Applying for a PhD with a failed module at Undergraduate

Hello there

I would like some opinions on this matter. My first year undergraduate marks were poor and I failed a module with a mark of 36. Fortunately I was allowed to proceed to second year with this fail.

Overall I achieved a 2:1 (64) at undergrad and then again at MSc I got a commendation.

Since graduating I have gained significant work experience both in the UK and overseas.

My main concern is that I have my hopes set on a PhD at a very reputable university and I am sure the selection process will be extremely competitive.

How much of a black mark will this module make on my application?

I am very concerned that it may make me ineligible :/

Original post by tekno

..............

It was years ago, at quite another academic level that you have clearly surpassed. They will be looking at your Masters grades, your relevant experience and your research proposal.

Reply 2

tekno

OP

11

Bump

Any more opinions?

Reply 3

zombiejon

9

Original post by tekno

Bump

Any more opinions?

Same as threeportdrift. You have another degree and work experience already. It might crop up during the admissions process, but most people will say that it's so long ago that it's no longer applicable.

Reply 4

post-grad-u-ate

11

Original post by tekno

Bump

Any more opinions?

This..

Original post by threeportdrift

It was years ago, at quite another academic level that you have clearly surpassed. They will be looking at your Masters grades, your relevant experience and your research proposal.

Reply 5

tekno

OP

11

Im applying to Cambridge so Im fairly sure it wont look good, Im just not sure whether it would instantly disqualify me...

Original post by tekno

Im applying to Cambridge so Im fairly sure it wont look good, Im just not sure whether it would instantly disqualify me...

Stop just making worries up. My advice is based on my Cambridge experience. I did a PhD there with an irrelevant, 15 year old undergrad degree, (2.2) and a recent, relevant Masters (Pass). Nothing instantly disqualifies you, at Cambridge in particular, they have a very holistic approach to admissions.

Reply 7

stevey396

3

What unis did you do your undergrad and Masters at?

Reply 8

tekno

OP

11

Queens University Belfast. Ive also gained 3 years professional experience although in a different but not unrelated field

Reply 9

NPI

3

I am starting a PhD at Cambridge this October. It won't make you ineligible. I had some 'bumps' during my undergrad degree many moons ago. My advice would be not to create things to worry about - you'll have enough to stress you out during the application process anyway! I would just focus on making your application as strong and well thought out as possible.

If it helps, I recently had a follow-up meeting with my supervisor-to-be, who identified the following reasons he pushed for my offer (at not point in the process did he so much as mention my UG degree):
- My (relevant) work experience and knowledge of the field and related areas.
- My recent Master's (distinction).
- A good, interesting proposal, which complements the faculty's research interests quite well.
- Strong references.
- The stimulating discussions we had during my interview.
- An overall impression.

So, as threeportdrift said, a holistic approach. That said, if you're really concerned, then email the faculty you'd be applying to and ask - they'll be happy to help.

Reply 10

tekno

OP

11

Original post by NPI

I am starting a PhD at Cambridge this October. It won't make you ineligible. I had some 'bumps' during my undergrad degree many moons ago. My advice would be not to create things to worry about - you'll have enough to stress you out during the application process anyway! I would just focus on making your application as strong and well thought out as possible.

If it helps, I recently had a follow-up meeting with my supervisor-to-be, who identified the following reasons he pushed for my offer (at not point in the process did he so much as mention my UG degree):
- My (relevant) work experience and knowledge of the field and related areas.
- My recent Master's (distinction).
- A good, interesting proposal, which complements the faculty's research interests quite well.
- Strong references.
- The stimulating discussions we had during my interview.
- An overall impression.

So, as threeportdrift said, a holistic approach. That said, if you're really concerned, then email the faculty you'd be applying to and ask - they'll be happy to help.

Thanks NPI this was very helpful. Do you mind me asking what subject area your research is in.

Also do you have any advice about the application process? I am overseas and probably will be until next July.

Thanks again*

Reply 11

Blahblah3333

I think a lot of first year undergrads have a similar record (as I do too!) so its nothing unusual. Lots of people get a little overwhelmed by moving away from home and socialising too much their first year. As you're record already shows that it was just a bit of a wobble, in your first year, I wouldn't worry. You've got a good masters and life experience. Be confident in your abilities.

Applying for a PhD with a failed module at Undergraduate

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