Friday 26-11-2021 - 11:25

 

We know Postgraduate Research Degrees are meant to be a challenge, but this past year has made them more difficult than ever.

Recent studies by Advance HE* have found that PGR experience is at an 11-year low. Researchers have highlighted the issues they have faced surrounding wellbeing, post-PhD careers and employability, and the expectations of on-campus learning versus what was accessible during lockdowns and restrictions.

We asked our PGRs how their experiences of university had been so far, and what support they would like to see from us at The Union.

 

What did PGRs tell us:

 

Researchers reported that they have struggled this year with access to appropriate space, for practical usage such as studios and access to workshops, and in access to a permanent research or office spaces.

While many researchers report the fantastic supervision they receive from their supervisors, some PGRs are struggling with their academic support and the communications they receive from the University.

PGRs also raised the issue of short term and log term costs of undertaking a Postgraduate Research degree. Fees remain high, especially for International researchers, and there are additional costs, such as printing and travel, throughout their degrees that can cause unexpected financial issues.

 

How we can help:

 

Postgraduate Research can be a long and expensive commitment, especially for international PGRs. Our Advice Centre is here to help you with any financial, housing, and academic issues you may face while here at University. They’re a free, confidential, and independent service with a wealth of knowledge in many different areas. Get in touch via s.u.advice@mmu.ac.uk, call on 0161 247 6533, or visit in-person in The Union building.

If you’re struggling with your academic representation, making positive change, or being heard within your faculty we’re here to help. Your Faculty Organisers are a dedicated member of staff at The Union who are here to ensure experience and representation throughout the University is at a high standard with close ties to each faculty. We can also help you get in touch with your faculty’s PGR Reps to share your feedback. PGR Reps are here to make positive change within their faculties based on your feedback.

We also have dedicated events for you as postgraduates and researchers, including panels, Q&As and conferences. We recently held our first Postgraduate Community Forum where Pro Vice Chancellors spoke with our President about issues facing PGRs and PGT students. Our PGR Reps are also invited to a range networking opportunities, workshops, and socials to support them in their role and to thank them for all their hard work. If you are interested in becoming a PGR Rep please let us know!

Our Union building is a space for you to use, whether you need a study space to work on your research, meeting rooms, or a place to wind-down during busy days. We are here to help you make the most of your PGR experience so please let us know if there is any support you would like to see from The Union in the future.

 

*The Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) 2021 (Advance HE).