I am sorry I haven't had time to check how this discussion is progressing.

Devoichitsa, thanks for the information.

Sleepyhead, I am in the South West so I can consider Birmingham Uni even though, I would rather stay where I am because the research team in IR is fantastic.

Joyce, I agree with your sentiments. Doing the PhD and completing it successfully will put me where I have always wanted to be. It has been a long road getting here considering that I am now doing my second Masters, my family are used to my never ending academic journey. It would be great to finally arrive at a destination point.

What a great forum. I am 42 year old doing a one year MSc in IR. I hope to go on to the M/Phil this Oct 08.

I am actually looking to go for academic posts in the developing world if I can't get any joy in the UK. After all, my youngest will be at University by the time I complete my PhD.

Does anyone know if coming from a secondary teaching background can help an oldie like me to secure some lecturing experience. I am one of those PGCE qualified who never taught but had to make do with supply teaching because there were no jobs in my part of the UK. I eventually had to accept defeat because I couldn't re-locate since my children are in exam years - sixth form and GCSE. Hence the MSc.

PS: Does anyone know where an oldie like me can get funding. I have already got a clear thesis idea and a rough first phase plan of action.