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Key PGR Publications and Regulations

As a postgraduate research student there are various documents you will need to refer to during your studies.

Code of practice for research degrees

Code of Practice for PGR students  (PDR: 444.4 kB) sets out the University’s standards for its research programmes. Familiarise yourself with this document at the start of your degree.

Research handbook

The research handbook provides advice and guidance for PGR students and research supervisors and highlights key activities. You’re encouraged to read this document thoroughly as it provides a useful first point of reference for queries during your studies

  • Welcome: Welcome by PVC and colleagues (PDF: 149.6 kB)‌
  • Part One‌: Introduction, Sources of Advice and Assistance (PDF: 844.8 kB)
  • Part Two: Code of Practice (PDF: 441.8 kB)
  • Part Three‌: Academic Matters (PDF: 1.2 MB)
  • Part Four: Regulations, Policies and Procedures (PDF: 225.3 kB)
  • PGR Student Handbook 2024 25 (PDF: 2.5MB): handbook in full containing all of the sections above.

The Handbook is also available as an online resource that you can read in the same way as a book here.

The contributors hope that all readers find the Handbook helpful. Should you wish to feedback on the University Section of the Handbook, please contact Student Progress.

University regulations

The University Regulations for all degrees are updated annually. These provide important information covering all stages of a degree including admission, progression, supervision, submission and examination arrangements. 

Specific Regulations for Doctor of Philosophy by Prior Publication (in association with FERA) are available here.  Any queries should be directed to the HaSS and SAgE Graduate School at gradschool@ncl.ac.uk

Student charter

The Student Charter is a summary of commitments agreed by the University community and signed off by the Vice-Chancellor and the President of the Students’ Union.

Important sections include the 'Statements of Student Academic Rights and Responsibilities' and 'Behavioural Expectations', along with information on relevant key policies and procedures. You should familiarise yourself with this document at the start of your studies.

University Handbook for Examiners of Research Degrees by Theses

The Handbook for Examiners of Research Degrees by Theses  (PDF: 499.3 kB) provides staff with guidance on key stages of the examination process including the procedures for nominating, selecting and appointing examiners, and good practice guidelines for the conduct of examinations.

Academic queries and appeals procedure

The Academic Query and Appeals Procedure provides details of how to submit an appeal if you’re unhappy with the outcome of an annual progression review or final examination

Student complaints and resolution procedure

The Student Complaints and Resolution Procedure sets out the University’s formal complaints procedure for submitting a complaint about a school, service or member of staff.

Forms and policies

View our full list of documents, policies and forms.