While there may be slight differences in the approach, depending on your academic discipline, there are some general guidelines you should consider before applying to a programme.

• Identify a manageable research problem. The best approach to finding a sustainable and manageable research question is to define a gap in the existing body of knowledge within your field of interest. It is important that you define the research question well, once you have identified a problem. A research question that is too broad and ill defined is much harder to sustain over the entire period without losing focus – it will also present a much greater challenge to defend at the Viva stage. Originality is, of course, key to a successful PhD thesis and if you cannot identify a purely original gap in the existing body of knowledge, then consider approaching a problem from a new angle.

• Choose a research topic that you are truly interested in. The research question you select will be your core focus for the next three or more years and it is vital that the topic is able to capture your interest for the duration of the degree programme (and hopefully beyond).

• Find a supervisor or a research team interested in the topic. Having a supervisor who is immersed in the research problem you are aiming to solve is invaluable in the pursuit of a PhD. Someone who is professionally interested in the questions you pose will be more likely able to guide you through your research and point you toward appropriate literature as well as publishing and conference opportunities.

• Decide on whether your interests are better met by a traditional PhD or a professionally oriented doctoral programme. If you perform better in a structured environment that places a greater emphasis on coursework and fieldwork components then a professional doctoral degree may be better suited for what you aim to achieve than a pure research oriented PhD programme. Before deciding what programmes to apply to make sure you consider all the options available to you.

• Narrow down your choice of institution. When considering an institution for your PhD study you should take the following into account:

1. Who would be available as a supervisor
2. What are the research facilities available to you
3. What is the overall reputation of the institution and the department
4. What is the research reputation of the institution and department
5. What are your chances to get in
6. How does the programme fit your research aims and approaches

While it is significant to consider the reputation of the supervisor and the institution, it is paramount that the programme fits with what you are aiming to achieve in your research. If your specific topic involves a substantial amount of interdisciplinary research then try and find a programme that would fulfil this requirement. It is of course tempting to only consider Ivy League institutions if you have the necessary academic background, but the available supervisor, research facilities and the overall fit with your project should be at the core of your programme selection.

• Speak to as many professors, peers and colleagues as possible to refine your topic and to find a suitable programme. Professors that are well established in their fields and careers are often more than happy to discuss your intended proposal with you, give you pointers and sound advice. The more you discuss your topic with others, the more it will help you understand and define the issue for your own clarity. This is particularly important when you are still in the stage of narrowing down the research question you propose to pose.

• Apply to more than one programme, giving yourself a choice of two or three potential programmes that would fulfil your expectations and research requirements. This will provide you with greater flexibility and help you avoid having to rely on only one option.

• Give yourself sufficient time to define your research question, visit any prospective institutions and speak to professors and researchers before you draft your proposal and submit your applications. The more time you have, the more organized you can be in your approach to finding just the right programme for you.

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