Pass (62%) at MSc, chances for PhD at the same university with funding secured?

Hello everyone,

I am currently writing my MSc dissertation at one of the top universities in the UK and particularly in my field, however due to some mental health and external factors, I will only be able to get a high "Pass" in my degree, I am planning to apply for PhD at the same university a year after finishing my MSc. I've already spoken to the head of postgraduate admissions in my School. He said that, given I've a supervisor willing to support my application, secured funding, and a high grade for my MSc dissertation, I should be fine, considering the only strict requirement they have is a 2:1 from relevant BSc (which I already have). However, I am still worried.

I have some research experience through internships and volunteering, including fieldwork and conference papers (a few in the UK, but mostly international). I am wondering if there is anything else I can do to increase my chances for PhD in the next 5-6 months, not just in this university, but in general. Any advice will be appreciated.

P.S My PhD idea uses some of the same methods I am using in my MSc dissertation and is heavily based on the module I've received 75% (merit) on. My overall grade is dragged down by one module that I've failed and re-assessment will be capped, which isn't related to my proposed topic.

Reply 1

artful_lounger

Universities Forum Helper

Are you saying you already have external funding in place for the PhD? I suspect in that case given you also have a supervisor lined up, admission to the PhD programme will just be a pro-forma exercise.

Reply 2

AnnKara

Original post

by artful_lounger

Yes, I got the funding to cover the living costs and potentially fieldwork, if my supervisor decides that it would be helpful, but I will be covering tuition fees out of my own bank account. And thank you for the reassurance, I am planning to try publish my MSc dissertation and present it in a few conferences next year, as well as, hopefully, finding a relevant job.

Reply 3

artful_lounger

Universities Forum Helper

Original post

by AnnKara

Ah so at least part-self funded, that may be different. Still in general securing funding I gather is the harder part of a PhD application rather than being admitted to the degree itself...?