This workshop is principally designed for staff having limited experience of conducting research degree examinations, although may also be of interest to more experienced practitioners. The key aims of the workshop are:

• to consider key aspects of University regulations relating to the conduct of research degree examinations
• to explore a range of issues relating to viva examination practice
• to explore good practice in conducting successful research degree examinations

Current University procedures for most research degree examinations require the internal examiner to also fulfil many of the functions previously adopted by an independent Chair – essentially, to ensure fair and proper conduct of the examination in accordance with the Regulations. The workshop explores how internal examiners might reconcile the various aspects of the role.

Through a series of case studies and discussion, participants will consider how the internal examiner needs to manage the other stakeholders in the process (other examiners, the candidate, supervisors if present) so as to ensure a high-quality experience for all concerned. The workshop will expose suggested aspects of good practice in the conduct of research degree examinations – before, during and after the viva itself. Having completed this workshop, participants will:

• be aware of the key elements of University regulations and procedures relating to the internal examiner’s role
• have begun to develop strategies for combining the role of examiner and that of “de facto chair”
• have ideas on how to manage other stakeholders and potentially difficult situations in research degree examinations
• understand elements of suggested good practice prior to, during and following the viva