Post-grad research at DMU recognised in nationwide survey

Research supervisors at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) are among the most highly regarded in the UK, according to the latest results of a national survey completed by post-graduate students.

This year’s Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) found that 90% of DMU students who responded said they were satisfied with their overall supervision, ranking the institution sixth nationally amongst those participating.

One student wrote: “The most positive aspect of my research degree programme has been my personal development as a researcher, learning to become adaptable to a changing landscape and appropriately manage challenging circumstances with support from a dedicated and knowledgeable supervisor.”

Another said: “I have a fantastic supervision team who are supportive, give clear and constructive feedback, and allow me the freedom to research and write in my own style.”

DMU also ranked sixth with respect to research skills, with 92% of post-grad researchers agreeing that their skills in applying appropriate research methodologies, tools and techniques have developed during their programme.

Professor David Mba, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research at DMU, said: “2020 has been an extraordinary year for many reasons and it has of course presented many challenges for post-graduate students who are in the midst of their research studies.

“To see such positive results of the PRES despite these challenges is incredibly promising and we are so pleased that our post-graduate research students are enjoying their experience at DMU.

“A special mention must be given to the research supervisors who offer their time and guidance to our post-graduate students – it is clear to see that their efforts are highly valued, so thank you.

“I’d also like to say a huge thanks to our colleagues at the Doctoral College for their ongoing support and hard work. It is thanks to their contribution that we are able to provide such a fantastic offering for post-graduate researchers.”

In terms of satisfaction overall, 81% of DMU respondents agreed that they were satisfied with their experience of their research degree programme, placing the university 16^th out of 38 participating institutions and recognising DMU as ‘above average’.

The PRES was developed in consultation with the sector and has been robustly tested across many disciplines, in several institutions and with students to ensure it produces valid results.

It enables universities to gather information about the experience of any research student on a research degree programme.

The survey focuses on six key areas, including: supervision, resources, the research community, progress and assessment, skills and professional development, and wellbeing. It also considers students’ motivations for taking up their programme.

For more information about the PRES click here or to learn more about post-graduate research at DMU, visit: www.dmu.ac.uk/doctoral-college/doctoral-college.aspx

Posted on Friday 4th September 2020