Frequently asked questions about Full-time Research Studentships at the Knowledge Media Institute
Broadly speaking, KMI PhDs tend to be in knowledge technologies, human computer interaction, and learning sciences. However, you will probably get a pretty good idea of what we're up to from our web site, especially the projects and technology listings: http://kmi.org/projects/
http://kmi.org/technologies/. We also positively encourage interdisciplinary work.
However, it is essential that you find a supervisor that can properly help and work with you for the time of your studentship; if you don't have that, we won't be able to help you.
Can I apply, even though I'm not from the UK?
Yes, you can! KMI is truly international (in fact most of us are not from the UK) and we welcome applications from all over the world.
When should I apply?
KMI studentships begin on 1st October each year, unless there are very exceptional circumstances. Applications should generally be received by the Open University's Research Degrees Centre by 31st March the same year. They forward all applications mentioning KMI to us.
How do I apply?
You need to ask the Open University's Research Degrees Centre for a prospectus, which includes an application form. You can do this through the internet, at http://css2.open.ac.uk/outis/1a/O1AEnqHome.asp. Or just browse or download the prospectus online at: http://www.open.ac.uk/research/research-degrees/.
It is essential that you include a proposal with your application. This is central to our judging of applications, both at the shortlisting time and afterwards. Follow the links and directions on the KMi Studentship page to find out which specific projects are seeking students this year. We do consider applications for other projects, but the key is to find a supervisor, so browse the KMi Projects / Technologies to see what we do:
How many copies of the application form do I need to fill in?
You need to fill in one original, and one additional copy of everything for each department you are applying to. So, if you are only applying to KMI, you need to send the original and one copy of everything. There is no need to fill in both copies of the application form by hand.
How much do I get?
For full-time students, starting from 2005 this will be 12,000/year.
What about part-time study?
Yes, you can do that with us as well, but we normally expect our part-time students to be UK residents. There is also a difference between working with us locally, or at a distance in the support we can provide you. It all depends on individual supervisors as to whether they wish to consider part-time / distance PhDs. See the note on part-time PhDs at: http://kmi.org/studentships/phd.php
How much does a part-time PhD cost, and how long might it take?
See the Research School's prospectus information on fees:
A typical part-time PhD will take 5 to 6 years to complete.
How can I make my application as strong as possible?
Firstly, KMI studentships are pretty competitive, so a Masters degree and/or some academic/research experience will help a lot as well. Finally, many people who have done Masters projects with us, or who have worked with us as summer interns [http://kmi.org/visitors/], have gone on to take PhDs with us as well. (Don't let this put you off if you haven't done one, but you might want to consider working with us for a couple of months doing a Masters project, or something similar, to boost your application.)
Secondly, discuss your proposal with a member of staff in advance.
What about combining a PhD with a Research Assistantship?
If you get an RA place in KMI, you can register to do a PhD part-time if your boss is happy. Check the Jobs pages for details of vacancies:
