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PhD Lifecycle

The complete PhD journey at UCD

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Interested in PhD studies?

A PhD degree involves a student conduction original research in a specific field under the supervision of a UCD faculty member, culminating in a thesis which is the basis of the examination for the award.

Information on the PhD can be found here: 

To apply for a position of a PhD student you must first approach a faculty member to be your Principal Supervisor. Once you have the agreement of an academic member of staff to support your PhD application as supervisor, the School will be able to advise you on the required research application process.

Important tip: Ensure you review and meet the minimum English language requirements

Make a start

The PhD degree is completed in two stages. Stage 1 is a period in which you define your research plan, develop your research skills and initiate original research work for your doctorate. 

Up and running

In order to progress from Stage 1 to Stage 2, you must have undergone a Stage Transfer Assessment (STA). The STA is a formal assessment/examination step and is mandatory in order to proceed from Stage 1 to Stage 2 of your PhD. The STA must be completed within 5 trimesters for a full-time student or 7 trimesters for a part-time student.

  • Ensure an RSP meeting is held at least two months prior to your Stage Transfer Assessment (STA)

Important tip: Refer to the Research Student Handbook and work with your Supervisor on STA preparation.

 

Progressing in your research degree

Stage 2 is primarily dedicated to continuing your original doctoral research but will also include some advanced education and training.

 

Degree Award

  • If the Examination Committee recommendation is to approve the PhD award, UCD Academic Council Committee on Examinations will consider the recommendation at their next scheduled meeting
  • If the degree is awarded, degrees are conferred at the next available UCD Conferring Ceremony
  • In line with the Open Access policy, your thesis will be published in the UCD Research Repository
Celebrate your achievement!
 
Student supports and services

View all student supports and services available to UCD graduate research students
UCD Student Advisory Service

Find information on student advisory service and UCD's dedicated student adviser for graduate research students
Career Progression

Find information and resources on career planning and UCD's dedicated career & skills adviser for graduate research students
Managing Graduate Study with a Disability

Guidance for students

UCD Graduate Studies

University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
T: +353 1 716 7777