Handling Problems associated with the Project/Dissertation

In this section of the handbook you are given advice on sources of help and mechanisms by which to ensure a good working relationship with your dissertation/project supervisor and identify any problems at an early stage in the project. Note that all possible lines of communication (Dissertation/Project Supervisor, Academic Advisor, Programme Director, Deputy Senior Advisor, Student Support Office) are always open to you.

Although we do not anticipate that you have any difficulties during a dissertation/project that are linked to a breakdown in the relationship with your dissertation/project supervisor and, indeed, such problems are rare, we do recognize that issues can occur. As outlined above, identification of such issues should lead to effective communication via the described available channels. A student can request confidentiality in a meeting with one or more of these individuals. The same individual(s) will then act as mediator and meet with the supervisor (ideally, though not necessarily, with the student present) to discuss and resolve the issues such that project work can continue.

In the event that a problem cannot be resolved, then efforts will be made to offer a student an alternative project or supervisor. Note that a change in supervisor is normally only a good resolution if issues are identified and reported early in the dissertation/project report.