INFORMATION FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

Taught programmes normally begin at the start of the academic year in September. As outlined above, the programmes will comprise taught elements, which will usually include some compulsory courses and a range of specialist options from which you make your selection. Assessment of the taught components is normally by unseen written examination and may also include assessment of coursework. Master's programmes also usually include a research component which contributes significantly to your final result and is examined by report or dissertation.

Whilst our taught programmes undoubtedly involve intense, in-depth study, they are well supported and teaching is usually carried out in small groups, meeting frequently with academic tutors. You will have opportunities to analyse important issues, theories and approaches in seminar discussions with staff and fellow students, and individually with your tutor. Advice on the selection of options and, where relevant, the subject of your dissertation or research project, is readily available from your programme tutor.

Your programme tutor will provide essential support throughout your studies, including academic advice and, where appropriate, directing you to other support services available at UCL. In addition to this, the UCL Graduate School aims to ensure that your studies are enhanced through access to a range of opportunities which enable you to gain maximum benefit from your time at UCL. For details please see www.grad.ucl.ac.uk.

This Code contains guidelines for good practice and aims to ensure that students are aware of the structures within which they will study, and of the roles of the  various staff they will have contact with, such as programme directors, project supervisors and departmental graduate tutors. It also defines the responsibilities of the student, and addresses some generic issues relating to graduate study, such as study leave. For details visit www.grad.ucl.ac.uk/codes.

The Graduate School's extensive Skills Development Programme brings together a wide variety of workshops, training courses and online opportunities designed to help expand your generic research skills and personal transferable skills. Courses available to taught graduate students cover areas such as IT skills, library skills, and career management and employability skills. Full details can be found on the Graduate School's website www.grad.ucl.ac.uk/skills.

The Graduate School plays an important role in providing intellectual and social contacts between graduate students, enabling you to meet fellow students from different disciplines, countries and backgrounds. One element of this is provision of a dedicated Graduate Computer Cluster Area and a separate Graduate Common Room. You may also join one of the supported academic societies which organise graduate seminars and social events. Welcome events for new graduate students provide an excellent introduction to the services and facilities on offer, and to the activities of the Postgraduate Association of the UCL Students' Union.