Research Degrees
Frequently asked questions on Royal Conservatoire of Scotland research programmes
Here are answers to our most common queries about the Royal Conservatoire of
Scotland's research degree programme. You’ll find more information in the Guide to Applicants or
the Code of Practice.
Can I talk through my proposal informally before I apply?
Yes, we encourage you to discuss your proposal before applying with a member of Royal
Conservatoire research staff.
Can I study part-time?
Yes. Many of our students study part-time.
Can I start at any time in the year?
No, all research students start at the beginning of the academic session in late September.
This is to keep all students’ annual progress reviews in step.
Can research programmes be undertaken at a distance?
No. The Royal Conservatoire's research programmes are not designed to be undertaken via
distance learning. You need to be resident in, or within reasonable access of, Glasgow in order to
meet regularly with your supervisors and take part in weekly sessions for research students.
Are there opportunities to teach to supplement my income?
There may be such opportunities for suitably qualified students, but not on the scale of,
for example, Graduate Teaching Assistant schemes in US universities. You shouldn’t plan to rely on
teaching at Royal Conservatoire to make ends meet while you study.
Are there any scholarships available?
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Trust funding is available to continuing students, but
there are no scholarships for new students. More details of funding opportunities are available
from the Head of Research. Many of our students are self-financing.
Do I have to do any taught courses?
No, not as such. Royal Conservatoire's research programmes are undertaken via independent
study. However, we organise weekly sessions for all research students that mix skills and methods
training, the opportunity to present and discuss your research with others and hear from visiting
speakers. If you need specific training as part of your research (for example in interviewing
skills, or a particular software package) this will be arranged separately.
Will my degree be from the University of St Andrews?
Yes, as our validating university, research programmes offered by Royal Conservatoire lead
to awards of the University of St Andrews. Research students matriculate at both the Royal
Conservatoire and the University and have access to the facilities of both institutions. Programmes
of study will be undertaken at, and administered by, the Royal Conservatoire and all fees will be
payable to the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
Does one supervisor have to be from St Andrews?
No. Each student normally has one internal Royal Conservatoire supervisor and one external
supervisor. The external supervisor does not have to be from the University of St Andrews.
How long does the research programme take?
For PhD, normally, 3 years full-time, 6 years part-time.
Can I skip a year if I have a Masters degree?
It’s possible, but it depends upon the nature of your Masters degree. A full research
Masters is the most likely to qualify you for exemptions.
