Research Degrees (MPhil and PhD)

The Department offers research programmes leading to the award of the MPhil and PhD degrees in Botany, Zoology, Experimental Biology, Environmental Biology or Oceanography. Registration for the research degrees may be on a part-time or full-time basis.

An MPhil degree normally takes two to three years of intensive research on a full-time basis, while a PhD degree usually takes three to four years. For the award of the degree, the student submits a thesis and defends this in an oral (viva) examination. Normally research leading to a Ph.D would demonstrate a level of originality beyond that of an M.Phil and the research would incorporate an experimental component.

Departmental Courses
Students are also expected to read prescribed courses viz BL60C Research Methodology, Project Management and Technical Report Writing (4 credits) and BL60D Literature Review (4 credits). The intention of these courses is to provide students with research techniques and skills that will not only help them to complete their current research topic, but strengthen their practical application skills for life after university.

Supervision
Each student receives guidance from an Advisory Committee that consists of a Supervisor, who is an expert in the area of research to be undertaken, and at least two other persons with related expertise.

Presentations
Students are required to present at least two seminars on their work. Also, there is a biennial conference held by the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences and students are encouraged to submit posters and/or oral presentations on their work.

Choosing a Research Topic

If you decide to pursue a research degree, it is important that the thesis topic chosen is of genuine and sustainable interest. This overview of current research being undertaken by members of staff and graduate students should prove helpful. Candidates may also contact possible supervisors to discuss proposed research projects.