Welcome Resources
Source: https://warwick.ac.uk/services/dc/phdlife/welcome/ Parent: https://warwick.ac.uk/services/dc/schols_fund/staff_guidance/finance/
Welcome to the University of Warwick!
Starting your PhD journey
The start of your PhD journey is an exciting time, so in order to make yours as smooth as possible, we have compiled some vital information for you below. Just click through the tabs to learn more – from essential information, to an overview of different campus services, to welcome events designed specifically for postgraduate researchers.
Any questions?
If you have a question about your PhD that you have not been able to find an answer to, please reach out to us.
Postgraduate Courses and Applications
PGR EventsEssentialsGood to knowThe Doctoral College
PGR Events
There's a range of welcome events for new postgraduate researchers this year - by the Doctoral College, by the university as a whole, and by individual departments.
Keep an eye out for our spring term welcome walks, more information to follow.
Welcome to Warwick
Further welcome resources can be found at the university-wide Welcome to Warwick pages which among other things feature information on arriving at Warwick, enrolment, IT resources and further welcome events.
All students, including postgraduate research students, are invited to attend Welcome Week, which runs from Monday 25th September - Sunday 1st October.
Departmental events
Individual departments often host welcome events as well. Check your department website to find out what they have planned.
Check out the Faculty of Arts calendar, Faculty of Social Sciences calendar and Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine news and events as well.
Researcher Development
The Researcher Development programme is provided by the Doctoral College to help you get the best out of your time at Warwick and the best out of yourself. The programme covers all disciplines and stages of research, including writing, research methods, productivity & skills, PhD in second language series, wellbeing and support for your career. Join our RDO Teams channel, where we also publicise any research related events that we hear about.
Essentials
Campus map
Whether you are trying to get from Gibbet Hill to Westwood, the Sports Centre to the Arts Centre, or just find your Supervisor's office, the online campus map can guide you.
A 360° virtual tour of the campus can also be found here.
Getting your ID card
A must have for getting round campus, as many buildings have card-access doors. Also important for taking advantage of student discounts off-campus!
You can collect your card from Senate House on the main campus.
Your ITS account
To access Warwick's computing facilities, you need an ITS account. Guidance is provided for registering and using your account. Make sure to check your university email daily so you don't miss anything important. You can also get the MyWarwick app for your phone.
Your account also gives you access to MS Teams. Make sure to activate notifications for any channels you're in.
Meeting your supervisors
You'll have been in contact with your supervisor(s) during your application and some of you may have had the chance to meet them in person before starting. It's a good idea to arrange a meeting with your supervisor(s) once you've officially started so that you can start building a relationship with them.
Finding accommodation
If you're new to the area, you might want help finding accommodation.
Warwick Accommodation offers a range of on- and off-campus options, including provisions specific for postgraduates.
There is also a large private rental market across Coventry, Kenilworth, and Leamington Spa to suit a range of budgets/needs. Useful starting points are SpareRoom, RightMove, and Zoopla.
University Welcome Week
Alongside the Welcome events we offer as the Doctoral College, the university offers a huge range of events to help you settle into life here.
Extensive induction guidance can be found on the Welcome to Warwick pages, including details of Welcome Week events and information for postgraduates.
Don't forget that you're department will probably run some welcome events too!
International PGRs
As an international PGR, there are some additional things to take care of upon arrival. Most queries can be solved by the Immigration and Compliance team.
If you're on a student visa, in anticipation of your arrival you should read this page. In particular, guidance about travelling to the UK, collecting your BRP card, and registering with the police.
As part of your visa application, you may have paid the NHS Immigration Health Surcharge. Once you arrive, don't forget to register with a doctor's surgery. There is a health centre on campus and doctor's surgeries can be found across the local area.
Disability Services
Warwick offers wide ranging provisions for those with disabilities. From disclosing a disability, through to discussing and agreeing recommendations for support, our Disability Services Team is here to advise and provide assistance throughout your academic journey.
Good to know
Wellbeing Support Services
Wellbeing Support Services offer access to counselling, advice and support, a wide range of self-help resources, a Wellbeing Masterclass specifically for postgraduate researchers, and more.
Students' Union
The Students’ Union (SU) provides representation, social activities and support to ensure the best experience possible for every Warwick student.
The Library
The Library has a dedicated PG team, running many activities and events including weekly networking sessions. Dedicated working spaces on campus for Researchers including the The Postgrad Hub, The Wolfson Research Exchange (or REx) and The Teaching Grid.
PhD Networks
It's important to make connections with other PGRs during your doctoral studies. Warwick boasts a range of networks open to PGRs from across the university.
Sports & Wellness Hub
University of Warwick's Sports & Wellness Hub offers a full gym, climbing centre, squash courts, a swimming pool, and more.
Warwick Arts Centre
Warwick Arts Centre is one of the biggest arts venues outside of London. Located right in the middle of campus, it plays a central role in university life.
Global Connections Community
Global Connections offers an informal online community and in-person socials where students can come together to mix with others through simple activities, games, or conversations.
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Eating and drinking on campus
Find out more about places to eat and drink on campus, including opening times and current food and drink offers.
Exploring the area
Whether you're interested in Shakespeare, bustling nightlife, or hiking in the countryside, the local area has a lot to offer.
The Doctoral College
The Doctoral College looks after all postgraduate researchers (PGRs) at the University of Warwick. We sit above your department and faculty as part of the university's central management. We processed your application and we'll be with you from the day you arrive all the way through to your submission, Viva, and corrections. Some of our team may even be stewarding your graduation ceremony. This tab gives a flavour of the services we offer to you.
Funding and scholarships
Find out more about funding and scholarships, information about alternative ways to support your studies, as well as guidance around annual, parental, or sick leave.
PhD Life
Our 'PhD Life' section provides information about all the activities and opportunities open to Warwick PGRs, including, our PGR Networks, guidance on teaching, and the university Library.
Our PGR Calendar is a repository of all events for PGRs.
Researcher Development Online
Supporting you with skills training and professional development opportunities, Researcher Development Online offers a range of workshops for all stages of the PhD journey.
Supervision and progression
Learn more about your 1st year Upgrade, your Annual Review, and that all important relationship with your supervisor.
You can also find out about your entitlement to pastoral support as a PGR.
Submission
These important final weeks and months towards the end of your PhD probably seem a long way off right now but will come around quicker than you imagine. We provide all the guidance you need to ensure your submitted thesis fits the requirements, for setting up your viva, and for doing corrections and revisions.
Contacting us
Email:
You can also contact us via our Contact and Feedback Form.
Don't forget to follow us on X to stay up to date on all things PGR! You can keep up to date with our news through our monthly newsletter sent directly to your Inbox and found here.
Return to the PhD Life root page.