Expert interdisciplinary supervision and training are provided by specialist supervisors, a biannual advisory panel, the Reading Researcher Development Programme and, by application, the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) SCENARIO Doctoral Training Partnerships.
The Department can also provide support if you have additional learning needs. Find out more by emailing sages-pg-admissions@reading.ac.uk or calling +44 (0) 118 378 8132.
Academic support from the Department
Support from the Doctoral and Researcher College
The Doctoral and Researcher College is the University of Reading's hub for doctoral students, based in a dedicated building on Whiteknights Campus. It provides advice, training, study facilities and professional development for all doctoral students at the University.
The Doctoral and Researcher College is dedicated to ensuring you get the most out of your PhD and fulfil your potential as a researcher. It runs a number of programmes to help you develop academically and professionally, which are all included as part of your PhD at no extra cost.
Reading Researcher Development Programme
This training programme is designed to help you successfully complete your PhD and improve your personal effectiveness.
It includes sessions on writing skills, managing data, interviews and how to get your work published.
Preparing to Teach
Preparing to Teach equips you with the teaching skills you'll need if you are considering a career as an academic.
You will develop knowledge on effective teaching and learning, how to assess students' work and how to provide feedback.
Leadership programme
Designed in partnership with Henley Business School, this programme is designed specifically for you to develop your skills in leadership.
You'll enhance your understanding, experience and practice of leading and have the opportunity to explore your own capabilities.
English language support
If English is not your first language, our International Study and Language Institute (ISLI) can help you develop your academic English skills.
ISLI also offers doctoral thesis writing programmes in partnership with the Doctoral and Researcher College. These are available free of charge to international students.
Disability support
The University provides a number of support services for people who have accessibility or additional learning needs.
Wellbeing support
The University’s dedicated range of specialist support teams are here for you, whether you are on campus or studying remotely.
We also offer the Life Tools programme, a series of free talks designed by experts to help you take control of your personal and professional development.
