Cisco Systems Inc. specializes in networking and communications products and services. The company is probably best known for its business routing and switching products, which direct data, voice, and video traffic across networks around the world. However, Cisco also offers storage networking, applications for unified communications, telepresence and collaboration (WebEx), and an array of services from simple product support to complete solutions for data centers and cloud management.
To ensure that IT professionals have the skills and knowledge necessary to support Cisco products and solve customers’ technology problems on many fronts, the Cisco Career Certification program is all-embracing. That is, it begins at the entry level, then advances to associate, professional, and expert levels, and (in some certification areas) caps things off at the architect level.
Each level offers one or more credentials. Obtaining a credential usually involves passing one or more certification exams. Most Cisco exams are delivered by Pearson VUE. For higher-level credentials, candidates must also prove they meet necessary prerequisites. The higher the level of certification, the more credentials and prerequisites one needs to meet those requirements.
Certifications within Cisco’s portfolio include the following credentials:
There are many certifications and paths one can take in Cisco’s career program. That said, its two main paths cover network operation and network design. A typical Cisco networking certification ladder begins with the entry-level CCENT credential, moves up to the CCNA, onto the CCNP and culminates with the CCIE. The design-oriented might instead consider starting with the CCENT, moving up to the CCDA, then the professional-level CCDP, followed by the CCDE, and finish the program with the CCAr.
The Cisco Career Certification program also includes a number of specializations. These certifications acknowledge a professional’s skills in a specific Cisco technology, such as data center application services, voicemail and messaging or rich media. Cisco specializations are organized into two primary categories: one targeting technical specialists and another targeting digital transformation specialists. Between these two categories, there are currently 15 specializations among which IT pros can choose.
The Technical Specialist category includes specializations across six subcategories:
Digital Transformation specialists includes credentials geared to Business Architecture and Customer Success.
Achieving a specialist credential generally requires passing one or two exams. Some credentials also impose prerequisites.
Entry-, associate- and professional-level credentials are valid for three years, CCIE and specialist certifications are valid for two years and the CCAr is valid for five years. To keep certifications current, Cisco professionals need to recertify by passing a recertification test or advancing to a higher level in Cisco’s certification hierarchy.
Cisco has two entry-level credentials: the Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) and the Cisco Certified Technician (CCT). No prerequisites are needed to obtain either the CCENT or CCT credential, and candidates must pass a single test to earn each credential.
CCENT certified professionals install, maintain and troubleshoot small networks or a branch of an enterprise network, and implement basic network security. The CCENT credential is a prerequisite for some associate-level CCNA solution track credentials and the CCDA.
CCTs work onsite at customer locations, diagnosing issues and repairing or replacing network-related equipment. A CCT can choose one of several specialty tracks, which currently includes Data Center and Routing and Switching.
Certification Exams Number of Questions Time to Complete CCENT 100-105 ICND1 45-55 90 minutes CCT Data Center 010-151 DCTECH 65-75 90 minutes CCT Routing & Switching 640-692 RSTECH 60-70 90 minutes
Cisco’s associate-level certifications include the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and the Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA). One must pass one or two certification exams to achieve a CCNA or CCDA credential, depending on the track you choose.
The CCNA recognizes basic skills in installing, supporting, and troubleshooting wired and/or wireless networks. One can choose from several tracks, including Cloud, Collaboration, Cyber Ops, Data Center, Industrial, Routing and Switching, Security, Service Provider and Wireless. The CCNA is a prerequisite for the professional-level CCNP certification. Prerequisites for the CCNA vary depending on the solution track chosen as do the number of required exams. All solution tracks require either one or two exams.
Cisco created the CCDA to identify individuals who can design basic wired and wireless networks, and incorporate security and voice solutions. The CCDA is a prerequisite for the CCDP certification. To obtain the CCDA, candidates must possess either a valid CCENT, CCNA Routing and Switching (or any CCIE certification), and pass a single additional exam.
| Certification | Exams | Number of Questions | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCDA | 200-310 DESGN | 55-65 | 75 minutes |
| CCNA Cloud | 210-451 CLDFND | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 210-455 CLDADM | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNA Collaboration | 210-060 CICD | 55-65 | 75 minutes |
| 210-065 CIVND | 55-65 | 75 minutes | |
| CCNA Cyber Ops | 210-250 SECFND | 55-60 | 90 minutes |
| 210-255 SECOPS | 60-70 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNA Data Center | 200-150 DCICN | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 200-155 DCICT | 65-75 | 120 minutes | |
| CCNA Industrial | 200-601 IMINS2 | 65-75 | 90 minutes |
| CCNA Routing and Switching** | 200-125 CCNA | 60-70 | 90 minutes |
| 100-105 ICND1 | 45-55 | 90 minutes | |
| 200-105 ICND2 | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNA Security | 210-260 IINS | 60-70 | 90 minutes |
| CCNA Service Provider | 640-875 SPNGN1 | 65-75 | 90 minutes |
| 640-878 SPNGN2 | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNA Wireless | 200-355 WIFUND | 60-70 | 90 minutes |
**Candidates for the CCNA Routing and Switching may take test 200-125 OR test 100-105 plus 200-105.
Cisco’s professional-level credentials include two main programs: the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and the Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP). To obtain the CCDP, one must pass three certification exams and possess both the CCDA and CCNA Routing and Switching credentials or any Cisco CCIE or CCDE certification.
All CCNP solution tracks, except Routing and Switching, require candidates to pass four exams. Only three exams are required for the CCNP: Routing and Switching credential. Prerequisites for all CCNP solution tracks include either the lower-level CCNA credential or any CCIE credential. The CCNP: Service Provider credential also accepts the Cisco Certified Internet Professional (CCIP) credential as a prerequisite (which retired in 2012).
The CCNP credential recognizes professionals who plan, deploy, and troubleshoot local networks and wide area networks. The CCNP tracks are the same as those for the CCNA, except for Industrial and Cyber Ops, which are not offered in the CCNP track. The CCNP is recommended to climb up to the next step on the cert ladder – the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert.
The CCDP identifies proficiency in designing and deploying scalable networks and multilayer-switched networks. From the CCDP, you can move on to the Cisco Certified Design Expert.
| Certification | Exams | Number of Questions | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCDP | 300-101 ROUTE | 45-65 | 120 minutes |
| 300-115 SWITCH | 30-40 | 120 minutes | |
| 300-320 ARCH | 60-70 | 75 minutes | |
| CCNP Cloud | 300-460 CLDINF | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 300-465 CLDDES | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-470 CLDAUT | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-475 CLDACI | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNP Collaboration | 300-070 CIPTV1 | 65-75 | 75 minutes |
| 300-075 CIPTV2 | 50-60 | 75 minutes | |
| 300-080 CTCOLLAB | 55-65 | 75 minutes | |
| 300-085 CAPPS | 55-65 | 75 minutes | |
| CCNP Data Center** | 300-175 DCUCI | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 300-165 DCII | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-170 DCVAI | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-160 DCID | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-180 DCIT | 70-80 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNP Routing and Switching | 300-101 ROUTE | 45-65 | 120 minutes |
| 300-115 SWITCH | 30-40 | 120 minutes | |
| 300-135 TSHOOT | 15-25 | 120 minutes | |
| CCNP Security | 300-208 SISAS | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 300-206 SENSS | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-209 SIMOS | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-210 SITCS | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNP Service Provider | 642-883 SPROUTE | 65-75 | 90 minutes |
| 642-885 SPADVROUTE | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| 642-887 SPCORE | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| 642-889 SPEDGE | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNP Wireless | 300-360 WIDESIGN | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 300-365 WIDEPLOY | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-370 WITSHOOT | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-375 WISECURE | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
**CCNP Data Center may take either the 300-160 or 300-180 exam.
Cisco’s expert-level credentials embrace two primary certifications: the coveted Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) and the Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE). Neither certification imposes prerequisites, but one must pass a written test and a rigorous practical test to earn either of these credentials.
Beginning in July 2016, Cisco updated its expert-level exams to include an evolving technologies domain. This new domain targets cloud, network programmability and the IoT, and it accounts for 10 percent of the total test score. Cisco may change the subjects included in this domain to reflect emerging technologies as they reach strong enough commercial interest, potential and presence to make them examworthy. The company describes this mechanism as a way to help future-proof its certifications so that employers may assume that those who hold current credentials are also up to speed on important new networking technologies.
For many network-track professionals, achieving the CCIE is the highlight of their careers. A CCIE has expert technical skills and knowledge of Cisco network products and solutions in one of the CCIE technical tracks, which currently include Collaboration, Data Center, Routing and Switching, Security, Service Provider, and Wireless.
The CCDE identifies experts who design infrastructure solutions for large enterprise environments, which include technological, operational, business and budget aspects of a project.
For persons seeking positions such as network architect or data center architect, a smart move is to acquire the Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr) certification. The CCAr is like the Ph.D. of the Cisco Career Certification program – it’s the highest level of certification that Cisco offers. This credential validates the skills of a senior network infrastructure architect, someone who can plan and design IT infrastructures based on business strategies. Many people consider the CCAr the most difficult tech certification to achieve.
To earn the CCDE certification, you must design a network solution to implement an assigned strategy; then, you must appear before a Cisco-appointed panel to explain and defend that solution.
Cisco maintains a comprehensive list of training and self-study resources. These resources include various forms of online learning, practice exams, learning labs, links to which appear on each certification’s web page. The Cisco Learning Network offers candidates a free basic membership that includes access to test topics, live seminars, IT training videos, study groups, forums, study materials and much more. The subscription-based Cisco Platinum Learning Library provides professionals with on-demand learning and access to more than 400 courses, hands-on vLabs, the support library, and more. Additional training materials are also available from Cisco Press.
This bestselling textbook provides an engaging and user-friendly introduction to the study of language.
Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject, Yule presents information in bite-sized sections, clearly explaining the major concepts in linguistics – from how children learn language to why men and women speak differently, through all the key elements of language. This fifth edition has been revised and updated with new figures and tables, additional topics, and numerous new examples using languages from across the world.To increase student engagement and to foster problem-solving and critical thinking skills, the book includes thirty new tasks. An expanded and revised online study guide provides students with further resources, including answers and tutorials for all tasks, while encouraging lively and proactive learning. This is the most fundamental and easy-to-use introduction to the study of language.
Learn how Infrastructure-as-a-Service company simplified its data center using Cisco’s Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) approach.
Adopting Cisco’s ACI, NetApp experienced:
• Improvements in the density of throughput and cost per port
• Increased productivity of the infrastructure
• Integrated visibility and intelligence
• Agility enablement of the entire application infrastructure
Download this Case Study to learn more.
During their college years, many students take advantage of their school's study abroad program. These types of programs allow students to spend one (or more) semesters in a foreign country, while continuing to take classes.
This is an amazing opportunity to travel to a new place and engage in practical learning, beyond what you'll find in textbooks.
If your study abroad semester is coming up, or if it is something you think you'd like to do in the future, here are ways to make the most out of your time.
Traveling to a different country through your school's travel abroad program can be a great addition to your college years. (iStock)
INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS YOU CAN VISIT THIS SUMMER FOR THE ULTIMATE VACATION
Take time to write down the goals you have before you leave. If writing isn't really your thing, you can also make a vision board to display your goals in photographs.
HOW TO AVOID INTERNATIONAL ATM FEES
Before you go, jot down goals you want to accomplish while you are away. (Andia/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Whether you write down just a few key items, or you have a long list, writing goals early can help remind you of the things you want to accomplish while you are on your trip. Also, these goals are not the only ones you can have. You can always add more to your list during your travels.
Travel documents can take a long time to get prepared, so it's vital to gather them as soon as you can, rather than scrambling at the last minute.
The main documents you'll need are a passport and a visa, depending on the length of your program.
You likely won't be making income while you are studying abroad, so you'll want to save up money beforehand that will have you covered while you're away.
6 AIRLINE TRAVEL TIPS FROM EXPERTS IN THE INDUSTRY
Create a budget for yourself to follow while you are in another country. (iStock)
The sooner you decide you'll be studying abroad, the better, since you'll be able to work extra hours before you leave and start putting money aside.
This will also be an important time to make a budget, so you aren't overspending during the semester. Create a rough budget to stick to before you leave, and then make any adjustments necessary once you get there.
Studying abroad is a great opportunity to learn a new language. You'll get a better grasp of the language once you spend time around people using it, but it will be helpful to begin learning the basics before you go.
If you are heading to a place you've never visited, or spent minimal time in, you'll want to conduct basic research on the country before you leave.
Research on the country you are visiting so you'll know what to expect when you arrive. (iStock)
TRAVELING SOON? 5 SMART TECH STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD
Do research to determine landmarks and sights you want to see while you're abroad and find some information on the laws and proper etiquette in the foreign country.
Once you arrive, get in the habit of writing in a journal at the end of each day. Write down everything you did, what you learned and what you're looking forward to. You'll be thankful you kept a journal to look back on after your trip. Also, take lots of pictures and create a scrapbook of your journey.
If writing really isn't your thing, another option is to create a video diary of your trip, where instead of writing, you take a short clip on your phone or camera each day talking about what you did. You can combine this with pictures and videos of you exploring so you can show everyone back home.
Studying abroad affords you opportunities to meet many new people, both students in your program and locals.
Locals can teach you so much about the country and can also help you learn the language.
Studying abroad can introduce you to many new people you would not have met otherwise. (iStock)
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Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so take advantage of the experience at hand. Visit everything you wanted to visit, spend time fully embracing the culture and learn as much as possible.
While this is easier said than done, take studying abroad as a chance to be extra extroverted and eager to learn.
If you sit back and wait for things to come to you, you're probably not going to have the experience you imagined. Ask questions, be present and enjoy every minute.
The cost of living abroad will inevitably vary from student to student, based upon individual living styles, budgetary habits, personal resources, and the fluctuating currency exchange rates. Taking these factors into account, students may find it difficult to actually estimate expenditures in preparation for a program. Students should be prepared to adapt their standards of living to their surroundings, and approach the experience with a sense of financial responsibility.
Here are some financial tips to remember, in preparation for your time abroad:
Credit/Debit Cards
Contact your bank and credit/debit card companies to let them know you will be abroad (when and where you will be going), so that your withdrawals are not denied or your credit card cancelled. The credit card and/or debit card you plan to use while abroad must be in your name, not your parents'. (Most major lenders will, at the request of the cardholder, provide an additional card in the name of a dependent authorized to use the account.)
ATM Fees
Check with your bank for information about daily/weekly limits on withdrawals, and about fees charged for the use of foreign ATM's. When withdrawing money from an ATM abroad, you will likely be charged a fee at the foreign bank, in addition to your own bank's fee. Ask your bank before you go if they have a partnership bank in the country where you will be living; if so, you might be able to avoid ATM fees.
Foreign Currency
Some places you may be traveling do not always accept credit card as readily as in the U.S. Buy some currency to have when you arrive. You may need money to get from the airport to your accommodation or school, and changing money in airports is often more expensive than at a bank. Communication with your bank prior to departure is important. Check with your financial institution regarding the exchange of currency. It is also helpful to inform your bank of your travel days for leaving and returning to the United States.
Traveler's Checks
Be aware that traveler's checks are becoming increasingly difficult to cash, especially in Europe. They are not highly recommended as a primary or secondary source of cash on most programs.
Flights
Look for student rate flights through companies such as STA and Student Universe. These companies tend to offer cheaper rates for students and other companies may offer cheaper rates for anyone under the age of 26.
Security
Be careful with purses, wallets, and backpacks, as they are easier targets for pickpockets. Do not carry all of your money in one place, and if possible, have a secure place to store these items in your dormitory or host family, while you are not intending to use them.
Budget
Always carry your student ID and International Student Identity Card with you, as many places offer students discounts or even free admission. Keep an eye out for student rates, and remember it never hurts to ask! Try to avoid eating out during the week; cooking for yourself and/or eating with your host family will save a lot of money for weekends, travel, souvenirs, etc.
Travel
When you arrive, consider buying a long-term bus or train pass; a monthly or multiple trip pass is likely a better value than daily passes. Make a budget for travel in addition to your weekly expense budget. Be aware of the current exchange rates in the countries you plan to travel to- this can greatly affect your travel budget.
Written by the Priests and Pastoral Associates of Priests for Life
This study guide is based on the Vatican Translation of Humanae Vitae
Table of Contents:
Introduction to the Study Guide
A Summary of Section II. Doctrinal Principles
Summary of Section III. Pastoral Directives
Essay: Finding Our Way Back Home
Essay: Life, Purity and Humanae Vitae
Essay: The Transmission of Life -- On Whose Terms?
The Contraception of Grief: A Personal Testimony
A Study Guide to Humanae Vitae
Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director, Priests for Life
Forty years is not a long time in Church history. Indeed, we are still living in the moment of Humanae Vitae (issued on July 25, 1968), and of the challenge it presents to the world.
Humanae Vitae does not identify the key problem of our day in the realm of sex or birth or "the pill," but rather in the myth that we can be God. Pope Paul writes at the beginning of the document, "But the most remarkable development of all is to be seen in man's stupendous progress in the domination and rational organization of the forces of nature to the point that he is endeavoring to extend this control over every aspect of his own life -- over his body, over his mind and emotions, over his social life, and even over the laws that regulate the transmission of life” (n.2).
The Pope here is painting a wider vision of the problem. We think everything belongs to us, but the reality is that we belong to God. "Humanae Vitae" means "Of human life." Human life came from God, belongs to God, and goes back to God. "You are not your own," St. Paul declares. "You have been bought, and at a price" (1 Cor. 6:19-20). Sex and having children are aspects of a whole cluster of realities that make up our lives and activities. We suffer from the illusion that all of these activities belong to us. “This is my life, my body, my choice.
The problem we face is not that our society is obsessed with sex. Rather, it is afraid of it-- afraid of the total reality and power of what it represents, where it comes from, and where it leads. Sex properly understood requires that we acknowledge God who made it. More than that, sex can never be separated from its purpose: to insert us into this immense, powerful movement of life and love that started when God said "Let there be light" (Genesis 1:3) and culminates when the Spirit and the Bride say "Come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:17).
Sexual activity means so much that it is wrong to diminish its message or deny its full reality: it belongs in the context of committed love (sealed by marriage) and openness to life precisely because this is the only context great enough to hold its message and reflect the greater reality to which the gift of sexuality points us and to which it commits us.
This is a reality that is bigger than all of us. It is the self-giving which starts in the Trinity, and is revealed in a startling way on the Cross, and then challenges each of us in our daily interaction with others, with God, and with our own eternal destiny. It is so real and so big that it is scary. That's why so many today are afraid of the full reality and meaning of sex. That's why Pope Paul VI wrote Humanae Vitae.
That is also why our Priests for Life pastoral team wrote this Study Guide. We have also established a special website, www.HumanaeVitae40.com, to promote the teachings of this document. It is our daily prayer that this effort will lead many believers to understand, embrace, and proclaim the beautiful truth of human life.
INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY GUIDE
James J. Pinto, Jr., M.E.V.
Editor: A Study Guide to Humanae Vitae
This Study Guide will be most effective if one first thoroughly familiarizes himself with its content and layout. Review the table of contents and the location of each section listed. The Study Guide is to be used by an individual or group as a side by side companion with the text of Humanae Vitae included in this booklet. The three Essays offer unique insight with questions for further discussion. The Contraception of Grief: A Personal Testimony presents a riveting and practical witness to why Humanae Vitae is the wholesome truth.
The Glossary assists the reader in clarifying some key terms contained in the Encyclical. Glossary terms are listed by the number/paragraph in which they first appear. The terms will be marked with an *asterisk in the Humanae Vitae text as a note to the reader that the term is contained in the Glossary.
After practicing Fr. Pavone’s Foreword one should read the Summary of the Introduction and Section I, followed by the practicing of the Introduction and Section I. of Humanae Vitae itself. After completing the Introduction and Section I. of Humanae Vitae; the reader answers the series of questions below the Summary of the Introduction and Section I. The sequence followed for the Introduction and Section I is repeated for each following section: practicing the Study Guide Section Summary, practicing of the corresponding Encyclical section itself and returning to the Study Guide questions for that particular section. The questions are meant to refer the reader back to particular paragraphs/numbers (n.or n.n.) of that section where he/she will find the answers. One may work on the answers to these questions while practicing the paragraph/number, or, wait until he/she has read the entire section and then complete the answers. Continual returning to the text of the encyclical helps emphasize that the document itself is the primary source of instruction and the basis for individual and group applications.
The three Essays have several questions at their conclusion to help foster reflection and discussion. A personal witness to the truth and wisdom of Humanae Vitae is presented in The Contraception of Grief: A Personal Testimony.
This Study Guide is meant to be a “springboard” to delve more deeply into Humanae Vitae and its themes, in order to stimulate reflection, and a lifestyle of holiness.
For those considering the possibility of facilitating a study group, this study guide lends itself to a discussion study group method of learning. While a leader/facilitator encourages the group and keeps it “on track”, it is the individual sharing and group dynamic that contribute most to the learning process. The facilitator is not a lecturer, neither is he there to provide all the answers. The facilitator seeks to shepherd the group learning process and does everything possible to solicit their contributions. Members interact and learn from everyone, including the facilitator. A Facilitator’s Guide is available through Priests for Life at www.HumanaeVitae40.com. The Facilitator’s Guide seeks to assist you in leading a group and lays out suggested study sessions.
It is our hope, that on the fortieth anniversary of Humanae Vitae, this study guide will assist in promoting the Church’s clear and authoritative word on transmitting human life. May all who hear this true, prophetic and lovely word be assured that: the Church has always issued appropriate documents on the nature of marriage, the correct use of conjugal rights, and the duties of spouses. These documents have been more copious in accurate times. (n.4)
If you're applying for postgraduate research at Sheffield, you'll find all the key information on this page. Please read it before you complete your application.
There are three ways you can undertake postgraduate/doctoral research at the University:
Find out more about these different options:
You can search for supervisors, projects and Centres for Doctoral Training on our Find A PhD page. If you want to research your own idea, you should contact the relevant academic department before you submit a formal application, to check that they have an appropriately-qualified supervisor in the area you'd like to study.
PhD projects normally last between 3 and 4 years for full-time PhDs and 6 and 8 years for part-time PhDs, depending on the source of funding and scope of the research project. This is the period during which tuition fees are payable. You can find more information about PhD fees and fee-paying periods on our Fees webpage:
Information about academic entry requirements is available from the department in which your research is based. Entry requirements vary depending on what you study – some subjects require a masters degree, others ask for a good undergraduate degree (a 2:1 or a First). Links to departmental webpages are provided on the Find A PhD page.
Our English language requirements for postgraduate courses are available on our English Language Requirements webpage:
English language requirements for postgraduate courses
A full list of our formal policies, including our Student Admissions Policy, is available on our Policies webpages:
You can apply for postgraduate research using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. You can find information about how to do this, and a link to the form, on our How To Apply page:
Information about the documents you should include to support your application, and how to supply these, is provided in our supporting documents guidance:
You may be asked to provide a research proposal as part of your application. Please check the PhD pages of the relevant academic department for details of whether you need to do this and what you should include. General guidance on how to write a research proposal has been developed by our 301 Academic Skills Centre:
How to write a research proposal
If you have a disability, we would encourage you to indicate this in your online application so that we can assess any support needs you might have. We do this separately from our academic assessment of your application. For more information about the process and the support available, see our Disabled Applicants webpage:
The standard application deadlines for students intending to start in the autumn (September/October) are provided on our key dates and deadlines page. We recommend that these students apply early in the year (January/February).
Key dates and deadlines for postgraduate courses
Although we advise students to start in September/October, it's often possible to start postgraduate research at any point in the year. You can state your preferred start date in your application, although this will need to be confirmed by the academic department.
You should leave yourself plenty of time between applying and your start date to make arrangements to come to Sheffield if we make you an offer, particularly if you're an International applicant and will need to arrange a student visa.
You can find out what happens after you've submitted your application on our After You Apply webpage. When we've made a decision on your application we'll send you an email to tell you what that decision is, and what you need to do next:
If you'll need a visa to study in the UK, you can find more information about when and how we'll arrange your CAS on our CAS Application webpages:
Browse our frequently asked questions, or ask a question of your own:
Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared on ByDanJohnson.com.
FAA proposed regulation has powerfully captured the attention of many pilots. Pilots have tons of questions. We have some answers. Everyone has a lot to read.
Overall, FAA’s Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) regulation proposal has been warmly received as it opens the door to more capable aircraft that a sport pilot can fly. That’s good, but the document has problems, too. Following are four examples.
MOSAIC’s language invigorated many readers when the Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) expressed support for a sport pilot certificate holder to fly at night, with proper training and a logbook endorsement. Yet the proposal refers to other FAA regulations requiring BasicMed or an AvMed. If you must have a medical, you are not exercising the central privilege of a sport pilot certificate. Why suggest that a sport pilot can do things that are blocked by other regulations? This conflict should be resolved.
Another opportunity gap involves aerial work. We’re pleased the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association (LAMA’s) request was included, but it requires a commercial certificate to fly for compensation, and this requirement eliminates powered parachutes and weight shift trikes, for which no commercial certificate is available. This is discriminatory and should be fixed.
Maintenance experts have lots of questions; see the video at bottom.
ASTM standards writers raised questions about the value of noise regulations included for no present gain, “requiring solutions before the problem exists.” This appears to have political motivations.
You may find other aspects of MOSAIC that urge you to comment. If so, you may find the following helpful.
I can’t imagine anyone genuinely enjoys practicing MOSAIC. The NPRM encompasses many pages in dense language; it’s tedious to review.
It just got a lot easier, thanks to Roy Beisswenger. [Beisswenger is founder and proprietor of Easy Flight]
Beginning in 2014—well before MOSAIC existed—Beisswenger and I spent years advocating on behalf of the LSA industry and the pilots that fly those light aircraft to the FAA. Beisswenger was the lead author on several white papers LAMA submitted to support each of its requests. They went over so well with the FAA that they are mentioned in the footnotes.
As you will see in the attached PDF study guide, Beisswenger has done a monster amount of work in reformatting the documents so that you can walk through it and find what you want much easier.
Beisswenger also addressed specific comments I had, whereupon practicing one section, the FAA refers to another, and then to another. Before long, you forget where you started and struggle to retrace your steps. You also need internet access to study the FARs published outside the NPRM. The continuous back-and-forth makes studying the document slow, yet the clock is ticking on public comments. At this writing we have just over 60 days left.
Reviewing the NPRM is far easier with this PDF study guide because of the bookmarks, links, and backlinks, plus already-highlighted text which shows what current FARs could be changed plus some lightly-colored text that illustrates where the FAA will insert new language.
MOSAIC will still take a significant effort to review carefully, but Beisswenger made the task much easier and faster.
If you open the study guide with Adobe Acrobat on almost any device or computer—or if you use Preview on Apple laptops/desktops—you will gain access to the bookmarks (look for a small icon in the upper right of a tablet or a smart phone; in Preview, show the Table of Contents. On both, use the triangles to drop down further and further). Bookmarks are your navigation friend, helping you jump to places of interest or study.
Beisswenger even embedded back buttons on some pages when reviewing the FARs. This helps readers not get lost in their investigations.
Of course, within Acrobat (or Preview), you can search for specific text.
I observe for you that such ease of review was not possible when the SP/LSA regulation was released in 2004 (three years before the iPhone was introduced).
When reviewing MOSAIC I recommend you follow aspects of particular interest to you rather than try to absorb the whole thing.
However deep you go, Beisswenger made it much easier.
When you are ready to comment to FAA, use this link. We’ll have more advice on commenting as soon as possible but here’s some basic tips:
To see MOSAIC comments already made, use this link.
John Zimmerman, president of Sporty’s, thought our conversation in this edition of the “Pilot’s Discretion” podcast conveyed a lot of good information (audio—42 minutes). John was an excellent interviewer.
