How to write an academic argument

Sibusiso Ncanywa — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 16:17:47 +0000

Every thesis is an argument; watch this video to find out what an argument is in the academic world.

Other resources on building an academic argument can be found here:

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How long does a doctorate take?

Sibusiso Ncanywa — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:54:05 +0000

Making a contribution to knowledge – the requirement of any doctorate – is no small task. How long does it take? Watch this video to find out.

Here are some more resources about the nature of the doctorate:

The post How long does a doctorate take? appeared first on Enhancing Postgraduate Environments.

Finding the right programme & supervisor

PostGrad — Fri, 13 Oct 2017 12:39:25 +0000

Choosing a postgraduate research programme or department, and choosing a supervisor or supervisors to work with, is not a process that all prospective postgraduate students approach strategically, or with significant forethought. Often, students are assigned supervisors by the university department they register with, and this can create a ‘potluck’ situation, where the relationship may work out well or end in tears and frustration. Rather than waiting for a supervisor, especially, to be assigned to you, this video suggests a process, and guiding questions, for proactively researching prospective supervisors within your chosen research area. Using this guidance, we recommend that you think carefully about who you could work well with, whose research connects well with your own, and who has a sound reputation for constructive supervision. Although many students have to adjust their ideals to fit their financial and geographical reality, it is important for all prospective postgraduate students to carefully consider the place they want to study, and the people they want to be mentored by, as this relationship is one that can make or break a research degree process.

Developed by Sherran Clarence, Independent higher education consultant. Special thanks to Robyn and Kenny for their input.

Who might find this useful?

This material is for prospective postgraduate students, to use before they register for an MA or PhD degree.
Explore these additional resources

This video provides ideas on how to make the first contact with a supervisor:
https://postgradenvironments.com/2017/08/29/how-to-approach-a-potential-supervisor/
Choosing the right supervisor: http://wp.me/p3VNfn-C
How to get a rock star supervisor: https://thesiswhisperer.com/2017/04/19/8195/
Supervisor shopping: https://thesiswhisperer.com/2017/06/07/supervisor-shopping/
Advice on choosing a PG course: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/careers-advice/studentships/1270/top-10-tips-for-choosing-a-postgraduate-course
Secrets of postgrad success (Layla Cassim): https://mg.co.za/article/2011-04-27-secrets-of-postgrad-success/

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postgraduate study Archives - Enhancing Postgraduate Environments

How to write an academic argument

How long does a doctorate take?

Finding the right programme & supervisor