institutions
- have the means of rapid communication with their supervisors for example by telephone, fax and e-mail.
4. Candidates under this scheme will not normally be permitted to register for PhD Direct.
Enrolment, Study Pattern and Fees
5.Before enrolment for the next academic year, each candidate/continuing student on this scheme shall:
a) agree in conjunction with his or her proposed Director of Studies in consultation with the Senior Research Officer in the Academic Services Department a plan of work for the forthcoming year. This should indicate clearly which periods are to be spent in the country of domicile and which at the University of Westminster. The plan of work should be signed by the Director of Studies and the student and forwarded to the Senior Research Officer in the Academic Services Department for calculation of fees and enrolment arrangements
b) undertake responsibility for the advance payment of travel, accommodation and subsistence expenses for supervisory visits to the country of domicile
The proposed pattern of study shall be approved by the appropriate School Research Director before submission to the Academic Services Department.
6. Study will normally conform to the following pattern:
- At least one period each year in residence at the University of Westminster, normally averaging (across the entire registration period) approximately two months per year (individual Schools may increase this).
- At least one visit each year by supervisor to student in his/her environment of study, of appropriate duration to permit detailed and extensive discussion of progress to date and work planned and sight of study environment and facilities.
- The oral examination will normally take place at the University of Westminster.
