Overview
Our research training course prepares you for doctoral research. This could be in the social sciences, arts and humanities or in either the public or private sector.
The qualification meets the learning outcomes at certificate level in the national higher education qualifications framework.
This Research Training PGCert is delivered at Faculty level. Training takes place in an interdisciplinary environment. It is relevant to students from a wide range of disciplines.
As a PGR student you’ll be based in the school associated with your research. However, as a member of our Researcher Education and Development programme (RED), you can also use our bespoke suite of training rooms, working and social spaces on level 6 of the Henry Daysh Building.
These resources are part of School X, Newcastle University’s School of interdisciplinary studies. As a RED student you are automatically a member of School X.
This research training is also open to you if you’re an international student in the second or third year of PhD courses in your own country. It allows you to study abroad for a minimum of six months.
Important information
We’ve highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.
Your course and study experience – disclaimers and terms and conditions
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.
View our Academic experience page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2024-25.
See our terms and conditions and student complaints information, which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.
What you’ll learn
You’ll study optional and compulsory modules.
Modules
You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.
Course content changes
Module information is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
To find out more please see our terms and conditions.
Optional modules availability
Some courses have optional modules. Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
Research Training PGCert modules
| Compulsory Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Designing Doctoral Research | 10 |
| Theories and Methods for Research | 30 |
| Reflective Researcher Portfolio | 20 |
How you’ll learn
Depending on your modules, you’ll be assessed through a combination of:
- Computer assessment
- Essay
- Oral examination
- Portfolio
- Report
- Written examination
Your teaching and learning is also supported by Canvas. Canvas is a Virtual Learning Environment. You’ll use Canvas to submit your assignments and access your:
- module handbooks
- course materials
- groups
- course announcements and notifications
- written feedback
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to support from:
- peers
- academics
- personal tutors
- our University Student Services Team
- student representatives
You’ll also be assigned an academic member of staff. They will be your personal tutor throughout your time with us. They can help with academic and personal issues.
Your future
Our Careers Service
Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.
Quality and ranking
- 42% of our research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- Global Top 130 University – QS World University Rankings 2025
- Global Top 170 University – Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
- Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024
Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK
From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK
Entry requirements
The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.
Academic entry requirements
A 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in any social science or arts and humanities discipline.
We will also consider your application on an individual basis if you have lower qualifications and relevant experience.
