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The selection process for a PhD by research

Entry qualifications

The process of assessing candidates for acceptance is based on previous qualifications (a Masters degree or equivalent - a good clinical training could be a suitable alternative) and the approval of the research proposal. Candidates would also be expected to have some understanding of psychoanalysis and a high standard of written English.

The selection process for a PhD by research

If you are interested in pursuing the possibility of a PhD by research, here are some details of what we take into account in the selection process.

  1. The main criterion is that we need a good research proposal from you. Guidelines for writing a proposal can be found at www.essex.ac.uk/centres/psycho/prospective/pg/phd_proposals.aspx.

    It is best to draft a proposal and let us see it so that we can advise if necessary on how to develop it
  2. You might want to make initial contact in one of three ways:
    1. to the CPS office (cpsasst@essex.ac.uk);
    2. to a supervisor of your choice in the Centre.; or
    3. to the Director of Graduate Studies (Research Students), Dr. Matt ffytche.
  3. At that stage you should send in a CV, giving a good indication of your previous academic achievements, their relevance to your research interest, and some indication of your psychoanalytic knowledge. We would also like to know if you intend to study full time, part time or by distance learning.
  4. Not everyone starts with a high level of psychoanalytic knowledge and this is not a bar; you should however indicate why a psychoanalytic doctorate is most appropriate, and you will need to discuss with the DGS (and a maybe a potential supervisor) how you might develop sufficient psychoanalytic knowledge before starting the degree.
  5. You will work most closely with your academic supervisor and you need to give some thought to who would be most appropriate. The academic staff on our staff list are those who may supervise doctoral students; so have a look at their details. Of course not all staff will have vacancies at the time you are applying.
  6. Once a supervisor has been selected by you and the DGS then they are likely to be the person who gives advice on your proposal.
  7. The finalised proposal will be seen by your potential supervisor and one other member of the academic staff.
  8. You may be asked for a sample of your academic writing – for example a dissertation written for a Masters degree.
  9. Next, and finally, comes the formal application process. You will need to complete the application form, provide transcripts of previous degree certificates, two references, and the results of an English Language test (IELTS or iBT) if you are not a native English speaker.

N.B. Students for Doctoral Research are initially registered for an MPhil, but are upgraded to PhD status, normally in the second year, as long as their work is of a sufficient standard to continue at Doctoral level.

We hope this is clear and helpful, but please ask in our office, by email, or telephone (cpsasst@essex.ac.uk; +44 (0)1206 87 4554) any questions you do still have.