Changing target degree
An MRes/LLMRes student may transfer to a PhD through a review decision; a PhD student may request or be recommended for transfer to MRes/LLMRes. This requires formal review and School consideration.
Record the decision
A change can arise at RD4, RD5 or RD6. Outside the usual cycle, document reasons on RD6; the usual personal reflective report is not needed solely to record the change. For a lower award, arrange a meeting to discuss implications.
The RD5 section specifies a revised proposal and another RD4 where the target is altered. Agree the required plan/paperwork with the School.
Time and fees
For a higher award, the end date is recalculated and total fees increase. For transfer down:
- Before the lower award’s standard end: that standard date applies.
- After that standard end: normally 12 months from transfer to complete.
- During grace: the original registration end dates continue.
Fees already charged are not refunded on transfer down.
Visa holders must obtain specialist advice before approval: a higher award requires a new visa and a lower award may also change visa terms.
PhD by Published Works cannot be examined for a lower MRes/LLMRes award under its route-specific rules.
Sources: Framework §§5.3, 4.4, 9.4, pp. 43, 54–55, 95. Read the source.