Hi there,

I graduated lasted year with a 2.2 masters degree in analytical chemistry with a year and a half in research placements. I was always on track for a 2.1 /1 so i was rather disappointed with the result but I put this behind me and got a job in a lab soon after my graduation.

I have been here for about 8 months now and am wanting to move on and was looking further into potential PhD opportunities in the UK. I have spent a bit of time looking through research projects and several seek a graduate with at least a 2.1 (not sure if an honors or masters).

I was wondering what peoples opinions were of 2.2 graduates looking for PhDs and any advice / relevant experience they have had for someone looking to get a PhD.

Thanks

Steven

It's possible to get on a PhD with a 2.2 but as you're competing with other graduates with 2.1s, 1st and masters it does make it that much harder. Since you have been working in a lab, that helps a lot and if you know the academic that you are applying to work under that helps massively as well.

I think you can apply for PhDs and see what happens.

I agree with TreeofLife. Just go for it.

I would guess your potential supervisor would probably care more about your lab/research experience than about your undergraduate exam results, especially if it's very relevant to the project you're applying for.

However, I think a 2:2 can sometimes be a problem in terms of eligibility for funding; some studentships have strict criteria and I'm not sure how flexible the institution would be able or willing to be (although you have nothing to lose by asking).

If it's a problem, you could consider doing an MSc first (I'm assuming the 2:2 was for an undergraduate 'Masters' like an MSci/MChem?). Or is there any chance your current employer would sponsor you to do a PhD?

Thanks for the replies.

Ephiny - it was a MSci i obtained and i have been thinking about a MSc but not looked into it to much, was looking into PhDs more. I don't believe there is an opportunity for a PhD with my current employer, they are rather small and there research centers are in the USA.

I'll keep looking into potential PhDs and see what i can get.

I got a 2:2 in my undergraduate, did a masters and redeemed myself with a distinction, did my PhD and now doing my postdoc in a prestigious top 10 university. So yes, you most definitely can!