Doctoral College

PGR thesis in an alternative format

The University of Exeter recognises that research can be presented in many ways. Therefore, the definition of a 'thesis' is flexible, allowing for submission in an alternative, non-traditional format.

What is an alternative format thesis?

An alternative format thesis presents the research in a way that differs from the standard written document. Examples include:

  • A  multimedia document  (e.g. designed for a conference presentation).
  • A  constructed text, such as a piece of art, a portfolio, or a record of professional practice (e.g. a series of case studies).

Important:  An alternative format thesis must be accompanied by a written commentary that contextualises the work.

The approval process

You must obtain formal approval to submit your thesis in an alternative format.

  1. Early discussion:  Discuss your proposal with your supervisor as early as possible.
  2. Complete the form:  You and your supervisor must complete the  'Application to submit a thesis in an alternative format form'.
    • This form requires you to detail:
      • How the thesis will be structured and submitted.
      • How it will be archived by the University.
      • Plans for disseminating the research after completion.
  3. Submit for approval:  Return the completed form to your PGR Support Team.

Deadline for application:

  • Doctoral programmes (e.g., PhD):  24 months after your start date.
  • Research Masters (MPhil, MByRes):  12 months after your start date.

Only students with an approved form will be permitted to submit an alternative format thesis.

Further guidance

These procedures are designed to be flexible. Faculties are encouraged to send feedback to the Doctoral College Quality Development Team to help improve the process.

Q: I haven't started my degree yet, but I'm interested in an alternative format thesis. What should I do?

A: You are encouraged to discuss this with your proposed supervisor during the application process.

  • Your prospective supervisor will liaise with the Faculty to assess the idea.
  • If the request seems appropriate, you and the supervisor can begin discussing the Application to submit a thesis in an alternative format form to consider the implications.
  • You should still complete a standard programme application form.
  • Once you have registered as a student, you must follow the formal approval process outlined below.

Q: As a current student, how do I apply for an alternative format?

A: You must follow a formal approval process.

  1. Review the guidance:  First, read Section 3 of the 'Presentation of Theses/Dissertations for Degrees in the Faculty of Graduate Research: Statement of Procedures'.
  2. Discuss with your supervisor:  If you and your supervisor agree that the proposal is suitable, you must complete the  'Application to submit a thesis in an alternative format'  form together.
  3. Meet the deadline:  Submit the form by the deadline:
    • Doctorates:  24 months after your start date.
    • Research Masters (MPhil/MByRes):  12 months after your start date.

Points to discuss with your supervisor:

  • Do you/the supervisor have the appropriate experience?
  • Will it be difficult to find suitable examiners?
  • What is the exact submission format?
  • How will the written commentary support the non-written elements?
  • Are the submission guidelines clear for you and the administration team?
  • How will the thesis be shared with the examiners?
  • How will the thesis be archived?

The approval process:

Your PGR Support team will liaise with the Departmental Director of PGR (DDPGR) and the Quality Development Manager. If the DDPGR supports the proposal, it is sent to the  Dean of PGR  for final approval.

If approved:

  • You must submit your thesis according to the agreed format.
  • Attach a copy of your approved form to your final submission paperwork.
  • Store a copy in your  MyPGR  documents for reference.

Q: How does an alternative format affect the examination?

A:  It requires careful early planning for the Board of Examiners.

  • Early nomination:  Examiners must be appointed early in the process.
  • Informed consent:  Examiners must be made aware of the thesis format and any specific requirements (e.g. needing to be on-site, multiple examination events).
  • Technical access:  Confirm that examiners have the necessary software or ability to access and review the thesis (e.g. if it's not a standard PDF).
  • Independent chair:  A  Non-Examining Independent Chair (NEIC)  must be appointed for all alternative format thesis examinations.

Q: How is an alternative format thesis archived?

A:  The University must keep a permanent, unchangeable (static) version of the awarded thesis.

  • Text & images:  Usually saved as a PDF or similar file and stored in  ORE (Open Research Exeter).
  • Websites/online content:  The content must be captured (e.g. as PDFs) so it cannot be edited after submission.
  • Media & audio files:  Must be submitted in a copy that the University can keep permanently, not just as a link to a website.

Note:  The archived version might differ slightly from the original submitted work due to file conversion. If this happens, you should include a brief statement in your commentary explaining any differences.