Guidance and support for postgraduate research students
As a postgraduate research student, you have access to a range of support throughout your time with us, from the moment you arrive to the submission of your thesis.
Your first week
Starting a doctoral degree can be a different experience from your previous study. Consequently, we have put in place a structured induction programme to help smooth the transition into doctoral level research and prepare you well for the journey ahead.
Your supervisor
Find out more about the role of your supervisor and your responsibilities, in order to foster a good working relationship.
Research Degrees Office
Research Degrees Programme Management provides services to postgraduate research students, ensuring you receive consistent and accurate advice on all of the stages of your course from registration to award.
Researcher Development Programme
The Researcher Development Programme supports you in developing your transferable skills, helping you to be more effective researchers now and more employable in the future. We provide training and development opportunities including a comprehensive programme of face-to-face training workshops, online resources, and supporting information. In addition, we offer flexible one-to-one support in all areas that we cover.
Making changes to your registration status
The following requests can be made through Surrey Self-Service.
Log in to Surrey Self-Service, from the menu options, select the 'plus' symbol to expand the hidden menu options, and select 'Research programme details' and beneath the Summary details, select the 'Requests' tab:
- Request for change of mode of attendance
- Request for change of supervisor
- Request for transfer to completing status
- Request for extension of registration
- Request to change programme
- Notification of permanent withdrawal
- Request for temporary withdrawal and sick pay
- Exam entry form for doctoral degrees and MPhil.
Find the right support for you
During the research journey, there will inevitably be times when something unexpected happens that gets in the way of you making progress with your PhD.
This might be a difficulty relating to the research, such as equipment breaking down or problems recruiting research participants, or it might be a problem with the support and guidance you receive from your supervisor. It is always better to address problems early on and the following people within your faculty can help you.
As a first step you should discuss your concerns informally with your supervisor. Remember that you can seek support and help in doing this from other members of the supervisory team.
If this does not bring about the desired improvements, as a next step, you should arrange to meet with the PGR Director for your school, department or research centre to discuss the problem and how to address it.
If the problem persists, you should bring it to the attention of the Associated Dean (Doctoral College) who will talk you through the options available to you.