Whether you are a Postgraduate Taught or Postgraduate Research student, there are lots of exciting opportunities for you to get involved in during your time at the University of Reading. From societies and events, to study and research support and careers advice, our teams are here to support you throughout your time at the University of Reading.
We're put together a helpful summary of the different things you might need during your Postgraduate studies, from starting your course to preparing for your next steps after university:
Supporting your Postgraduate studies:
All undergraduate and postgraduate taught students are assigned an Academic Tutor—an academic staff member in your School or Department who serves as your key contact throughout your degree. Academic Tutors work in partnership with students and the University’s support services to enhance your academic, personal and professional development. You can find out more about your Academic Tutors, and how to make the most out of your academic tutor meetings, on Essentials.
You should meet with your Academic Tutor at least three times a year to discuss your progress.
Masters study and dissertation support with Study Advice – The Study Advice Team are here to help you develop the skills to achieve the academic success you deserve. Check out their Kickstart your Masters dissertation events and webinars series, specifically designed to help Masters students get started with researching, planning and writing their dissertations.
Studying as a mature student LibGuide - The studying a Mature Student LibGuide is filled with advice for students who are returning to study and information to help you feel prepared for your lectures, seminars and assignments. At the start of the Academic Year the Study Advice Team also host a Thriving as a mature student webinar, you can access the recording of this session online.
Make the most of the Library - The Library offers a variety of study spaces and a huge range of digital and print resources. Each subject has an Academic Liaison Librarian to guide you to the best resources to support your studies.
Keep fit for your doctoral studies discussion group - The 'Keep fit for your doctoral studies' discussion group takes place online on Tuesdays from 11:00–12:00. These sessions are run by Dr Alicia Peña Bizama, from the University of Reading's Student Wellbeing Service. The sessions cover issues pertinent to your doctoral research such as: managing academic pressure, increasing concentration and motivation, managing procrastination and perfectionism. Booking is not required and attendance will not count towards your annual RRDP training requirement. You can access the discussion group link via the "Keep fit for your studies" module on the Doctoral and Researcher College's Blackboard site. Please contact Dr Alicia Pena Bizama (m.a.penabizama@reading.ac.uk) for further information.
The Disability Advisory Service (DAS) provides information, advice and guidance to current students and applicants who register with our service due to a disability, specific learning difference, long term medical or mental health condition.
We encourage students to register with DAS as early as possible so we are aware of your needs so that necessary support adjustments can be arranged for you. Please register with DAS via RISIS if you have not done so already.
For more information about DAS, and the advice and support available to you, check out Essentials, or you can email disability@reading.ac.uk with any questions you may have.
Throughout your time at university there are plenty of opportunities to make friends and connect with others. Here are some examples:
Student events – attending social events are a great way to connect with new people, and take time out from your studies and invest in your wellbeing. Our weekly wellbeing events webpage highlights weekly free events taking place on and off campus during semester time. You can also check out the Me@Reading events portal for the full calendar of one-off and regular student events taking place on campus and within the local community.
Joining societies – societies are a great way to stay active and connect with people with similar interests. There are loads of different societies that you can get involved with, check out the Reading Students’ Union website for an A-Z of all the societies at the university.
Mature Student Society - Reading Students' Union run a Mature Student Network, where students are free to attend and meet other students in similar circumstances. This is also an opportunity to bring up issues to the Mature Student Part-Time Officer.
There is also a Mature Student Society on campus. See how you can get involved by visiting the Mature Students Society webpage.
Looking after yourself at university - our Student Wellbeing teams are here to support you throughout your time at university. Head to our Mental Health and Wellbeing webpages to find out about the support available to you, as well as weekly wellbeing events and self-help guides to help you to take time to invest in your wellbeing.
Talk to someone day or night – our Student Wellbeing Teams are here to help you navigate any problems or worries you experience as a student. As a University of Reading student you also have access to the 24hr Student Support Helpline and Wisdom app, where you can call or live chat with trained professionals for free, confidential, in-the-moment advice 24hrs a day, 365 days a year.
Life Tools - the Life Tools programme is here to support you throughout your studies, with mental health mini-series, talks on study specific topics such as procrastination and getting into the learners mindset, as well as mindfulness, sleep and confidence. Throughout your time at the University of Reading Life Tools is here to help you navigate university life, with talks in person, online and available on demand.
Getting the most of your money at university - Balancing a budget at university can be challenging. The University of Reading and Reading Students’ Union (Reading SU) have put together a helpful guide to help you get the most out of your student budget.
Money Matters webpages - our Money Matters webpages on Essentials are filled with advice and support, information about bursaries and scholarships, tuition fees, and contact information for the Student Financial Support Team.
Get confident with your finances - as a University of Reading student you have free access to the online learning platform Blackbullion. Blackbullion offers courses and advice to help you understand and better manage your finances while at University. Create an account and get started with the Money Ready Course.
Talk to someone about your money worries - As a University of Reading student you have access to financial advice and support throughout your time at university. The University’s Student Financial Support Team are able to advise you on how best to manage your money at university based on your personal circumstances. Book an appointment online, or head to Essentials for more information. Reading Students' Union specialist money advisers are trained and experienced in offering free, confidential, independent advice and information on all money related matters. Complete the online form to access support from the Reading SU Money Advice Team.
Building your careers experience - Head to the Careers webpages on Essentials to find out about about how to book an appointment with a careers advisor, gaining experience through part-time work and internship schemes, completing your RED Award, volunteering opportunities, and upcoming careers events. The service also offers dedicated one-to-one advice sessions, recruitment events, and other career development workshops specifically for doctoral students, which you can access through the Doctoral and Researcher College.
Careers support for Postgraduate Taught Students - The Careers Team are here to support allPostgraduate taught students. We support you alongside your degree, as you develop your knowledge in your chose area of study.
Your course may have a vocational focus or link to a professional qualification. It may be the case that you are already working towards a career in a specific field. Or, you may feel completely unsure about what to do next. It doesn’t matter where you are at, we are here to help and support you on your journey. Check out the Postgraduate Careers Support webpage for more information about the support available to you.
Adjusting to life beyond university – check out wellbeing video playlist for advice from fellow University of Reading students on preparing for life after university.
Alumni careers support – Our Careers Team are here to help you navigate life after graduation. Career support is available for an additional 2 years after your course ends. Head to the alumni careers support webpages to find out how to book an appointment with a careers consultant, upcoming alumni webinars and events, and resources.
Once Reading, always Reading – As you complete your studies and move onto the next stage of your journey, we are proud to welcome you to into a vibrant global community of over 300,000 Reading alumni in more than 150 countries. As a University of Reading alumni you’ll have access to a number of benefits, including exclusive alumni events, opportunities and discounts. Stay connected with your alumni community by making sure that your details are up to date.