Support, belonging and access : examining funded doctoral centres and the Postgraduate student experience

Abstract

This thesis presents research on Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) and Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) in the UK. Whilst other studies have focussed on a single research council or the impact on access for students, this research provides a holistic view. The research examined the UK funding landscape and the provision of funding across institutions and disciplines. The research was conducted using mixed methods, incorporating the perspectives of staff and students, via a survey of 209 students and 11 staff interviews. Using the Community of Practice framework and supporting theories, key aspects of the student experience are presented, including peer support, student wellbeing and access to opportunities. These are examined in the context of benefits and disadvantages to students within the centres and those outside the system. Issues of inequalities are explored, considering funding allocations across UK Research and Innovation, and an exploration of a two-tier system is presented. Positive benefits of centres were identified, which could be replicated in HEIs where significant external investment is absent. The research is grounded in the interest of the researcher, who worked as a manager, and tutor, of students within a CDT for three years during the research. Therefore, the positionality of the researcher is considered throughout, illustrated through a reflection of insider-outsider standpoints. The thesis provides recommendations on how the UK’s doctoral landscape could be shaped and funded to achieve a more positive and equitable student experience. It is situated in a landscape undergoing significant changes with an increased focus on research culture, higher education funding and the introduction of doctoral loans as a pathway into study. Findings and recommendations from the research were submitted into UKRI reviews into doctoral environments and will be disseminated as policy briefings.