When you apply for a research degree , you need to submit a research proposal . This is usually a c . 2,000-word document which :

– explains why the research you want to do is important

– reviews the background literature

– outlines the sequence of studies you propose and the methods you ’ ll use

Your proposal must show a potential supervisor that you have a good platform for pursuing a programme of advanced independent research and development , leading you to make an original contribution to knowledge in your subject area .

When writing your research proposal , don ’ t just think about yourself and your goals . Think about your potential supervisor too . Not just because they ’ ll decide whether or not to take your application further based on your proposal . But also because they ’ ll play a key role in your research degree experience , providing trusted guidance and support . And your supervisor can start to help you before you apply .

186 Postgraduate at Portsmouth

HOW TO MAKE YOUR APPLICATION STAND OUT

Supervisors receive many applications each year . But there ’ s a limit to how many students they can supervise at any one time . This means your application must be a good fit to a particular supervisor . If it isn ’ t , even a great application can be rejected .

So , do your research into potential supervisors and make sure your research interests align with theirs .

Start by searching our database at port . ac . uk / find-a-phd-supervisor

Once you ’ ve identified a supervisor , email them with your CV and an outline of your idea before you apply . You can start a conversation and begin to develop a relationship .

If it ’ s clear that your research interests are a good match , your potential supervisor will be happy to help you develop your proposal before you submit it formally . They ’ ll then be more likely to deal with it quickly and take you on . Or , if your proposal is not for them , they might be able to recommend a colleague who would be a better fit and you can try them instead .

Find more guidance on writing a research proposal at port . ac . uk / postgraduate-research

SECURING YOUR STUDIES

COURSE INFORMATION

USEFUL INFORMATION