The minimum period for the course of study is not less than two academic years for full-time students, and three years for part-time students for the PhD. Although the programme is designed to take three years, most students take around four years to complete the doctorate.

MPhil/PhD students in Information Systems normally follow a structured programme. The goal of the programme is to facilitate the transition from MSc work to active research by incorporating an element of directed course work in the first year has four elements, tow courses and two seminars. The courses are normally "Interpretations of Information" and one other course suited to the student's research interests to be agreed individually with the department. The seminars are one in "Research in Information Systems" and one in which research material is presented and discussed. In order to proceed to research in subsequent years students must pass examinations in their courses and show progress with their research. Students may also follow courses from the MSc programme.

Supervision

You will be assigned a supervisor when you enter the programme. In addition, when you are preparing your materials for consideration for upgrading from MPhil to PhD student status, you will be assigned two "assessors" who will read that material and judge your progress. Normally one of those two will then continue to act as your "second supervisor" who will be available to you for informed consultations and who is prepared to take over supervision if, for example, your supervisor takes a sabbatical leave. Some students make formal arrangements for dual supervision, either with two members of the Department of Information Systems or with someone from another department.