4. Selection, admission and induction of PGRs
See also:
4.1 The selection and admission of PGRs to PGR programmes must be undertaken in accordance with the University’s Admissions Policy and the Code of Practice on the Recruitment, Selection and Admission of PGRs which are reviewed and updated annually by MRAO in consultation with YGRS. The Admissions Policy and Code of Practice are designed to ensure that: (i) the decision-making process is clear, consistent, fair, and demonstrates equality of opportunity; and (ii) that only appropriately qualified and prepared applicants, for whom a suitable research environment (see above) can be provided, are admitted to PGR programmes.
Induction and handbook
4.2 The main PGR entry point is aligned with the start of the first semester. Other start times (on the first of the month) may be approved by YGRS.
4.3 Departments are strongly encouraged to limit the number of entry points to PGR programmes to facilitate the participation of new PGRs in University, student union and departmental induction and training events, and to ensure that PGRs feel part of a cohort.
4.4 The University, together with the students’ union, provides induction events for PGRs, at the start of the first and second semester. PGRs are expected to attend the University induction relevant to their start date. See section 11 for training requirements that form part of the University's induction process.
4.5 Departments should provide a comprehensive induction programme for all new PGRs (including those who do not commence their studies at the start of the academic year, are part-time or working at a distance) that dovetails with the central provision. Induction content should be planned with reference to the Induction Checklist issued by YGRS, and should include departmental-specific information on supervisory arrangements, research and skills training, networking opportunities, facilities, good research conduct, and health and safety, including (where appropriate) health and safety while undertaking work away from the University (e.g. fieldwork and research visits). ‘Induction’ requirements should be considered as a whole, not simply as an activity for the first few weeks of the PGR’s programme.
4.6 Departments should provide new PGRs with an appropriate handbook for reference. This handbook should be created using the in order to ensure consistency and accuracy of messaging to all new PGRs.