MSc induction

Induction programme

The department provides a comprehensive induction for all new students in early October. This runs in parallel with induction events organised by colleges and the Medical Sciences Division. The programme of induction is designed to enable students to begin their studies with an understanding of the academic and social environment within which they will be working and includes:

• facilities available for students within the department
• relevant health and safety practices within the department
• guidance on good academic practice and the avoidance of plagiarism
• introduction to staff and their roles and an opportunity to meet socially and informally with other students and staff in the department, especially the course director.
• orientation to the course, i.e. methods of assessment and examination, regulations and other requirements, as well as general processes
• dissertation supervision arrangements, including establishing appropriate working patterns, the minimum frequency of supervision meetings and the purpose of such meetings, evaluation, monitoring and reporting procedures
• wider academic opportunities (seminars, journal clubs, research networks) including opportunities for meeting other students and staff
• student welfare (in the departmental context)
• academic expectations of students and responsibilities of students (see Section 6 of this policy)
• typical challenges which may face the graduate student and sources of support and guidance including support for developing study skills
• how to raise concerns and/or make a complaint, and opportunities to provide feedback (e.g. through a Joint Consultative Committee). 

Workspace

The majority of the MSc teaching takes place in a dedicated teaching suite or lecture theatre equipped with wi-fi.  When not in use for teaching, the teaching suite is designated as a quiet study area for independent study.

Department pastoral support

In addition to pastoral support provided by individual university colleges, the department is committed to supporting graduate students throughout their studies. The academic supervisor is the first point of contact and the course director may also offer advice and support where there is a difference of opinion between two parties. The welfare contact can also help with signposting students towards suitable support and contacts.

A number of student-led initiatives offer informal advice and guidance on various topics from research activities to arranging a social event. This includes student mentors and trained peer supporters.