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What type of hat should doctoral graduates wear.

Traditionally, graduation attire has been worn at educational institutions as a sign of status, either by those admitted into degree programs or by professors and other academic mentors. Today, these traditional ensembles are only worn at graduation ceremonies. Each graduation outfit is distinctive in some way to the institution it is representing. It will generally consists of a gown, or “robe,” as well as a separate hood (if applicable) and a cap.

Doctoral Graduation Attire

A doctoral degree is the highest level of education a person can reach. Doctoral degree holders typically hold top university positions, including that of dean, president and professor. To show their great achievement, doctoral graduation attire is the most distinctive of all.

Doctoral robes are typically black and prominently feature a hood. The outside shell of the hood is black while the lining sports a color that represents the specific degree program. Doctoral gowns are very similar to the graduation gowns worn by bachelor and master graduates, however the doctoral graduation robe features an addition of three colored velvet bands on the sleeves as well as a colored velvet facing running down the front of the gown. This velvet accent is the color that designates the graduate’s program. For example, a PhD in theology would wear a black gown with dark blue velvet trim while a Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) would wear a black gown with scarlet trim.

The Doctoral Cap

Doctoral degree holders have two main options when it comes to head attire during graduation:

• Tams   – The tam is made of black velvet and is specifically reserved for those who hold a doctoral degree. Tams can come in several shapes with 4, 6, or 8 sides. However, the four-sided mortarboard-shaped tam is most common. Like the traditional graduation cap worn by the majority of graduates, the tam also features a tassel.
• Beefeaters   – The special cap known as the “Beefeater” or “Tudor Bonnet” is a variation of the traditional tam and steeped in English heritage. It is made of velvet and typically matches the gown or its velvet accent trim. The brim is stiff and accented with a fixed gold bullion or metallic tassel. This type of cap is typically reserved for the highest ranking official presiding over graduation.

Where Can I Get Graduation Tams and Beefeaters?

If you are looking for quality graduation apparel, including tams and beefeaters, choose   Gradshop.com . We are proud to serve over 100,000 schools worldwide and can provide you with the highest quality graduation apparel at the lowest price, guaranteed.

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Finland: PhD Doctoral Sword and Top Hat Graduation Outfit

Welcome to our exploration of one of the most unique traditions of academic achievement – Finland’s PhD Sword and Top Hat Graduation Outfit.

This distinctive Finnish tradition embodies a scholar’s quest for truth and knowledge, setting it apart from common academic ceremonies worldwide.

We dive into the deep significance of the doctoral sword and hat, the specific dress code, and other formalities involved in the graduation ceremony.

In this intriguing journey, we also shed light on how these practices reflect the Finnish dedication to higher education and academia, culminating in the doctoral hat, sword, and much more. Join us as we delve into the splendid world of Finnish PhD traditions.

Finland’s Doctoral Sword and Hat

Finland’s Doctoral Sword and Hat are unique symbols of academic achievement, representing a researcher’s dedication to the pursuit of truth and knowledge.

The sword, along with its scabbard, carried traditionally on the left side, becomes a precious possession, often engraved with the name and the date.

The sword, designed by Akseli Gallén-Kallela, is the only official civilian sword in Finland, reflecting a scientist’s fight for what they’ve discovered through rigorous research to be good, right, and true.

The doctor’s hat represents liberty, scholarship, and freedom of research, showcasing a clear and natural dedication to answering questions in their field.

With hat colors and emblems varying according to university and discipline, these powerful symbols mark one’s accomplishments and commitment to higher education at Finnish conferment ceremonies.

The Dress Code for a Finnish PhD

The dress code for a Finnish PhD conferment ceremony includes wearing a doctoral hat and sword, with the hat color representing the specific degree and its emblem denoting the university.

They are also often required to wear white gloves and other formal attire.

Other formal events within the festivities may require different attire, such as evening gowns and suits or cocktail dresses for men and women, but the distinctive doctoral hat and sword stand for the dress code at the core of a Finnish PhD ceremony.

Other formalities at Finish universities for a PhD graduation

It is not just about the PhD Sword and hat, there are other formalities that need to happen for the graduation. 

The events are shown below in the table:

The Hat and the Emblem Colours

It’s very important to wear the right colours and hat for the degree into which you are graduating. 

Here is a list of hat colors and emblems for various degrees at the University of Oulu:

• Doctor of Philosophy: Black Hat
• Doctor of Education: Black Hat
• Doctor of Medicine: Green Hat
• Doctor of Dentistry: Green Hat
• Doctor of Health Sciences: Black Hat
• Doctor of Science in Technology (D.Sc. (Tech.)): Specific Hat for D.Sc. (Tech.)
• Doctor of Science in Economics and Business Administration: Black Hat

Note that the exact appearance of each hat and emblem may vary depending on the university and discipline. 

Interesting side note: The Transportation of the PhD Sword in an Airplane

Because this is the ONLY cilivilian (non military) sword allowed in finland there are some special precautions you need to take if you are flying to another city. 

To transport a PhD sword on an airplane, follow these actionable steps:

• Pack the sword properly in its own transport box or package, ensuring it is secure and well-protected.
• Arrive at the airport with enough time to complete the necessary check-in procedures.
• Inform the airline staff at the check-in counter about the sword, as it must be registered and documented.
• The sword will be transported as registered luggage in the cargo hold, so make sure it adheres to the airline’s weight and size limitations.
• In the case of Finnair flights, there is no surcharge for sword transportation unless it exceeds the weight limit.
• For further information on sword transportation, consult the check-in counter at Helsinki-Vantaa airport or the representative of promovendi at your faculty if necessary.

Remember that sharp-edged items like swords must always be placed in checked luggage and are not allowed in the cabin.

Wrapping up – Finlands PhD sword and Hat

We’ve journeyed through Finland’s exceptional doctoral graduation customs, exploring the profound symbolism of the doctoral sword and hat, the stringent dress code, and the multitude of other traditions involved in the ceremony.

The doctoral sword, Finland’s only officially certified civilian sword, is an enduring symbol of a scientist’s relentless fight for truth and goodness, born of rigorous research. The doctoral hat, varying in color and emblem according to university and faculty, signifies liberty, scholarship, and the freedom of research.

These customs, unique to Finland, have their roots in the country’s commitment to academia and higher education, manifesting most prominently in conferment ceremonies at universities like Helsinki and Oulu.

Graduation becomes a transformative process, involving meticulous preparation, from ensuring the correct emblem on your hat to the safe transportation of your sword.

All these intricate customs and traditions symbolise the doctoral journey’s depth, contributing to an unforgettable ceremony, a testament to the rigorous research and determination of Finland’s academic fraternity. Through this journey, we hope you’ve gained a unique insight into the world of Finnish PhD graduations, their customs, and the profound symbolism they carry.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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What is a PhD hat?

The German PhD hat has become a POLIMA tradition

By Louise Skovborg Just, [email protected] , 4/22/2024

One of the joys of being part of a multi-cultural research group is to be introduced to different cultural and academic traditions. In POLIMA we are currently 17 employees from 8 different nationalities. 

In December, the Danish traditional Christmas lunch with pork roast and marinated herrings was spiced up with Chinese Tea Eggs, Portuguese Bacalhau and Greek Pastitsio.

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Doctoral Regalia:

Doctoral regalia is the most elaborate and sophisticated type of academic regalia. It is worn by individuals who have earned a doctoral degree, such as a PhD, EdD, or MD. Doctoral regalia consists of three main components: the gown, the hood, and the tam or bonnet.

The Doctorate Gown:

The gown is usually made of black material and has long, flowing sleeves. The front of the gown is open and often features velvet panels or decorative piping. The gown can be worn with a formal shirt and tie or a blouse and skirt for women.

The Doctoral Hood:

The hood is the most distinctive feature of doctoral regalia. It is worn over the gown and is usually made of silk or satin. The color of the hood represents the field of study or academic discipline of the wearer. For example, a blue hood signifies a degree in philosophy, green for medicine, and purple for law. The color of the lining of the hood represents the institution that conferred the degree.

The length and shape of the hood also vary according to the degree being conferred. The length of the doctoral hood is determined by the level of the degree, with the doctoral hood being the longest. The shape of the hood is also determined by the degree, with the doctoral hood having a bell-shaped design.

The Doctoral Tam:

The academic tam is a hat worn with the gown and hood. It is usually made of black velvet and features a tassel in a specific color that represents the degree being conferred. For example, a blue tassel signifies a PhD degree, while a gold tassel signifies an EdD degree.

Importance of Wearing Doctoral Regalia:

The wearing of doctoral regalia is an important tradition in academia. It symbolizes the wearer's academic achievement and expertise in their field of study. It is also a way to honor and recognize the years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice that went into earning a doctoral degree.

Doctoral regalia also serves as a visual representation of the academic community. It creates a sense of unity and belonging among scholars and helps to identify individuals who have earned a doctoral degree. It also promotes a sense of pride and accomplishment among those who wear it.

Furthermore, wearing doctoral regalia is a sign of respect for the institution and the academic community. It shows that the wearer is part of a larger network of scholars who are committed to advancing knowledge and making a positive impact on society.

Conclusion:

Doctoral regalia is a traditional and important part of academia. It represents the wearer's academic achievements, field of study, and institutional affiliation. It serves as a visual representation of the academic community and promotes a sense of unity, pride, and accomplishment among scholars. The wearing of doctoral regalia is a sign of respect for the institution and the academic community and is an important tradition that should be honored and respected.

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Doctoral hat under threat from the pandemic

The doctoral hat is one of the three insignia of the Degree of Doctor. The Swedish doctoral hat dates back to the 16th century and is handcrafted using methods dating from the 19th century.

Swedish doctoral hats are made individually to order in the same way as in they were in the 19th century. But these skills are now under threat due to a significant reduction in orders during the pandemic.

The fact that all higher education institutions postponed their conferment ceremonies during the spring may have a long-term impact on being able to order a Swedish doctoral hat.

“Yes, it is certainly a strange situation for us. Many people are not ordering a doctoral hat because the conferment ceremonies are not happening,” says Lisa Franzén, a master hatter at Franzéns Hattmakeri. “It doesn’t look bright for the next six months. Some universities have even postponed their conferment ceremonies until 2022.”

The doctoral hat, the doctoral ring, and the diploma are the three insignia which show that a person has obtained a Degree of Doctor.

The doctoral hat is made to order according to the person’s head dimensions and there are only two hatters in Sweden with journeyman and master certificates in the craft. They make these hats according to a method developed in France in the mid-1800s and the tools, methods and materials that they use have remained virtually unchanged since then. “The tools we use have often been handed down for generations. They are no longer made and we have to repair them ourselves when they break.”

Complex process

Lisa Franzén says that the doctoral hat is too complex for manufacture by machine. “Everyone has a different head shape – often oval in various ways – and for a hard hat to sit comfortably, it must be fitted to the wearer’s head shape. In addition, it is complex and difficult to produce a hat that is not round with a machine. So it is hardly a commercially viable product.”

Every little detail of the doctoral hat is custom-made and the materials must be ordered in large batches for them to be produced. For example, the Swedish doctoral hat models are covered with rep cloth, which uses a weaving technique where the warp forms a pattern, and the black band around the hat and the bow must be made using grosgrain ribbon, which has selvages (higher thread density) along both long sides. “We buy in the cloth every four or five years. Since the cloth is only used in the Swedish doctoral hat, we have to order and buy a whole batch of it in order to get someone to make the cloth.”

Two traditions

The doctoral hat has looked different in different periods down through the centuries from when the tradition arose in the late 16th century. In the 19th century, the doctoral hat was similar to the one we use today, but today’s doctoral hat only got its current appearance after the first part of the 20th century.

In Sweden there are two main traditions of doctoral hat: the model used at Uppsala University and at most other universities in Sweden; and the model used at Lund University and some other higher education institutions in southern Sweden. The Lund doctoral hat differs in that its brim is pleated and on the back there is a small bow and two ribbons.

The different faculties are marked by the shape of the buckle, with the exception of the Faculty of Theology which has no buckle, just a black bow.

Only for those who are being conferred

The doctoral candidate holds the hat in their hand in the procession and only dons the hat when the faculty’s degree conferrer starts their part of the conferment. This is also marked by a two-cannon salute that can be heard over much of Uppsala.

Lisa Franzén tells us that they are very careful not to deliver any doctoral hats without first checking with the higher education institution. “Only those whose doctoral degrees have been awarded have the right to wear the doctoral hat and I see myself as a protector of the insignia, even if some who have just begun their doctoral studies get frustrated when they cannot place an order. But the doctoral hat is not a commercial product.”

Lisa Franzén talks about the problems of being able to preserve the skills and knowledge of how to make a doctoral hat now that orders have fallen due to cancelled or postponed conferment ceremonies. “Most of our sales come from doctoral hats and the planning is often 18 months in advance so that we can order all the special materials required. “I’m proud to be something as nerdy as a hatter and my apprentice and I are almost the only ones passing on a whole cultural heritage in Sweden. The doctoral hat is part of a tradition that we should be proud of. The Conferment Ceremony is not just any old event. It is a ceremony that we should be hold in high regard.

“As hatters, we can change to make other products – the Swedish government’s support measures require that you make changes to your business – but what happens then to the Swedish doctoral hat and the traditions it stands for?”

Anders Berndt

Facts – The Conferment Ceremony

The Conferment Ceremony is a symbolic rite of passage for those who have completed a Degree of Doctor during the year. The first confirmed Conferment Ceremony at Uppsala University took place in 1488, but we do not know any details from that ceremony.

Promovendi are the doctoral candidates.

Degree conferrer is the person who carries out the ceremony within each faculty.

Jubilee doctor is a person whose doctoral degree was conferred 50 years ago and who is invited to the Conferment Ceremony. That tradition began at Uppsala University and has continued since 1804.

Doctors in Philosophy receive a laurel wreath at the Conferment Ceremony, while other faculties receive a doctoral hat.

The doctoral ring symbolises that the person on which a degree of doctor has been conferred has entered into a marriage with the Sciences. The symbols on doctoral rings correspond to those found in the buckles on doctoral hats.

Find out more

• The Doctoral Conferment Ceremony at Uppsala university
• This years Doctoral Conferment Ceremony will be different

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What is a PhD?

• Types of Doctorates
• A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest globally recognized postgraduate degree that higher education institutions can award.
• PhDs are awarded to candidates who undertake original and extensive research in a particular field of study.
• Full time PhD programmes typically last three to four years, whilst part time PhD programmes typically last six to seven years.
• A PhD can lead to an academia teaching role or a career in research. A PhD can also equip you with skills suitable for a wide range of jobs unrelated to your research topic or academia.

Definition of a PhD – A Doctor of Philosophy (commonly abbreviated to PhD , Ph.D or a DPhil ) is a university research degree awarded from across a broad range of academic disciplines; in most countries, it is a terminal degree, i.e. the highest academic degree possible.

PhDs differ from undergraduate and master’s degrees in that PhDs are entirely research-based rather than involving taught modules (although doctoral training centres (DTCs) offer programmes that start with a year of lecture-based teaching to help develop your research skills prior to starting your project).

In most English-speaking countries, those that complete a PhD use the title “Doctor” (typically abbreviated to Dr) in front of their names and are referred to as such within academic and/or research settings. Those that work in fields outside of academia may decide not to use the formal doctor title but use post-nominal letters (e.g. John Smith PhD); it’s unusual though for someone to use both the Doctor title and post-nominal letters in their name.

PhD vs Doctorate

A PhD and a professional doctorate are both research-based terminal degrees.

However, where a PhD focuses on original research mostly around theoretical concepts, a professional doctorate focuses on examining existing knowledge to solve real-life, practical problems.

While there is much crossover between the two, a PhD is generally better suited for an individual to wants to advance the knowledge and understanding in their field, and a professional doctorate degree is better suited to a working professional who wants to better be able to apply knowledge and understanding to their field.

What Are the Entry Requirements for a PhD?

To be accepted on to a PhD programme, students usually need to hold at least a high ( 2:1 and above ) undergraduate degree that is related to the field of research that they want to pursue. A PhD candidate may also be expected to hold a Master’s degree , however, this does not mean you must have one, as it is still possible to enrol into a PhD without a Master’s .

Self-funded courses may sometimes be more relaxed in relation to entry requirements . It may be possible to be accepted onto a self-funded PhD programme with lower grades, though these students typically demonstrate their suitability for the role through professional work experience.

Whilst a distance learning project is possible , most PhD candidates will carry out their research over at least three years based at their university, with regular contact with two academic supervisors (primary and secondary). This is particularly the case for lab-based projects, however, some PhD projects require spending time on-site away from university (e.g. at a specialist research lab or at a collaborating institution abroad).

How Long Does a PhD Take?

Typically, full-time PhDs last 3-4 years and part-time PhDs last 6-7 years. However, at the discretion of the university, the thesis writing-up period can be extended by up to four years.

Although most doctoral programmes start in September or October, they are generally much more flexible than taught-courses and can start at any time of the year.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

Tuition fees for UK and EU students vary between £3,000 and £6,000 per year, with the average tuition fee of £4,712 per year for 2023/24 programmes.

Tuition fees increase considerably for international students, varying between £16,000 to £25,000 per year, with an average tuition fee of £19,600 per year .

Nonetheless, most students will secure PhD funding in the form of studentships, scholarships and bursaries to help pay for these fees. These funding opportunities can either be partial, which cover tuition fees only, or full, which cover both tuition fees and living expenses.

UK national students can also apply for Doctoral Loans from Student Finance England if they are unable to secure funding.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

What Does a PhD Involve?

To be awarded a PhD, a doctoral student is required to produce a substantial body of work that adds new knowledge to their chosen field.

A PhD programme will typically involve four key stages:

Stage 1: Literature Review

The first year of a PhD involves attending regular meetings with your supervisors and carrying out a search on previously published work in your subject area. This search will be used to produce a literature review which should set the context of the project by explaining the foundation of what is currently known within the field of research, what recent developments have occurred, and where the gaps in knowledge are. In most cases, this will be an extension of your research proposal should you have produced one as part of your application. The literature review should conclude by outlining the overarching aims and objectives of the research project. This stage of setting achievable goals which are original and contribute to the field of research is an essential first step in a successful PhD.

The supervisor is the main point of contact through the duration of a PhD – but remember: they are there to mentor, not to teach, or do it for you . It will be your responsibility to plan, execute and monitor your own work as well as to identify gaps in your own knowledge and address them.

Stage 2: Research

The second year (and prehapse some of your third year) is when you work on your research. Having identified novel research questions from your review of the literature, this is where you collect your data to help answer these questions. How you do this will depend on the nature of your doctoral research: for example, you may design and run experiments in a lab alongside other PhD students or visit excavation sites in remote regions of the world. You should check in regularly with your supervisors to update them and run any ideas or issues past them.

Have the structure and chapters of your thesis in mind as you develop and tackle your research questions. Working with a view of publishing your work will be very valuable later on.

Stage 3: Write up of Thesis

The next key stage of a PhD is writing a doctoral thesis , which typically takes from anywhere between three months to one year. A thesis is a substantial body of work that describes the work and outcomes of the research over the previous two to three years. It should tell a detailed story of the PhD project – focusing on:

• The motivations for the research questions identified from the literature review.
• The methodologies used, results obtained, and a comprehensive analysis and discussion of the findings.
• A detailed discussion of the key findings with an emphasis on the original contributions made to your field of research and how this has been impactful.

There is no universal rule for the length of a PhD thesis, but general guidelines set the word count between 80,000 to 100,000 words.

For your thesis to be successful, it needs to adequately defend your argument and provide a unique or increased insight into your field that was not previously available.

Stage 4: Attending the Viva

A viva voce , most commonly referred to as just a ‘ viva ‘, is an interview-style examination where the PhD student is required to engage in a critical appraisal of their work and defend their thesis against at least two examiners. The examiners will ask questions to check the PhD student has an in-depth understanding of the ideas and theories proposed in their thesis, and whether they have developed the research skills that would be expected of them.

The viva is one of the final steps in achieving a PhD, and typically lasts at least two hours, but this duration can vary depending on the examiners, the university and the PhD project itself.

Once you have done the viva – you’re on the home stretch. You will typically be asked to make some amendments to your thesis based on the examiner’s feedback. You are then ready to submit your final thesis for either:

• PhD – If you pass the requirements you will be awarded a PhD degree (most common outcome),
• MPhil – If you failed to meet requirements for a PhD, you may be downgraded to an MPhil degree (uncommon outcome),
• Fail – No award is given, typically for cases of plagiarism (extremely uncommon outcome).

What Is It Like to Undertake a PhD?

We’re often asked what it is like to undertake a PhD study. Unfortunately, this isn’t a simple answer to this question as every research project is different.

To help give insight into the life of a PhD student, we’ve interviewed PhD students at various stages of their programmes and put together a series of PhD Student Interviews . Check out the link to find out what a PhD is like and what advice they have to offer you.

What Are the Benefits of A PhD?

A PhD is the highest globally recognised postgraduate degree that higher education institutions can award. The degree, which is awarded to candidates who demonstrate original and independent research in a particular field of study, is not only invaluable in itself, but sets you up with invaluable skills and traits.

Career Opportunities

First, a PhD prepares you for a career in academia if you wish to continue in this area. This takes form as a career in the Higher Education sector, typically as a lecturer working their way to becoming a professor leading research on the subject you’ve studied and trained in.

Second, a PhD also enables the opportunity for landing a job in a research & development role outside of the academic environment. Examples of this include laboratory work for a private or third sector company, a governmental role and research for commercial and industrial applications.

Transferable Skills

Finally, in possessing a PhD degree, you can show to employers that you have vital skills that make you an asset to any company. Three examples of the transferable skills that you gain through a PhD are effective communication, time management, and report writing.

• Communication – presenting your work in written and oral forms using journal papers and podium presentations, shows your ability to share complex ideas effectively and to those with less background knowledge than you. Communication is key in the professional environment, regardless of the job.
• Time management – The ability to prioritise and organise tasks is a tremendous asset in the professional industry. A PhD holder can use their qualification to demonstrate that they are able to manage their time, arrange and follow a plan, and stick to deadlines.
• Report writing – Condensing three years of work into a thesis demonstrates your ability to filter through massive amounts of information, identify the key points, and get these points across to the reader. The ability to ‘cut out the waffle’ or ‘get to the point’ is a huge asset in the professional industry.

Aside from the above, you also get to refer to yourself as a Doctor and add fancy initials after your name!

What Can I Do After a PhD?

One of the most desirable postdoctoral fields is working within independent Research and Development (R&D) labs and new emerging companies. Both industries, especially R&D labs, have dedicated groups of PhD graduates who lead research activities, design new products and take part in crucial strategic meetings. Not only is this a stimulating line of work, but the average salaries in R&D labs and emerging start-ups are lucrative. In comparison, an undergraduate with five years of experience within their given field will, on average, likely earn less than a new PhD graduate taking on a R&D position.

It’s a common misunderstanding that PhDs only opens the door for an academic career such as university lecturers and training providers. Although obtaining a PhD opens these doors, the opportunities extend far beyond educational roles. In fact, recent data from the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) indicates only 23% of PhD graduates take a position in educational roles . This low percentage is primarily because PhD graduates have a wide range of skills that make them suitable for a broad spectrum of roles. This is being seen first hand by the increasing number of PhD graduates who are entering alternative roles such as research, writing, law and investment banking.

How Do I Find a PhD?

We appreciate that finding a PhD programme to undertake can be a relatively daunting process. According to Higher Education Student Statistics , over 22,000 PhDs were awarded in 2016/17 within the United Kingdom alone. Clearly there are a huge number of PhD programmes available. This can sometimes be confusing for prospective doctorates, particularly when different programmes are advertised in different places. Often, it is difficult to know where to look or where to even start. We’ve put together a list of useful sources to find the latest PhD programmes:

• A great place to start is with our comprehensive and up-to-date database of available PhD positions .
• Assuming you are still at university, speak to an existing PhD supervisor within your department.
• Attend as many postgraduate open days as you can. Whilst there, speak to current PhD students and career advisors to get an awareness of what PhDs are on offer.
• Visit the postgraduate section of university websites and the PhD Research Council section of the UKRI website.

Browse PhDs Now

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Two Sigma Quant Research Coffee Chats Fall 2024 (BS/MS/PhD)

• Share This: Share Two Sigma Quant Research Coffee Chats Fall 2024 (BS/MS/PhD) on Facebook Share Two Sigma Quant Research Coffee Chats Fall 2024 (BS/MS/PhD) on LinkedIn Share Two Sigma Quant Research Coffee Chats Fall 2024 (BS/MS/PhD) on X

Juniors, Seniors, Master’s, and PhD students:

“Join us for a coffee chat at Harvard University on September 18th for BS/MS/PhD students. Our quant researchers will meet with you one on one to discuss their transition from academia to Two Sigma, and to answer any questions that you might have. You’ll also have the opportunity to discuss your research interests, some challenges you’re facing, and to see how you can apply your research or past internship experience at Two Sigma.

We hope to see you there!

About Two Sigma: Two Sigma is a financial sciences company that combines advanced technology and data science with rigorous human inquiry to solve the toughest challenges in finance. Two Sigma aims to generate alpha for its clients and deliver differentiated solutions in investment management, securities, private equity, real estate, impact investing, venture capital, portfolio analytics, and insurance. Founded in 2001 by David Siegel and John Overdeck, Two Sigma employs over 2,000 curious minds, and is headquartered in New York with offices around the globe.”

Coffee chats are a great opportunity to get a cover letter/resume review, learn how to navigate the application process, and practice your interviewing skills. Please bring your resume.

Two Sigma Website

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PhD Research Intern - Multimodal Research (Summer 2025)

Date: Sep 3, 2024

Location: San Francisco, US

Company: Dolby Laboratories, Inc.

Join the leader in entertainment innovation and help us design the future. The Advanced Technology Group (ATG) is the research division of the company. ATG’s mission is to look ahead, deliver insights, and innovate technological solutions that will fuel Dolby’s continued growth. As a valued member of the Dolby team, you’ll see and hear the results of your work everywhere, from movie theaters to smartphones. We continuously push the boundaries of audio, imaging, and cloud technology to create spectacular entertainment experiences.  

As a diverse and dynamic group, our ATG researchers work on cutting-edge projects related to computer science and electrical engineering for audio, video, and cloud technologies, exploring exciting domains such as AI/ML, algorithms, digital signal processing, audio processing, image processing, computer vision, AR/VR, data science & analytics, distributed systems, cloud, edge & mobile computing, computer networking, and IoT. 

What is the Research Internship Program?  

As a Research Intern at Dolby, you will have the opportunity to define and lead your own pioneering research project that connects big-picture change with the meticulous detail of technological innovation. Our intern research projects are driven by a greater purpose: enhancing the human experience. 

With the guidance of Dolby’s leading media technology experts, you will delve into your own innovative projects across exciting domains, which could include, but not limited to: Bringing Human Perception into Digital Experiences, Personalizing Content, Enhancing Wellbeing and Healthcare, Nurturing Deeper Connections, and Enhancing Education and Learning Experiences.

This opportunity will be based out of our research offices in San Francisco or Sunnyvale , depending on the role. 

What are we looking for in candidates? 

We are seeking current PhD students with a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. To be eligible, you should have completed at least one year of your doctoral program. Along with solid technical skills, candidates should demonstrate  problem-solving  and analytical abilities, good  communication  and  collaboration  skills, a  curiosity  for how and why things work as they do, and a passion  for audio, video, movies, music, or game technology. You have a desire to bring in new ideas and are open to learning from others. 

Summary of Position:  We are a key research team within Dolby’s Advanced Technology Group, focused on creating cutting edge multimodal technologies that drive next generation experiences. We are looking for strong candidates with an interest in, but not limited to one of more of the following areas: 

Machine perception and reasoning 

Computer vision, speech/audio processing and natural language processing  

Multimodal/cross-modal representation learning 

Multimedia content analysis, generation and enhancement (music, speech, audio, video, and/or text) 

Speech, music, or video content understanding and information retrieval 

Generative AI for media creation 

Efficient deep learning 

Explainable AI and trustworthy AI 

Perceptual and interactive multimedia 

Spatial computing for 6DoF A/V media 

3D deep learning (including NERF, Gaussian Splatting, etc.) 

2D/3D Object detection/segmentation/recognition/tracking 

Computational photography 

Human sensing for entertainment applications (human computer interfaces, affective computing, physiological data measurement and analysis, etc.) 

Computational/experimental neuroscience and human perception 

Immersive experiences and personalization experiential systems 

Requirements: 

PhD students in Artificial Intelligence, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, or related field. 

Proven ability to pursue new areas of multimodal research for AI, data analysis, or neuroscience and demonstrate results through projects, prototypes, patent filings, and papers in peer reviewed journals and conferences. 

Experience as a researcher, including internships, full-time, or at a lab. 

Experience with one or more programming languages (e.g., Python, C/C++, MATLAB, etc.). 

Highly Desired Experience in one of the following: 

Creating demos and prototypes for research applications. 

Working with frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow. 

Developing and training multimodal deep learning architectures. 

Writing technical reports and/or publications. 

First-author publications at peer-reviewed conferences or journals.  

We will review applications on a rolling basis. For the best chance to have your resume reviewed and considered, we recommend submitting your application by September 25, 2024. 

Eligibility: 

Currently a PhD student in Artificial Intelligence, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, or related field. Must be available to work full-time Monday – Friday for 12 weeks between May/June 2025 – August/September 2025. 

The start dates for this internship are as follows (please note these dates are not flexible): 

May 19, 2025 or 

June 16, 2025 

The San Francisco/Bay Area base hourly range for this internship position is $50-57/hr   and can vary if outside of this location. Our hourly ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific hourly range and perks and benefits for your location during the hiring process.

Dolby will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of San Francisco Police Code, Article 49, and Administrative Code, Article 12

Equal Employment Opportunity: Dolby is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Our success depends on the combined skills and talents of all our employees. We are committed to making employment decisions without regard to race, religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, marital status, family status, medical condition, disability, military service, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions or any other classification protected by federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.

Nearest Major Market: San Francisco Nearest Secondary Market: Oakland

© Copyright 2021

• How to Write a Great PhD Research Proposal | FindAPhD.com

How to Write a Great PhD Research Proposal

Written by Mark Bennett

You'll need to write a research proposal if you're submitting your own project plan as part of a PhD application. A good PhD proposal outlines the scope and significance of your topic and explains how you plan to research it.

It's helpful to think about the proposal like this: if the rest of your application explains your ability to do a PhD, the proposal demonstrates the actual PhD you plan to do. Of course, being able to effectively plan and explain a research project is one of the key qualifications for being able to complete one, which is why the proposal is such an important part of the PhD application process.

Thankfully, the secret to writing a good research proposal isn't complicated. It's simply a case of understanding what the proposal is for, what it needs to do and how it needs to be put together.

On this page

What is a phd research proposal.

First things first, do you need a research proposal for your PhD? It depends on the kind of project you want to do:

• If your PhD is advertised by a university, you probably won't need to submit a research proposal for it. The broad aims and objectives for your PhD will already be defined: you just need to prove you're the right person to do it.
• But, if you're proposing your own research topic to research within a university's PhD programme, you will need to write a proposal for it (the clue is in the word "proposing")

As a rule, advertised PhDs are very common in STEM subjects, whereas Arts, Humanities and Social Science students are more likely to propose their own PhDs.

Some PhD programmes actually wait and ask students to develop their research proposal during the degree (usually after they've completed some initial training). This is normal in the USA , but it's becoming more common for some UKRI-funded UK PhDs.

For the purposes of this guide we're going to assume that you do need to write a good research proposal for your PhD application. So let's explore what's involved in that.

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What should a research proposal for PhD admission include?

It's natural to be a little intimidated at the thought of structuring a PhD proposal, particularly if you've never written anything like this before.

But here's the thing: a research proposal isn't a fiendish test designed to catch you out and stop you ever doing a PhD. It's actually much more boring than that.

All a research proposal really is is a document that demonstrates three things:

• Your PhD is worthwhile
• Your PhD is feasible
• You are capable of completing it at this university

Or to put it even more simply: the PhD is worth doing, it's doable and you can do it.

Demonstrate your PhD is worthwhile (the what and the why)

A successful PhD project has to make a significant original contribution to knowledge. If it doesn't, it won't meet the criteria for a doctoral degree and will probably fail the viva exam .

Your PhD proposal itself doesn't have to meet those criteria (or pass a viva!) but it does need to indicate that your PhD project eventually will.

It does that by first demonstrating that your research topic is original. That means nobody else has studied this same topic (or one very similar) before.

There are all sorts of ways a PhD can be original. You might examine new data or primary sources, to look at existing material from a fresh perspective, or deal with the impact of new events. It doesn't matter how your project is original, so long as your proposal is really specific about what makes it original.

You also need to explain why your proposed research will be academically significant. To do this properly, you'll need to acknowledge relevant existing scholarship and explain how your research will relate to it. You don't need to be exhaustive at this point, but you should be able to show how your PhD will contribute to its field and – ideally – indicate some of the gaps in knowledge it will aim to fill.

The final step in demonstrating your PhD is worthwhile is to suggest what will become possible as a result of your research. How could other researchers use or build upon your results? What might closing those gaps in academic knowledge mean for audiences outside the unviversity?

Demonstrate your PhD is feasible (the how)

It isn't enough just to show that your research is worth doing; it also needs to actually be doable.

The length of a full-time PhD is around three to four years in most countries (it's longer in for a PhD in the USA , but you don't spend all that time doing research).

Three years may seem like a long time, but researching a PhD is a lot of work and you'll probably spend at least some of your time on other activities like teaching, conference presentations or even publication.

So, one of the things your proposal needs to do is demonstrate that your project is feasible: that it fits within the scope of a PhD.

The most important criteria for this is to be clear about what you plan to do. It should be obvious from your proposal what the scope of your project is – what is and isn't included within it.

You also need to outline how you plan to go about your research. Where will you start and what order do you expect to proceed in? Is the logic for that obvious? If not, it's probably a good idea to explain it.

Finally, you need to explain the methodology you plan to use. This could include techniques for collecting data and sources, theoretical perspectives for analysing them – or both. You may also need to detail specific equipment you expect to use or fieldwork you'll need to undertake (including trips to archives or other external resources).

None of this needs to be exact or completely final. The key word here is 'plan' – but you do need to have one.

Demonstrate that you can complete it at this university (the who and the where)

So far we've thought about the project itself: what makes it worth doing and how it's going to get done. But your proposal also needs to address the who and the where: why are you the right person to carry out this research, and why do you want to do it at this particular university?

The first part of this is easier than it probably looks. Writing a good research proposal demonstrates enthusiasm for your project much more convincingly than simply saying you're very interested in it (a classic case of 'show, don't tell').

You also don't need to repeat your grades and academic achievements (other parts of your PhD application will cover those). Instead, try to underline experiences that relate to this project. Has a particular module or Masters dissertation topic prepared you with useful subject knowledge or methodological skills? If so, highlight it.

It's also fine, within reason, to be honest about the skills you don't have and to identify your training needs. This shows you're being practical about your project and thinking seriously about what it will require. Just make sure you can realistically acquire the skills and training you need within the time available (this goes back to the feasibility).

Showing your project is a good fit for the university is also relatively simple. There should already be some reasons why you've chosen this university for your PhD so make sure you explain what they are. Perhaps there's a particular supervisor you'd like to work with , or facilities and resources your research could use. The key is to emphasise the fit between the project and the university – so don't just say you want to research there because it's highly ranked .

PhD research proposal structure

Hopefully the above sections have given you a few ideas for the things your proposal needs to include. Let's be honest though, the scariest thing about a proposal isn't deciding what to include: it's actually writing it.

But, if we flip that on its head, we remember that all a research proposal really is is a piece of writing that follows a pretty standard format. And that's a lot less scary.

Research proposal structure

Because proposals for PhD all have to do the same things, they mostly follow a similar structure. Yours will probably go something like this:

• Title – Keep it simple and descriptive: the clever alliteration and quotes can come later when you write up your thesis. For now, you just want the person reading this to know exactly what your research is about and, perhaps, which prospective supervisor to send it to.
• Overview – Start by defining your research question (the what) and explaining how it contributes to current work in your field (the why). This is also a good place to reference one or two pieces of scholarship: the full literature review can wait until your PhD begins, but you should show that you have some understanding of relevant academic research.
• Methodology – Make sure the reader understands the practical and / or theoretical approaches you'll take to your research. What data will you collect, how will you collect it and how will you analyse it? Ideally refer to relevant research methods and models. It's also a good idea to provide some sort of roadmap for how you'll go about things. Don't worry, you can change it later (and you will).
• Outcomes and impact – What will exist as a result of your research (other than just another PhD on a library shelf) and what will it make possible? You don't need to identify every specific outcome from your project (blue sky research is fine) but you should think about what some potential outcomes might be.

You probably won't need to include a specific conclusion - it should be obvious, by now, what your project is doing, how you're going to do it and why that matters. A quick summary sentence is fine though, if you think it will help.

Writing tips

Being able to effectively communicate academic concepts, ideas and results is a key skill for PhD research in all subjects . Think of your proposal as a chance to demonstrate this.

The good news is that the key principles of good proposal writing aren't that different from other work you've probably done as a Bachelors or Masters student:

• Be clear – The person reading your research proposal should know exactly what it is you're proposing to research, with no room for ambiguity and confusion. This is important on a practical level (they need to know where to send it) but it's also important to the success of your application: a confusing proposal suggests a confused project. Try having a friend read it and ask them "do you know what it is I'm proposing to do here?" (even if they don't understand the details).
• Be concise – You will have more ideas than you can include in your proposal. That's fine. Choose the best ones and leave the others for your interview .
• be coherent – Follow something like the structure above. Don't start with your methodology, then say what it is you want to research.

How long should a PhD research proposal be?

Honestly? As long as the university asks for it to be. Most will have guidelines and you should follow them closely if so.

If you honestly can't find a suggested word count for your proposal, then consider asking a prospective supervisor . If you still aren't sure, aim for somewhere between 1,000-2,000 words .

As a very general rule, Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences are a bit longer than STEM proposals (and a lot of STEM students don't have to write one anyway, as we've explained).

Research proposal for PhD admission - dos and don'ts

Research proposals are a popular topic over on the FindAPhD blog , where we've shared stories of how students wrote theirs , along with mistakes to avoid and a counter-intuitive look at the things a PhD proposal doesn't actually need to do .

Here are a few general tips and mistakes to avoid:

#1 Give yourself enough time to do a good job

Preparing to write a PhD proposal takes time and effort. None of this is wasted as the process of evaluating and framing your ideas for a proposal will improve your project plan immensely. So will the need to decide which ideas to include.

But you need time and space to do that, so make sure you get it. How long it will take to write your PhD proposal is heavily dependent on your personal working style, but you'll likely need to give yourself at least a few weeks to do a good job.

#2 Set out to impress

A good proposal isn't a begging letter. You're approaching the university with a great idea that's going to contribute to and enhance their research. Be honest, be realistic, but don't be unnecessarily humble. They should want you and your project.

#3 Demonstrate original thinking!

You may not need to present original research findings yet, but your proposal does need to present original ideas – and it should be clear why and how those ideas are original.

Make sure you indicate how your project is going to expand, enhance or even correct existing work in your field. Remember that making an "original contribution to knowledge" is a key part of what a PhD is .

#1 Send the same proposal to several universities

A good proposal needs to explain why you want to do your research at a particular university. That's a big part of the feasibility (the fit between project, person and place) and methodology (how are you going to use this university's equipment and archives; when and where will you need to travel).

It's OK to apply to more than one university in parallel, but, in that case, you're writing research proposals .

#2 Use online proposal templates (without evaluating them first!)

It can be tempting to search for PhD proposal samples on the internet, but make sure you evaluate what you find. Some websites may host old proposals from previous PhD students, but there's no way of knowing how relevant these are to your subject and university – or if they were even successful! More 'generic' research proposal examples can offer guidance, but they won't be tailored to your specific project.

The best place to look for a PhD proposal sample is your university. Consider asking your supervisor if they can share a good proposal from a previous student in your subject – or put you in touch with a current student you can ask.

#3 Confuse the proposal with the PhD

We've covered this on the blog , but it's simple enough to include here too.

You're setting out to do a PhD, but you (probably!) haven't done one yet. So you don't need to include research findings, in-depth analysis or a comprehesive literature review. You need to make a case for the research and analysis you want to do.

#4 Ignore your university's help and guidance

The advice on this page is necessarily quite general. We're considering adding guides to writing PhD proposals in specific subjects in future but, for now, the best place to get specific advice for your academic field is probably the university you're applying to.

See if you can get some subject-specific tips by contacting a supervisor , or just checking with the admissions team for your department.

And remember: if they give you a structure and a word count, stick to it.

Ready to apply for a PhD?

Find out what PhD opportunities are currently available with our FindAPhD course listings .

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You may also like....

We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about PhDs, covering course types, applications, funding and the benefits of further study.

Getting ready to apply for a PhD? Our guides explain research proposals, references and entry tests for doctoral programmes.

Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.

A checklist of the things you'll need to do when making an international PhD application, from meeting the entry requirements to sorting out your visa.

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Applying for a Doctoral Program

Start Your Application

Manage Your Application

A Doctorate is the highest academic degree awarded by universities in most fields of study. It involves several years of rigorous research, culminating in a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field. Doctoral candidates work closely with a faculty advisor to explore and answer complex questions, often pushing the boundaries of what is known.

Applying to a doctoral program is like applying for a job. This process requires more diligence and patience than applying for a Master’s degree. To stand out from a competitive pool of candidates, you must prepare a strong application that includes your academic achievements, any related research experience, and a clear statement of your research interests and goals. Be sure to demonstrate your passion, fit for the program, and your interest in RIT.

Explore our doctoral programs

How to Apply for a Doctoral Program

For details on the exact application requirements for your program, visit the Application Details section on your degree page and thoroughly review the graduate application instructions page .

• Most doctoral programs have an application deadline of January 15 and admit to Fall terms only, but be sure to verify the application deadline for your program and start terms before applying. Many programs will accept applications on a rolling basis after the priority deadline has passed until all spots are filled. For tips on completing your application, view our Ph.D. Application 101 recording . 
• Early applicants may see a “Hold for Program Deadline/Review Date” on the checklist in their portal. This an administrative hold that prevents applications from going for review until after December 15th. You will be notified when your file is sent to the review committee by email.
• Choose the Right Doctoral Program:  Review individual doctoral program pages carefully to learn the curriculum, research focus areas, facility profiles, and facilities to determine if the program is a good fit for you and to ensure that your interests and background align with the degree. The application will allow you to enter up to three choices in order of preference.
• Research Your Faculty Interests: Identify faculty members whose research aligns with your interests. Matching your research area with potential advisors strengthens your application and helps ensure a good fit. It is not necessary to secure a faculty advisor in order to submit your application. Learn more about researching faculty and areas of interest
• Craft Your Statement of Purpose for Research: This requirement should clearly convey your research interests, indicate what faculty member(s) you would like to work with, your experience, and why you want to pursue a doctorate at RIT. Each program may have specific guidelines, so be sure to address them. There is no minimum or maximum length. If you listed more than one program choice in your application it is suggested that you prepare separate statements for each program (doctoral and/or master’s). You may upload all three at the time you submit your application, or wait for a decision on your first choice program.  View program-specific criteria
• Choose Strong References: Make sure you choose the right people to submit letters of recommendation and give them plenty of time so they can prepare their support letter in advance. References should speak to your ability and promise to become a successful independent researcher. Professors, research supervisors, or professional mentors make ideal choices.
• Update Your CV/Resume: Ensure your CV or resume is current and highlights relevant academic achievements, research experience, publications, and professional skills.
• Verify Admission Requirements: Double-check all admission requirements and application details for your chosen program. Ensure you have all necessary materials, including transcripts, test scores, and any additional documents. You do not need to submit financial documents as part of your doctoral application. Focus on preparing a strong academic and research-focused application to showcase your qualifications and readiness for doctoral study.
• Understand Decision Timing: The review process typically starts in late January and may take several weeks to a few months. Be patient as the committee evaluates your application and aligns faculty advisors with candidates in matching research areas where funding is available. You may be invited to interview if faculty would like to know more about you. Interviews are not required. Admission decisions are first communicated in mid-March and continue until the class is full. If you are not admitted to your first choice program, allow additional time for review for second and third choices. RIT does not simultaneously review for multiple programs. 
• Replying to an Offer of Admission: Accepted candidates must respond to their doctoral degree offers by April 15 or the date indicated on your admit letter and in their portal. If you decide to accept your offer, you are expected to honor your commitment to enroll at RIT as a doctoral student. This ensures a smooth transition into your program and reflects your professionalism and reliability. 

Researching Faculty Advisors and/or Research Interest Areas

Identifying a potential faculty research advisor(s) and research interest areas in your Statement of Purpose for Research is important. It is not necessary to secure a faculty advisor(s) in order to submit your application.

Here are avenues for your research:

Align Research Interests

Ensure your research interests align with those of potential advisors. This alignment is crucial for a productive and supportive mentoring relationship. Review faculty members' recent publications and current projects to understand their focus areas. Visit the program page to learn about the current research for your program.

Use RIT’s “Find an Expert” Tool

Utilize RIT’s Find an Expert tool to identify faculty members with specific expertise. This resource can help you narrow down potential advisors based on your research interests. You may also want to use Google Scholar and search for RIT faculty.

Explore RIT’s Faculty Directory

Start by exploring the RIT Faculty Directory to find faculty members whose research aligns with your interests. This directory provides detailed profiles, including research areas, publications, and contact information.

Explore our Research Centers and Institutes:

RIT is home to a diverse array of research centers and institutes that drive innovation across various fields. These centers provide state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative environments to support groundbreaking research. Explore our extensive list of research centers and institutes

Reach Out to Potential Advisors

Once you’ve identified potential advisors, you may choose to reach out to them with a well-crafted email. This is not required but encouraged. Introduce yourself, briefly explain your research interests, and express why you’re interested in their work. Attach your CV and any relevant documents. Be respectful of their time and follow up if you don’t hear back within a couple of weeks. Do pay attention if it is documented that a faculty advisor is not taking on new students.

Funding Sources for Doctoral Students

Doctoral students typically receive full tuition and an RIT Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) or Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) that will pay a stipend for the academic year. There is not a separate application process for scholarship and assistantship consideration

Assistantships and Stipends

Research and teaching assistantships provide valuable experience and come with stipends that help cover living expenses during the school year, such as room and board. 

Summer Support Some programs are able to offer stipend support during the summer. Eligibility for summer funding will be determined by the graduate advisor and/or program director. 

Funding Throughout Program Funding throughout your doctoral program will depend on your satisfactory academic and research performance. Students are expected to fulfill their assistantship duties responsibly and make satisfactory progress towards their degree. It is expected that starting your second year, funding will be provided from your college either through a Teaching Assistantship or by your graduate advisor from external funds.

Student Fees Full-time students are responsible for both Student Activity and Student Health Services fees. In addition, RIT expects that all students will have health care insurance. Learn more about student fees

Timing and Distribution of Stipends

Graduate Research Assistants and Graduate Teaching Assistants receive a semi-monthly stipend payment starting a few weeks after the initial enrollment term. For U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents, no taxes are withheld at the time the payment is made. However, students are encouraged to file estimated tax payments quarterly. Detailed information about the timing and distribution of stipends will be provided by your academic department. 

Financial Document Submission

Doctoral applicants are not required to submit financial documents as part of the application process. Focus on showcasing your academic and research potential without the added stress of financial documentation. If you are admitted, you will receive funding notification with your admission offer and international students who require a student visa will be assisted through the I-20 process.

Student Support and Community

Doctoral Student Association

The Doctoral Student Association provides an inviting environment that brings students together to encourage collaborative work. Doctorate students collaborate to produce high-quality journal publications and conference presentations in a friendly and encouraging environment. The group also provides information about professional and social activities to help produce well-rounded graduate students.

Learn more about the Doctoral Student Association

RIT Graduate School

The RIT Graduate School acts as a central hub, enhancing the academic journey for graduate students by cultivating a diverse scholarly community and offering robust professional development programs. This supportive environment, backed by dedicated faculty and staff, empowers students to excel in their research, scholarship, and creative endeavors.

Learn more about the RIT Graduate School

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a doctorate and a master’s degree?

Understanding the differences between a doctorate (Ph.D.) and a master's (M.S.) degree program is crucial in making an informed decision. While a master's program typically focuses on advancing your knowledge and skills in a specific area, a doctorate emphasizes original research and developing new theories or applications.

Can I go from a Bachelor’s degree to a Doctorate? Do I need a Master’s degree first?

Yes, you can go directly from a Bachelor's degree (BS) to a Doctorate program. You are not required to get a master’s degree before pursuing a Doctorate. This pathway can be a strategic choice depending on your career goals and readiness for advanced research. 

May I have an application fee waiver?

The $65 application fee covers the management and processing of your record and admission materials. If you are unable to pay our application fee due to financial hardship, we encourage you to carefully consider the expenses associated with graduate study before applying.

Is there a set GPA requirement for being considered for a doctoral program at RIT?

Admitted doctoral students typically have a GPA of 3.0 or above. If it is lower, you will not necessarily be eliminated from consideration. You are welcome to apply. The Admissions Committee will consider your complete application when making a decision.

Do I need to provide GRE or GMAT scores ?

Requirements vary by program. Refer to your doctoral program page or the  deadlines and requirements  table for details. For programs that require test scores, we do not state minimum GRE or GMAT scores. Official scores should be sent to RIT directly from the testing agency using Institute code 2760.

What are the English language test score requirements? As an international student do I need to submit scores?

An official score report for the TOEFL, IELTS Academic, PTE Academic exam, or  RIT English Language Proficiency Test  is required of all international applicants who are not eligible for a waiver. We do not accept letters from your college or university indicating "English proficiency" or letters indicating courses were taught in English in place of official English language test scores. We do not accept Duolingo scores. See the “English Language Test Requirements” section in the  Application Materials  section of the  Application Instructions  for full details.

Do I need to have authored research papers to apply for admission to a doctoral degree?

No, you do not need published research papers to apply for a doctoral degree. A majority of admitted students do not have prior experience authoring research papers. However, admission to a doctoral degree is very competitive, and having published research papers helps strengthen your application.

How many students apply for doctoral study, and how many are admitted?

Admission to an RIT doctoral program is highly competitive. The number of applications received and the number of fully funded opportunities are limited and vary from year to year and by program.

Will the stipend fully cover living costs in the US?

The stipend should cover modest living expenses (housing and food), fees (student activity fee and health services fee), and costs for books, supplies, and some personal expenses. However, each student differs in their preferred living styles and their relative expenses. Doctoral students are permitted to take on other part-time employment so long as it does not interfere with their doctoral work (international students are only able to work on campus, for a total of 20 hours per week including their research positions). On-campus opportunities can be found through Career Connect .

Do doctoral students need to have personal finances available upon arriving at RIT?

Though our Ph.D. is fully funded, students do need to have their own funds available for travel and arrival in the US and to get settled in Rochester immediately upon entering the program. Please be sure to keep this in mind as you consider applying and your finances. If admitted, your first payment/stipend would not be until a few weeks into the program, so you will need to have a foundation of funds available for housing and other living expenses before that.

Is funding throughout the program guaranteed?

Your full tuition and assistantship stipend responsibilities will be determined by your graduate advisor and/or program director. It is our expectation that you will fulfill your duties responsibly and make satisfactory progress towards your degree. Funding in future years will depend on your satisfactory academic and research performance. It is expected that starting your second year, funding will be provided from your college either through a Teaching Assistantship or by your graduate advisor from external funds.

Our team is here to help you as you apply to RIT's doctoral programs. Do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need assistance.

Contact Your Admissions Counselor

Email  [email protected] to be connected with your admissions counselor

Chat with Us

For general questions about RIT or applying to one of our doctoral programs, use our live chat or search your question in the chatbot.

Request an Appointment or Schedule a Campus Visit

An in-person visit or virtual meeting with an admissions counselor will provide a personalized experience that suits your needs.

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Blog post Part of series: BERA Conference 2024 and WERA Focal Meeting

Who really belongs in higher education? Insights from research with disabled staff and PhD students in the UK

Ben Whitburn, Associate Professor at University of Southampton Jonathan Vincent, Lecturer in Higher Education at Lancaster University 3 Sep 2024

In this blog post we offer some insights from a recent study among disabled staff and PhD students in the UK to consider what it means to un/belong in the current higher education (HE) sector.

What is belonging?

Though the concept of belonging is difficult to define, there is increasing evidence of its application within EDI discourses as well as scholarly attention with particular reference to students. For instance, a collaboration between WonkHE and Pearson examined students’ sense of belonging, reporting that connection, inclusion, support and autonomy are the ‘four foundations of belonging at university’ (see Blake et al., 2022). Elsewhere, researchers have advanced an argument that belonging is a relational, situated and processual experience, which is complexly linked to the digital and physical environment of a university (see Gravett & Ajjawi, 2022). Under such dynamic conditions of uncertainty, Gravett & Ajjawi (2022, p. 1388) contend that ‘there is an urgent need to question who can belong, how, and to where/whom?’ We designed our project to address these sorts of questions specifically as they apply to disabled staff and PhD students, whose support necessarily falls within institutional EDI efforts .

So what did we do?

As disability can no longer be understood in simplistic medical or social model positions but – like belonging – might be understood as an almalgum of social, material and critical knowledge-making capacities, we were eager to learn how disabled people navigate and contribute to higher education in ways that affect their sense of belonging. In total, we interviewed 19 participants: 13 disabled staff members, 2 PhD students, and 4 members of staff who were also completing doctorates from a range of universities across the UK. In keeping with our intention to engage ‘inclusive disability-orientated research’ (see Nind, 2017), we enhanced accessibility for participants by offering various adjustments including having access to interview questions in advance, additional processing time, holding shorter interviews, and movement breaks. Ethical clearance was granted by the institutional review board at both institutions.

What we found

As we will discuss at the BERA Conference 2024 and WERA Focal Meeting in Manchester in September, there were a number of pertinent themes which situated un/belonging along intersecting affective, relational, spatial and political lines.

Belonging was predominantly articulated in affective terms, often associated with feeling valued by and within institutions. As one participant explained:

‘it’s sort of feeling … comfortable with the people in your community, comfortable with knowing how you can accomplish different things, whether it be a part of life or part of your professional requirements. So it’s a feeling of comfort, I guess.’

Relational belonging, or a sense of connection, also played a significant role for many participants. They expressed this sense of the concept as fostered through staff networks, management, supervisors and peers; as another participant stated:

‘So there’s a bit of a feeling of solidarity … it’s definitely a contributor to belonging.’

However, experiencing un/belonging was also prevalent and experienced as practical and political encounters with ableist structures and policies. Participants highlighted challenges such as a lack of necessary reasonable adjustments , continually having to negotiate for accommodations, and inaccessible physical spaces. As one participant told us:

‘I’ve definitely felt – I’m made to feel like a nuisance and I’ve been made to very much feel like I’m the problem in terms of when I [inhales] when I ask for “unreasonable” things like videos being captioned. I’ve been copied into, again, 10, 20 emails about how much extra work it is that has to be done now.’

‘Actively creating space for un/belonging was viewed by some as a political act of subversion, therefore problematising the notion that belonging is inherently positive.’

These encounters often led to self-disciplining mechanisms, including the masking of impairments for those who could do so or withdrawing from social interactions. Interestingly, for others, actively creating space for un/belonging was viewed as a political act of subversion, therefore problematising the notion that belonging is inherently positive.

Our study develops some important implications for fostering disability knowledge and experience within institutional policies, curriculum and procedures. Under the increasingly neoliberal conditions within higher education, accessibility and reasonable adjustments have become highly individualised, which has reduced the capacity for relational and political belonging. However, what is starkly clear from our data is that disabled staff and PhD students can offer vital insights into the nature and experience of un/belonging and its potential to transform higher education.

This blog post relates to a paper presented at the BERA Conference 2024 and WERA Focal Meeting on Tuesday 10 September at 9:00am. Find out more by searching the conference programme here .

Blake, S., Capper, G., & Jackson, A. (2022) Building belonging in higher education: Recommendations for developing an integrated institutional approach . Pearson and WonkHE.

Gravett, K., & Ajjawi, R. (2022). Belonging as situated practice. Studies in Higher Education , 47 (7), 1386–1396. https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.2021.1894118

Nind, M. (2017). The practical wisdom of inclusive research. Qualitative Research , 17 (3), 278–288. https://doi.org/10.1177/1468794117708123

BERA Conference 2024 and WERA Focal Meeting series

Blog post 3 Sep 2024

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‘Google my name’: PhD scholar selling street food in Tamil Nadu tells American vlogger

American vlogger christopher lewis discovered a street food cart run by a phd scholar in chennai. during their chat, the vendor shared his research background, sparking discussions on social media..

The vlogger then searches Google for the vendor’s name and college: “Tarul Rayan SRM University.”

The viral clip was shared on social media via X (formerly Twitter) user FI_InvestIndia. While sharing the video, the user said, “Respect. Such stories need to be shared widely. Have an inspiring day ahead…”

Check out the video here:

The video gained great traction and had over 81.8K views until the story was written. Several users engaged in the comment section of the X post and highlighted that many students work part-time and help their parents in Tamil Nadu.

"The same YouTuber went to Marina Beach and ate Corn in a shop. A girl was there helping her mom and doing college. In Tamil Nadu, you can see many students doing part-time and helping their parents," a user commented.

"This is one example why TN leads. Knowing English is the gateway to acquire knowledge," another added.

One user also tried to give the video a north vs south angle and said, "This is what a difference is between south and north. North, you guys are focusing only on religion and caste. Here, we treat everyone the same. Our primary focus is on education."

Notably, over the past decade, several startups with entrepreneurs like MBA Chaiwali, BTech Panipuri Wali, Audi Chaiwala have boomed in India. These entrepreneurs have also garnered a lot of attention on social media.

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