Normally a postgraduate degree involves full-time study in the department, but part-time and external studentships are also possible. The academic year begins on 1 October but postgraduate research students may begin at other times of the year as studentships become available.
Each postgraduate student chooses an academic from outside their research group as a counsellor for independent and confidential advice.
The John Anderson Research Colloquia in physics offer students the opportunity to hear research leaders from a range of disciplines and institutions. PhD/MPhil students' attendance at the colloquia is compulsory.