The Professional Graduate Diploma by Dissertation

Notes for Guidance
The Professional Graduate Diploma by dissertation is examined to the same level as a masters degree dissertation which is different to the Professional Graduate Diploma by examination which is examined to the lower, honours degree level. In the Notes for Guidance relating to the dissertation in the Study Guide it states that, "Candidates are advised, however, that such work is not easy. Real insight is required." The majority of candidates will find that the examination method is more suitable.

Sample Dissertations
The BCS does not have any sample dissertations available for viewing. For this reason, candidates should enlist the support of an advisor who is familiar with the format expected for submissions at this academic level. (See below). You should also read the Notes for Guidance carefully for advice on a suitable format

Choosing a Subject
The BCS is unable to give the candidate a subject to work on. This is a decision for the candidate alone although s/he might wish to talk through the feasibility of the subject area with an advisor.

Advisors
It is recommended that candidates contact advisors initially for a preliminary discussion on the likely suitability of their proposed dissertation. Candidates who do not have an advisor could contact their local university to see if there is anyone specialising in their field of interest who would be willing to supervise them. No fee will normally be payable for this preliminary discussion. However, if there is then an agreement between the candidate and the advisor that further help will be given, the candidate will normally be expected to pay a fee to the advisor which will be subject to negotiation between the candidate and the advisor.

You should note that advisors can accept no responsibility for the subsequent success or failure of the dissertation.

Procedures for Entry
You will need the Study Guide, the appropriate fee list (UK/Ireland or International) and the Examination Entry Form. A paper copy of this literature is available from our Customer Support team on email: examenq@hq.bcs.org.uk, tel: +44 (0) 1793 417543 or on our web pages http://www.bcs.org/exam

Before entering please consult the appropriate sections in the Study Guide:

• The regulations and notes for guidance for the Professional Graduate Diploma by Dissertation can be found in the Study Guide. The most up-to-date version of the Study Guide is 2001/2002. You should use the Table of Contents to the "Examination Regulations and Notes for Guidance" to ensure you read every section relating to the Professional Graduate Diploma; i.e. Structure of the Examination, Entry, Method of Completion in the "Regulations" and Academic Level, notes on the format in the Notes for Guidance.

To Enter
Please complete the appropriate sections of the examination entry form, with appropriate fee(s), and return to the Exams Office. The dissertation abstract should normally be attached to the entry form. (The Method of Completion section in the Study Guide details what happens next).

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