The MPhil/PhD are research programmes aimed at those who wish to gain a postgraduate qualification by conducting supervised independent primary research in education which is written up into a thesis. Each programme of study is run the same way, with variations in depth and originality of research between MPhil and PhD. This is reflected in the length of study and thesis: for example, a part-time PhD typically takes 5-6 years to produce an 80,000 word thesis. Full-time study usually takes about half the time of part-time study. The MPhil/PhD is aimed at those who are, or aspire to be, senior academic or administrative leaders of primary, secondary, or tertiary educational institutions, or university lecturers and researchers. These programmes are designed to develop the critical-thinking and research skills required for study at postgraduate level. Students have the opportunity to decide on the focus of their research and receive one-to-one support from experienced supervisors. At Lincoln, research students benefit from regular monthly meetings with their supervisor (monthly for full-time students, bi-monthly for part-time). In addition, students can attend regular training sessions on research methods and skills provided by the School of Education and the University's Doctoral School.