The University of Sunderland DProf

Recommended by a colleague who successfully completed the programme within a period of just under 3 years, I was drawn to the possibility of finally completing my doctorate journey in a reasonable time. As this is not my first experience of doctoral studies (the first did not end as well as I would have liked, more on that anon), I wanted to be sure that there was at least reasonable chances of success before I signed up and committed to yet another study journey into the unknown.

Exploring the University of Sunderland DProf programme format, primarily self-learning supported by five didactic taught modules giving focus and direction to self-learning appealed. So too did the programme descriptor and its language focus on ‘pragmatic’, ‘complex’, ‘real world’, multi-disciplinary’ and ‘diverse ideas’. The programme was stressing itself as a unique means of blending research and professional practice so as to enable the creation of what they term ‘the researching professional’.

The taught elements were perhaps going to ground me into the habit of self-study and equipment with missing skills or at very least reinforce existing one. At least having worked through these I would have proven to myself my ability to write and think at doctoral level, that of course assumes I pass the 5 core modules in due course.

So the application was finally submitted, yes there was procrastination, yes there was self-doubt and even an elements of asking myself ‘are you crazy man?’, but the application was submitted by the deadline and requesting a September 2018 start.

Then on the 26th September 2019 at 11:46 an email arrived with:

1. Unconditional Offer Letter including Acceptance Form, University Terms & Conditions and Professional Doctorate Further Information

2. Regulations for the award of Professional Doctorate

3. Distance Learning Research Programmes Guidance for PGR Students

4. Postgraduate Research Student Handbook – DProf 2018-9

Sign on the dotted line.....

I think my initial reaction was oh god what do I do now……. With the signed acceptance due to be returned no later than 30th September, there was not much more time for self doubt.

I progressed through the online enrolment process, made arrangements for payment and inserted the module dates into the diary. My studies and research will be within the School of Business within the Faculty of Business, Law & Tourism. I have been assigned supervisors and given some

key dates to work towards.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen I am officially a DProf student with the University of Sunderland, let this journey begin.