The University is committed to ensuring that students are provided with the appropriate information and support during the initial registration period.  Through the Welcome and Registration website, students can view the registration process for general enrolment, finance, and find information on accommodation.  Students can also access specific information and checklists, which signpost students to the relevant Schools to complete the registration and induction process.

The Thomas J. Moran Graduate School  offers a comprehensive induction programme for NI, GB, EU, and international postgraduate research students, including activities during University Welcome Week and dedicated sessions in October and February. These sessions provide orientation, practical advice, and opportunities for students to connect with peers and build a sense of community. Support is also available year-round through on-demand videos and online resources to accommodate students who register outside the main induction periods.

As part of the University-wide induction sessions, students are introduced to this Code of Practice for Research Degree Programmes, the Study Regulations for Research Degree Programmes and the Regulations for Students.  As such, students are briefed on the regulations, processes and practices regarding:

1. Student registration (Study Regulations for Research Degree Programmes, regulation 2)‌.
2. External students and students working away from Queen’s (Study Regulations for Research Degree Programmes, regulation 3).
3. Periods of study for research degree programmes, including the minimum, normal and maximum periods of study (Study Regulations for Research Degree Programmes, regulation 4), and how to request, in light of extenuating circumstances, an extended period of study and thesis submission date using the RDP Exception Request - Registration and Thesis Submission Form (Microsoft Word). 
4. Temporary withdrawal (Regulations for Students,1.20), including how to request, in light of extenuating circumstances, an extended period of temporary withdrawal using the RDP Exception Request - Temporary Withdrawal Form (Microsoft Word).  
5. Progress, including supervision, regular progress monitoring, and Annual Progress Review (Study Regulations for Research Degree Programmes, regulation 5).
6. Assessment, including the requirements for the research degree programme awards, and the assessment/examination process (Study Regulations for Research Degree Programmes, regulation 6).
7. The Academic Appeal Regulations (Research Degree Programmes) procedure.

In addition to specific University induction programmes run by the Thomas J. Moran Graduate School, School induction programmes provide a range of information including information relating to School facilities, research support, and School health and safety procedures.  Schools also facilitate an initial meeting with the supervisory team, where the student and supervisors agree on plans for the research degree programme.

Ongoing training opportunities are available through the Thomas J. Moran Graduate School, and the Student Gateway provides students with a wide range of links to sources of information and advice on all aspects of student life, including access to support services, financial advice, and careers advice. (See also Useful Contacts).