The Thomas J. Moran Graduate School enables students to access transferable and employability skills training and development opportunities through the Postgraduate Development Programme (PGDP),  which maps onto the skills areas outlined in the national Researcher Development Framework.  The PGDP programme includes training courses, online learning, personal effectiveness programmes, developmental activity, peer-led seminars and one to one consultancy and advice. Students can meet with the Thomas J. Moran Graduate School team to discuss opportunities to participate in programmes.

The Thomas J. Moran Graduate School supports students and academic staff in relation to Postgraduate Researcher Development Planning. Students in the first year of their Research Degree Programme (ideally within the first two months of registration) should plan their initial development aims and objectives.  Personal Development Planning should be carried out in conjunction with the student’s supervisory team, to agree the training and development requirements that need to be fulfilled in relation to their Research Degree Programme.  Students then take responsibility for undertaking the relevant development activity and recording the completion of aims and objectives on their Postgraduate Researcher Development Plan and QSIS record.  Personal Development Plans should be reviewed and updated on a regular basis with the supervisory team, and discussed during Annual Progress Reviews.

The Academic English Service offers tailored support to international postgraduate research students for whom English is an additional or second language, helping them to strengthen their academic writing and communication skills. Delivered by specialist tutors, the service includes workshops, one-to-one consultations, and self-access resources covering areas such as thesis writing, clarity of expression, and oral communication for academic contexts. Support is available throughout the academic year and is designed to meet the needs of students at different stages of their research journey.

In addition, the service provides guidance on adapting to UK academic culture, including expectations around criticality, argument structure, referencing, and academic integrity. This support helps students build the confidence and skills needed to communicate effectively and meet the standards of UK higher education.

Whilst opportunities for skills development are integrated in the Research Degree Programmes, Schools may provide additional subject-specific training.  This may include formal training courses or research methods modules, which students may be, required to complete as part of the formal training requirements.  For example, research students may enrol on up to two postgraduate taught modules for training purposes, subject to School approval.  Students should also be made aware of training opportunities, which may be delivered, by Research Councils or other Professional Bodies.  Subject to available funding and through agreement with the student’s supervisor, Schools should ensure that students have a reasonable opportunity to attend or participate in conferences and seminars which further their research, as well as enhance their professional skills.