PHD advice- enquiring in advance

Leo2020_hope

Hi, does anyone know how competitive MMU's PHD history program is? especially in regards to gender and sexuality specialisation- I will be starting my MA hopefully this September and want to know if I stand a chance at furthering my studies. I am currently only set for a low 2:1 or a high 2:2 due to exceptional circumstances. However, I do a lot outside uni which might help boost any future applications

Reply 1

chaotic1328

Original post by Leo2020_hope

You need to know that although PhD places may or may not be competitive, the funding for a PhD is always competitive, especially in the arts, humanities and social sciences. In that regard, a low 2:1 or a high 2:2 puts you at a disadvantage. You can make up for that somewhat with a high distinction in your master's and an excellent proposal. It would still be very tough, but not impossible.

On the other hand, if you are willing to consider the self-funded route, then MMU will probably take you on if you achieve at least a merit in your master's, if they have the right expertise in your field. I'd very doubt that you would get many offers of a PhD place (without funding) with a 2:2 plus a pass in a master's, even from the newer universities (no offence to the post-92s, but their entry standards do tend to be lower than the more established universities, even for doctorates).

Reply 2

oswalds

I'd echo the previous poster in that it isn't normally the places that are difficult to come by, it's the funding. Things outside your degree can be really helpful in your application, especially showing your interest in the area you would be researching (such as getting involved in student run conferences, which might be something your university offers during your MA).

You may want to wait and apply once you have at least some of your MA marks under your belt - it's quite common for people to take at least one year out between MA and PhD (I took two) and apply with their MA grade in hand. This may be helpful for you as universities could be reluctant to offer a place with a 2:2 but, considering you have exceptional circumstances at the moment, your MA grade can demonstrate that you have the ability to complete a PhD. I first approached supervisors when I was waiting for my final MA mark, for example, and one supervisor only agreed to supervise me once I had my dissertation and overall mark confirmed.

I'd recommend, once you have an idea of what you would like to research, approaching people in the department who may be able to supervise your research and speaking to them about your situation. They will be well placed to offer advice on admissions in that particular department.