Dr Estelle M. Phillips is an independent educational consultant. She specializes in giving advice on appropriate provision for research students, and in conducting training for doctoral students and supervisors.Professor Derek S. Pugh is Emeritus Professor of International Management of the Open University Business School. He has considerable experience in the design of doctoral programmes and the successful supervision of PhD students.

Reviews from 1st and 2nd Editions include: "A welcome revision to what has always been a popular book amongst intending Ph.D students." - "Phoenix". "Phillips and Pugh's book has, since its original publication in 1987, become the undisputed bible for doctoral students." - "Nursing Times". "Warmly recommended as a bed-side companion, both to those hoping to get a Ph.D and to those who have the responsibility of guiding them, often with very little support themselves" - "Higher Education Review". "This is an excellent book. Its style is racy and clear...an impressive array of information, useful advice and comment gleaned from the authors' systematic study and experience over many years...should be required reading not only for those contemplating doctoral study but also for all supervisors, new and experienced." - "Higher Education". This is a handbook and survival manual for Ph.D students, providing a practical, realistic understanding of the processes of doing research for a doctorate. It discusses many important issues often neglected, such as time management, and how to overcome the difficulties of communicating with supervisors; and considers the particular problems of groups, such as women, part-time and overseas students. The book also provides practical insights for supervisors, and assists senior academic administrators by examining the responsibilities that universities have for providing an adequate overall service for research students. This 3rd edition has been extensively revised and updated throughout with new material added on information and communication technology, publishing, teaching and working towards a Ph.D in a practice based discipline. Additional material has also been provided for supervisors with new sections on the outcomes of good supervision and on how to examine.