University of Sunderland

Is it possible to register on a 'distance learning' research degree programme?

The University has, for a number of years, registered candidates for the degrees of MPhil and PhD by distance learning. A distance learning programme is one where the candidate concerned is not based at the University, and is undertaking his/her research from a distant (normally overseas) base, with a supervision team comprising supervisors from the University.

Mode of Study
Candidates may study on a full-time or a part-time basis.

Tuition Fees
The calculation of fees for part time and full time research programmes leading to the awards of MPhil or PhD degree by distance study is based on a set minimum fee of £3,732.00 (2011/12 academic year).  This applies to EU and Overseas based distance candidates.

However, Deans of Faculty may decide that additional costs are necessary due to the particular nature of each programme.  Such costs may include funding of travel for the University supervisor to visit the candidate in his/her own country, costs incurred whilst the student visits the University or administrative costs.  Additional costs will be built into the tuition fee and you will be informed of the total fee as quickly as possible.

Communication with and visits to the University
The candidate must be in regular and frequent contact with the supervisors; particularly the Director of Studies. This will entail regular and frequent communication by telephone, electronic mail and SKYPE. The candidate will be expected to visit the University at least twice yearly to meet with the supervisors and take part in the Research Student Development Programme and the Annual Monitoring Review meeting.  The objective of the Annual Monitoring review meeting is to monitor and ensure that the candidates progress on the research degree programme is satisfactory. The meetings are held every 12 months until submission of the thesis. When the candidate visits the University he/she must be prepared, and able to meet the costs of the visit. Also the final examination will normally take place at the University of Sunderland .

Qualifications
Distance candidates must satisfy the same criteria as regards qualifications as any other research degree candidate. That is, they should normally possess at least an upper second class honours degree from a UK University or its equivalent.  Graduate Research Support staff will verify the equivalence of qualifications.

If the candidate does not satisfy the normal criteria then two acceptable academic references must be obtained. At least one of the referees should be familiar with the standards required of a UK research degree.  The candidate should provide a full curriculum vitae and any other supporting evidence to support the application with the application form. The Chair of the University Research Committee will consider the relevant documentation and decide on the candidate's suitability for admission.