Teaching & Learning

Our personal approach to teaching starts when we select our students, and continues all through their degree. We believe it is important to support a wide range of courses. Emmanuel has a large group of teaching Fellows, usually at least one per subject.

Students looking at Earth Sciences samples with Dr Maclennan

The Colleges and the University work together to arrange teaching. All our students have a Director of Studies (DoS), who researches their subject. Your DoS is there to support & direct academic progress over the degree course (called a 'Tripos').

The University departments & faculties arrange lectures and other larger seminars & practical study, to which students from all Colleges attend. College teaching is arranged through ‘supervisions’. These are sessions with an expert from the College in your subject. In these, you will be joined by between one & three Emmanuel students in your year. These are set up & run by your Director of Studies (DoS). The sessions can be with them, or another researcher in your subject.

During term time, you will need to prepare for lectures, supervisions & seminars. You will also do your personal study for essays & projects. You will also be expected to complete reading/research, revision and other work during the College vacations.

University terms of teaching & exams are usually eight weeks long. Emmanuel students usually live in College for a week before term starts, and one after the term ends.

The pace of learning in Cambridge is intense, and sometimes the courses can challenge even the most talented students. However, we work closely with you, and tailor teaching to our students. Our DoSs & supervisors ensure that they provide you with academic advice & support throughout your degree.