Progression
Higher degree research (HDR) candidates should aim to complete the entire research, writing up and examination process within the timeframe of their candidature. Scholarship holders are encouraged to submit their thesis before their scholarship expires. Candidates are informed of the period of their individual maximum candidature at the time of offer to the program.
Faculty staff, both academics involved in HDR supervision and staff involved in the administration of HDR programs, are committed to assisting candidates in planning and managing their research project within the time frame required.
Annual Reviews of Progress
Each higher degree research candidate reports annually on work completed towards the degree, current progress and plans for future work. The annual review of progress occurs in October/November every year and candidates are required to submit their completed Annual Progress Report (APR) to the Faculty by the due date.
The annual progress reporting provides an opportunity for both candidate and supervisor to review and evaluate progress on the project and to comment on any personal, academic or technical issues which have had an impact on candidate’s research.
The continuation of enrolment and any scholarships held are dependent upon (i) completion and submission of APR by the due date and (ii) satisfactory progress in the twelve months preceding the review or since commencement of candidature, where this was less than twelve months.
Procedures and review forms are available from:
Candidature Management Plan
The Candidature Management Plan (CPM) developed by the Higher Degree Research Office provides a general guide to essential research project activities and associated timelines.
Variation to Candidature
Higher degree research (HDR) candidates have a responsibility to be aware of HDR rules and expectations as set out in the degree Rules and the Higher Degree Research Guide for candidates and Supervisors.
Continuing HDR candidates do not need to re-enroll every year, however to add units for the current year or to make a change to any aspect of your research program, candidates are required to complete and submit an appropriate form. Enrolment in coursework or seminar units, changes to units, change of attendance (i.e. full-time to/from part-time), request for a Leave of Absence; suspension of a scholarship or a change of supervisor, all require a form to be completed, approved by the Faculty and submitted to HDRO for further approval and database noting. Candidates are notified by HDRO in writing of the outcome of their request.
Completion Workshops
The Completion Workshop is especially designed for HDR candidates who are in the final stages of their research project and who are planning to submit their thesis within the next 12 months.
In 2008, completion workshops were held by the Division of Society, Culture, Media and Philosophy (SCMP) and the Division of Humanities.