Supervisors play a fundamental role in supporting research students throughout their programme. The University provides resources to help you support your students and be confident in your role as a supervisor.
Sign up to the Graduate Research School Internal Comms Google Group for the monthly newsletter and key updates for staff working with research students:
Graduate Research School Internal Comms Group
New: A Guide to Online Supervision
The Being an Effective Supervisor Tutorial (BEST) provides supervisors with information to support research students through the PhD process, from registration to award. It includes a range of resources and links, some of which may also be useful in supporting masters students.
BEST is divided into sections covering:
- The PhD process: regulations, policy and progression
- Approaches to supervision and building effective relationships
- Supporting welfare (student and supervisor)
- Information, digital and writing skills
- Professional development and careers
- Completing the research degree
Book your place on a PGR supervisor briefing
If you have any questions, contact rett@york.ac.uk.
Training for new supervisors is available as part of the Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP). Teaching staff with less than three years experience are expected to complete the PGCAP. Other staff may apply with consent from their department.
If you do not intend to complete a PGCAP, Teaching and Supporting Learning in Higher Education (TSLHE) is a 20-credit Masters-level module designed for research staff who have taken on a teaching role. The course is delivered over a 12-month period starting each September.
You are your student's first point of contact for queries about support and progression. You should be familiar with the associated processes and expected outcomes.
Visit the staff academic progress pages for information about:
Research Student Administration can answer any queries you may have.
As a supervisor you are responsible for monitoring your student's academic and professional progress.
SkillsForge
Log in to SkillsForge to review your supervisee's supervision and training records. Quick start guides for students and supervisors are available below.
Professional Development Plan
Research students - just like undergraduates - need to prepare for their future careers. Students are required to create a Professional Development Plan (PDP) to help develop and keep track of their skills and abilities. You should discuss PDPs at supervisory meetings and as part of the Progression process.
Appointing external examiners
SkillsForge Quick Start Guides
TAP guidance:
Formal Reviews of Progress:
Research integrity
The University expects all research undertaken in its name and on its premises using its facilities to be carried out to the highest standards of conduct. Ensure your supervisee is aware of:
Policy and Regulations
The Policy on Research Degrees details the rules and regulations surrounding supervision of research students: