Fieldwork and/or Data Collection during your studies

Fieldwork/data collection trips should take place in your period of active registration and be concluded in enough time to allow for your thesis to be completed by your expected submission deadline. Further periods of fieldwork/data collection should not be required in the Extension period of your studies.

All Doctoral Researchers undertaking travel for their research programme should ensure that they read and follow the University Fieldwork Policy. This policy provides guidance to ensure that your fieldwork/data collection is undertaken safely.  
You will also need to make sure that you follow your School’s fieldwork policy and complete any further requirements that they have in place.

While on fieldwork/data collection, you must continue to meet with your supervisors on a monthly basis. Your monthly meetings will still need to be recorded on Co-Tutor but they can be conducted remotely via phone or Teams calls. 

Fieldwork/and or Data Collection for Student Visa Holders

If you are a Student Visa holder you will also need to inform the Doctoral College of your fieldwork/data collection plans.  

Your visa sponsorship can be maintained for a trip of up to six months in the first instance. However, this may be extended for up to 12 months depending on the requirements of your research.

You will need to email the Doctoral College Office at least two weeks before your travel with the following:

• The date you will be starting your period of fieldwork/data collection  
• The date you will be returning to your studies on campus
• Confirmation from your supervisor that the fieldwork/data collection trip is required for your PhD research  
• Confirmation that you will continue to attend monthly meetings with your supervisor (held remotely via phone or Teams calls).