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Period of Study

Academic Year 

The University academic year starts at the beginning of September and ends at the end of August in the following calendar year.

Normal Duration 

The normal duration expected for the completion of an approved programme of research leading to the degree of MPhil or PhD is as follows:

Degree

Study Mode

Normal Period

MPhil

Full-time

2 years

Part-time

3 years

PhD

Full-time

3 years (with a relevant master’s degree)
4 years (without a relevant master’s degree)

Part-time

5 years (with a relevant master’s degree)
6 years (without a relevant master’s degree)

Minimum Duration 

Subject to the discretion of the Postgraduate Studies Committee, the minimum period of research is as follows:

Degree

Study Mode

Minimum Period

MPhil

Full-time

18 months

Part-time

30 months

PhD

Full-time

30 months

Part-time

42 months

Maximum Duration 

Exceptionally, the period of registered research may be extended to a maximum period as specified below:

Degree

Study Mode

Maximum Period

MPhil

Full-time

36 months

Part-time

48 months

PhD

Full-time

60 months (with a relevant master’s degree)
72 months (without a relevant master’s degree)

Part-time

84 months (with a relevant master’s degree)
96 months (without a relevant master’s degree)

Recognition of Previous Research Work 

If a candidate has undertaken part of a research programme as a registered candidate for a research degree in a university or such other recognised institution of higher education, he/she may make an application explaining what work has been done and its relevance to the University programme. The maximum credit to be given to such work, in the event such application has been approved, shall not exceed 50% of the normal period of research.

 

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