4. Selection, admission and induction of PGRs

4.1 The selection and admission of PGRs to PGR programmes will be undertaken in accordance with the University’s Admissions Policy and the Code of Practice on the Recruitment, Selection and Admission of PGRs which are reviewed and updated annually by MRAO in consultation with YGRS. The Admissions Policy and Code of Practice are designed to ensure that: (i) the decision-making process is clear, consistent, fair, and demonstrates equality of opportunity; and (ii) that only appropriately qualified and prepared applicants, for whom a suitable research environment (see above) can be provided, are admitted to PGR programmes.

Induction and handbook

4.2 The main PGR entry point is aligned with the start of the first semester. Other start times (on the first of the month) may be approved by PPPC.

4.3 Departments are strongly encouraged to limit the number of entry points to PGR programmes to facilitate the participation of new PGRs in University, student union and departmental induction and training events, and to ensure that PGRs feel part of a cohort.

4.4 The University, together with the students’ union, provides induction events for PGRs, at the start of the first and second semester. PGRs are expected to attend the University induction relevant to their start date. See section 11 for training requirements that form part of the University's induction process.

4.5 Departments should provide a comprehensive induction programme for all new PGRs (including those who do not commence their studies at the start of the academic year, are part-time or working at a distance) that dovetails with the central provision. Induction content should be planned with reference to the Induction Checklist issued by YGRS, and should include departmental-specific information on supervisory arrangements, research and skills training, networking opportunities, facilities, good research conduct, and health and safety, including (where appropriate) health and safety while undertaking work away from the University (eg fieldwork and research visits). ‘Induction’ requirements should be considered as a whole, not simply as an activity for the first few weeks of the PGR’s programme.

4.6 Departments should provide new PGRs with an appropriate handbook for reference. This handbook should be created using the in order to ensure consistency and accuracy of messaging to all new PGRs.

Policy sections

1. Introduction

2. The criteria for the award of PGR degrees

3. The research environment

4. Selection, admission and induction of PGRs

5. Supervision

6. Responsibilities of PGRs and supervisors

7. Periods of enrolment, changes to PGRs' status and personal circumstances (including illness), working hours and holidays

8. Progress and review arrangements

9. Development of research and other skills

10. Evaluation of PGR programmes

11. Responsible research and academic integrity

12. Assessment

13. Dissemination of research results, intellectual property rights and responsibilities

14. PGR complaints and appeals

15. Research away from York (excluding PGRs on distance learning PGR programmes)

16. Arrangements for non-York PGRs

Appendices

Appendix 1: Policy on the recording of second progress review meetings and oral examinations for research degrees

Appendix 2: Policy on PhD/EngD and MPhil PGR progression

Appendix 3: PGR Academic Misconduct policy

Appendix 4: Paid parental leave policy

Appendix 5: Policy framework for distance learning PGR programmes

Appendix 6: Policy framework for collaborative off-site and collaborative split-site PGR programmes

Appendix 7: Policy framework for integrated PhD programmes

Appendix 8: Policy and process for the appointment of examiners for research degrees

Appendix 9: Guidance for Examiners on Degree Outcomes

Appendix 10: Policy on Transparency of Authorship in PGR Programmes, including generative AI, proofreading and translation

Appendix 11: Policy on Granting PGR Programme Extensions in Exceptional Circumstances