TUTORS AND SUPERVISORS

choosing the supervisor

• Once you have an idea of the subject areas we offer on the DSE programme the next step is to identify potential supervisors whose research interests best correspond with your intended research topic. The DSE programme is not based on formal lectures and credits which makes the role of the PhD supervisor critical to a successful PhD process.
   
• Generally allocation is a matter for individual negotiation between you and the supervisor(s). You are free to choose and in the first year of the DSE programme you are allowed to work with two potential supervisors. It is recommended that you take the opportunity to sample different ones at the beginning of a Phd.
   
• The role of the supervisor is to:
  assist and support you throughout your academic studies,
  advise you in designing and undertaking your research project,
  encourage you to work,
  guide your work.
   
• The supervisor is expected to maintain a professional and mutually respectful supervisory relationship with you during the PhD project, contact you regularly to discuss your research, provide advice on the planning and execution of your research, arrange for you to present your work to staff and/or group seminars, and provide you with feedback on all aspects. 
   
• Select a supervisor whom you expect to contact you regularly and who will maintain a professional and supportive supervisory relationship. It is important that you have a real passion for your work so choose a supervisor you believe in and whose work you find exciting.
    
• Make your choice with great care, as the PhD candidate-supervisor relationship may have a major effect on your experience. Your supervisor will be your mentor, friend, adviser and also a voice of reason. It is crucial to have someone to encourage you to work harder and not to give up when your research is not successful, and someone who will steer you towards successfully submitting your thesis.