Low 2.1, worth looking for PhD?

S

So I have very low 2.1 from decent university (Russell group). It's borderline 2.2. If it helps, I've got just over 70 from my 3rd year research project but by the end of the year I had some mitigating circumstances and I've essentially got just over 40 from 2 exams and failed to deliver my 3rd year literature review.

This happened in 2014. University decided not to graduate me in 2014 and instead offered me to retake some modules and redo literature review in 2015. I didn't take this offer as I felt I would do ever worse. So I graduated in 2015 with low 2.1 and a big 0 from 3rd year literature review.

Now I wonder if it's even possible for me to get into PhD, let alone get some funding.

EDIT: I forgot to mention I was studying biochemistry. I'm now working in banking (anti-money laundering) so I have no relevant work experience.

T

Low 2.1 is still a 2.1... They are not going to ask for your percentage on your PhD applications!

P

All you can do is try, a 2:1 is a 2:1. Although, TofL, when I applied for my PhD I had to send my transcripts in? If you have extenuating circs the Uni might take that into account.

T

Hmm, maybe I did too, actually, I can't remember! I know I had to upload my certificate, but I can't remember about the transcripts.

C

it's always worth looking. if you find a project that interests you and that you are enthusiastic about, contact the supervisor and explain your circumstances.

i would guess biochemistry is a field that gets a fair amount of funding, so would have thought there will be studentships available at universities with slightly lower entry standards and that may be something to consider.

P

Quote From shimetal:
So I have very low 2.1 from decent university (Russell group). It's borderline 2.2. If it helps, I've got just over 70 from my 3rd year research project but by the end of the year I had some mitigating circumstances and I've essentially got just over 40 from 2 exams and failed to deliver my 3rd year literature review.

This happened in 2014. University decided not to graduate me in 2014 and instead offered me to retake some modules and redo literature review in 2015. I didn't take this offer as I felt I would do ever worse. So I graduated in 2015 with low 2.1 and a big 0 from 3rd year literature review.

Now I wonder if it's even possible for me to get into PhD, let alone get some funding.

EDIT: I forgot to mention I was studying biochemistry. I'm now working in banking (anti-money laundering) so I have no relevant work experience.



If you really want to do this the. you should certainly start talking to potential supervisors.
I would imagine you would find a position.
The bigger concern is the 2:1 regardless of which university you got it from. To be honest, in terms of your education, the university is largely irrelevant. The fact is that you have learned barely 60% of what you have been taught. That knowledge gap is going to be a problem and you will need to close it urgently or the PhD may end up being a nightmare. Spotting links in interpreting your data for example and generating ideas for example will be much more challenging for someone without a 1st class. It can be done though.

P

Sorry pm that is complete nonsense. A 2:1 classification is perfectly adequate for PhD study, hence it being the entry standard for most PhDs. The problem is if it is a 'scraped' 2:1 there'll be plenty with good 2:1s.

3

I agree with pd. I got a mid 2:1 and my PhD is panning out very well. If a 2:1 were not acceptable for a PhD, the university would stipulate that in their entry requirements.

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