Prof Lilie Chouliaraki

This course is available on the MPhil/PhD in Data, Networks and Society and MPhil/PhD in Media and Communications. This course is not available as an outside option to students on other programmes.

Pre-requisites:

Students must have completed MC500 before taking this course.

Navigating the dual challenges of completing a PhD and launching a career requires both academic rigour and strategic planning. This course is designed specifically for third- and fourth-year doctoral researchers who are aiming to submit on time while also preparing confidently for the uncertain post-PhD professional landscape. Structured around a mixed schedule, the course alternates between sessions focused on the core challenges of thesis chapter write-up and career-focused sessions that support students in developing their post-graduation strategy.

The course is organised around two complementary pillars. The first, focused on the writing-up process, is led by Prof. Chouliaraki and offers individually tailored, constructive guidance on participants’ work in progress. Through student-centred, draft-based and interactive sessions, this pillar places students’ own writing at the centre of discussion. Each participant commits to submitting a draft PhD chapter and commenting on the work of others, while the course tutor guides the conversation and synthesises recommendations for next steps.

The second pillar, focused on career readiness, is delivered by a combination of experienced faculty members, successful PhD alumni and specialist careers advisers. These sessions aim to prepare students for both academic and non-academic professional pathways. Topics include crafting competitive CVs, publishing during the write-up period and preparing for rigorous faculty interviews, as well as demystifying the non-academic job landscape and helping students translate advanced research skills into opportunities across the corporate, public, policy and external research sectors.
 

20 hours of workshops in the Autumn Term.
20 hours of workshops in the Winter Term.