Possible Phd - questions first

vicky_kidder

Hi, I am just about to start a part-time phd in langauge acquisition. The funding is via the ERSC (http://www.esrcsocietytoday.ac.uk/ESRCInfoCentre/index.aspx) but I did not have to apply directly as I applied for a job that was funded by them with a part-tiem phd attached. Although the ERSC is not the only research council to apply to, there are 7, and links to all their home pages can be found here at prospects.ac.uk (http://www.prospects.ac.uk/cms/ShowPage/Home_page/Funding_my_further_study/Public_funding_bodies/p!ejclk). This is a really good website in general to look at if you are considering a phd.

THere are other things to consider first though. My uni has tol me that after the job is finished (2yrs, an phd is 4yrs) we will apply again to the ERSC. Also, there are numerous opportunities at the university to become demonstrators (hold seminars and practical/lab classes), essay/exam markers and exam invigilators which can all help add to your income.

Most banks will offer 0% or very low interest loans to graduates in postgrad study.

Also if you cant get any of these offers it may be worth making your degree part time: fees are halved and you can get a part/full time job to help your income.

joho

Thank you all again! Thanks vicky hadn't considered part-time! Will let you know if i go for it - before then I've a dissertation and about 18 other things to finish!

vicky_kidder

Lol, tell me about it joho, I'm in last few weeks of my degree also so I feel your pain!

Good luck!