The PPS LU research project (2021-24) is funded by Widening Participation Advisory Group (WPAG) as part of Lancaster University’s Access and Participation Plan (APP) contributing to theme 3: Researching the barriers faced by WP students when accessing and succeeding in postgraduate study (PGT and PGR).

The research built on previous postgraduate information, advice and guidance research by Houghton (2003) exploring the notion of ‘Helpers’ and ‘Planners’ used by students seeking to apply for a Part Time PhD. This phased research will focus on students from Low Participation Neighbourhoods (LPN), low income backgrounds or first in family HE entrants; Black Asian and Ethnic Minority students and Disabled students, collectively described here as ‘WP’ students.

• Year 1: 2021-22 Student perspective on Helpers and Planners 2021-22 WPAG PPS LU Report 
• Year 2: 2022-23 Staff perspective on Helpers and Planners 2022_23 WPAG PPS LU Report 
• Year 3: 2023-24 [Build on year 1 and 2 findings, interventions and academic preparedness]

Current outputs

1. Progression to Postgraduate Study at Lancaster University PPS LU 1 Overview final
2. Reviewing provision of Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) in your department PPS LU 2 IAG Considerations
3. Interventions supporting progression to Postgraduate Study PPS LU 3 Interventions
4. SHAPE (Support, Helpers, Actions, Planners, and Experience) PPS LU 4 SHAPE Resource student 
5. Student Preparedness Progression to Postgraduate Study  PPS LU 5 Student Preparedness 
6. Information Advice and Guidance Progression to Postgraduate Study PPS LU 6 IAG Provision 
7. Postgraduate processes supporting Progression to Postgraduate Study PPS LU 7 Postgraduate Processes