All doctoral research students must submit a research proposal confirmation (RPC), also known as the initial research plan or planning report, within the first eight weeks of their programme. The aim of the RPC is to help students focus on their project and to form a basis against which future progress can be measured. Completing the plan in conjunction with your supervisor, be sure to include a methodological approach, potential difficulties and back-up strategies as well as a timeline.

The RPC must be submitted Blackboard, where full guidance notes for the milestone can be found.