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Progression

Progression is a formal process that permits a student to continue to the next stage or period of their research studies programme.


The normal minimum progression points for a full-time student occur between 6 to 9 months after registration on the research studies programme.  For a part-time student the normal progression points occur between 12 to 18 months after registration on the research studies programme.

The 6 to 9 month progression point (12 to 18 months for part time students) is undertaken in accordance with the approved requirements for the research studies programme and may include the submission of written work and an oral examination.  The requirements and procedures for progression are determined by Schools. You should refer to your School’s Handbook for information about the progression process and requirements. Please note that the examiners appointed to the progression panel cannot examine the candidate’s final thesis.

Possible outcomes of a first progression panel 

Progress – the student may progress to the next stage of the research studies programme

Referred – the student must undertake further specified work and be reconsidered for progression again within 3 months.

At the end of the referral period, the progression panel must recommend one of the following outcomes:

Progress – the student may progress to the next stage of the research studies programme

Fail to progress – the student may transfer registration to MPhil or other appropriate programme

Fail to progress – the student’s registration is to be terminated. A student may appeal against the termination of registration using the College Appeal Regulations which can be found here:  https://www.qmul.ac.uk/governance-and-legal-services/student-appeals/appeals/ 

If you are unsure about the above, you can contact the Research Degrees Office at researchdegrees@qmul.ac.uk. for further information and guidance. 

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