9. Examination of a PGR programme by practice

This means that:

• the internal and external examiner for a PGR programme by practice candidate should ideally have experience of examining practice-focused programmes. Where this is not possible, departments might wish to ask SCA to appoint an independent chair with experience of the PGR programme by practice requirements
• the requirements of the final examination for a PGR programme by practice must be clearly communicated to the examiners, particular the parameters of any alternative assessment format and, if applicable, the weighting of the thesis relative to the alternative assessment format
• the examiners should be reminded that:
  
  • the work submitted for a PGR programme by practice must meet all the expectations set out in ‘the Nature of  the Thesis’ section of the Policy on Research Degrees
  • they may wish to pay particular attention to determining how successfully the practice element is integrated with the other elements.

Guidelines information

PGRs who started their programme after 16 September 2024 should adhere to these guidelines.

PGRs who started their programme before 16 September 2024 should adhere to these guidelines as much as possible but will not be penalised for following previously available guidance from their department.

Corrections

When the examination outcome is approval with corrections, the examiners may require amendments to be made to the thesis and/or to the alternative assessment format. Ideally amendments should be made in writing (by amending a written element of the submission and/or the addition of a written addendum to accompany a non-written element). Where the examiners’ concerns cannot be addressed by amendment in writing, they should consider whether it feasible for the PGR to revise the original version or whether an alternative approach is needed (eg an additional recital/performance). 

Any queries about the feasibility of correction requirements should be directed to PGR Administration (PGRA), for consideration by Standing Committee on Assessment (SCA) where required.

Revise and resubmit

If the examination outcome is to revise and resubmit, the examiners may require significant re-working of any or all of the work submitted for examination.