Research Master Degrees - Academic Policy

Content

Research Master Degrees - Academic Policy

Responsible officer: Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research)
Designated officer: Manager, Office of Research
Approving authority: Academic Board
Approval: C090/96, 8 December 2009
Last amended: EA/AB, 20 December 2011
Effective starting date: 5 January 2010
Any policies replaced by this policy: All Rules for Masters Degrees by Research
Policy number: G28.
Related policies/documents:

• Coursework Programs and Awards – Academic Policy
• Doctoral Degrees – Academic Policy
• Research Graduate Attributes
• Selection of Candidates for Postgraduate Research Scholarships - Managerial Policy
• Selection of Candidates for Postgraduate Scholarships - Procedures
• Higher Degrees by Research Procedures

Due date for next review: 8 December 2014

Part A: Preliminary

1. Purpose of policy

The following policy prescribes the structure, requirements and administration of research Master degree programs of the University of the Sunshine Coast.

2. Application of policy

This policy applies to all research Master degrees.

3. Definitions

In this policy the following definitions apply:

Committee means the Research Degrees Committee of the Academic Board or sub-committee of the Research Degrees Committee authorised to act on the Committee’s behalf.

Creative arts product means an original product designed and created or constructed by a candidate during candidature using one or more creative arts  or literary or musical or photographic or fine arts or graphics or media techniques.

Exegesis means a scholarly, critical commentary of the research informing the work or collection of works, resulting from research and work undertaken during candidature and produced during candidature. The exegesis also includes an explanatory statement on how the work was developed.

Research means work undertaken to produce a thesis, dissertation or, in some cases, an original creative work, irrespective of whether such activity is labelled as a course with a course code for administrative or assessment purposes.

Thesis means an original substantial piece of scholarly writing resulting from research undertaken by a candidate and produced during candidature to meet the requirements of the degree.

Part B: Policy

4. Structure and requirements of Research Master degrees

Research Master degrees offered by this University are research degrees which require the candidate to make a significant contribution of merit through a program of advanced research, study and production of work in a scholarly branch of learning.

Each research Master degree is approved individually by the Academic Board. In approving a research Master degree, the Academic Board shall approve

(i) The title of the program and the award which is granted on successful completion of all requirements;
(ii) The statement of purpose for the degree;
(iii) The admission requirements for the program, which shall be consistent with the provisions of section 6.1;
(iv) The program requirements which may include coursework and must include a research component that comprises at least two thirds of the total program requirements;
(v) Any specific requirements for the thesis or other product that the candidate is required to produce;
(vi) Any other variations or additions to the requirements set out in this policy.

4.1 The research content of Research Master degrees

Research Master degrees may include advanced coursework. However all research Master degrees must include a major research component that comprises at least two thirds of the total candidature requirements.

Activities which may be included in calculating the research content:

• Literature review in the area of the major research thesis
• Formulation of research proposal; development of research plan
• Production of the thesis (in print or other media)
• Research seminars, involving the student presenting their research work as a seminar
• Production of an original creative work (performing and/or visual arts) (in accordance with the University's interpretation of 'research' in the performing and creative arts area), together with any exegesis of the creative work
• Research project(s) in addition to and separate from the major research project.

Activities which may NOT be included in calculating the research content:

• Research methodology training courses
• Courses involving reading a selection of research literature in an area and producing a report
• Clinical practice; professional practice; internship
• Courses discussing the general research ethos or current research issues in a particular area
• A course involving the setting of a topic or problem which may be individual to a student and the student is required to locate relevant published material and produce a report on that topic.

4.2 Coursework content of Research Master degrees

Where the requirements of a specific research Master degree, as approved by the Academic Board, include coursework to be undertaken by all candidates, the approved program requirements shall include the number of course units required to be successfully completed, and any course(s) required to be undertaken and/ or the set of courses from which the candidate may select their study program.

Research Master candidates may be required to achieve a grade higher than a pass in order to satisfy the program requirements; if so, the minimum grade to be achieved shall be approved by the Academic Board.

The normal arrangements for the incorporation of coursework in a research Master degree are

• Courses included in a research Master degree shall be postgraduate level courses;
• The coursework component of the research Master degree shall be undertaken during the period of probationary candidature;
• The candidate shall have successfully completed all coursework requirements prior to having their candidature confirmed.

In approving a specific research Master degree, the Academic Board may approve variations to the normal arrangements specified above, where the Faculty proposing the degree presents arguments to support the proposed variations in terms of the aims and objectives of the specific program, and where the proposed variations support the overall quality of the program and the experience of candidates.

4.3 Requirement for originality

The program of research and production of work for a research Master degree must not contain as its main content any work or material which is embodied in a thesis or dissertation previously submitted by the candidate or any other person for a University degree or other similar qualification at this or other higher education institution, unless the Committee approves otherwise.

5. Responsibilities and authorities

In this policy, the responsibility and authority for administering research Master degrees and candidates undertaking research Master degrees is as follows:

University level - the Research Degrees Committee of the Academic Board. Certain functions may be delegated to a sub-committee of the Research Degrees Committee authorised to carry out those functions. The Chair of the Research Degrees Committee also has specific responsibilities and authorities prescribed in this and other policies.

Faculty/School level - the Executive Dean of the relevant Faculty, who may be assisted by the Faculty Research Coordinator

Candidate level - the Supervisor

6. Admission to candidature

6.1 Qualification for admission

The Academic Board shall approve the admission requirements for each research Master degree. The admission requirements for a research Master degree shall be at least:

(i) a Bachelors degree with Honours Class 2 Division II; or

(ii) a Bachelors degree from this University with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher on a seven point scale; or

(iii) qualifications and/or experience deemed to be equivalent to the standard of (i) or (ii).

The prior study must be in an area of study relevant to the discipline area of the Master degree.

If the prior study has not included an appropriate preparation in research methodology, the candidate will be required to undertake an appropriate research methodology course, as specified by the Executive Dean, as part of their candidature.

In addition to the above general qualifications for admission, the admission requirements for a specific Master degree may include additional requirements, such as a four-year Bachelor degree in the relevant discipline, professional registration, a specified number of years of professional practice, or other requirements indicative of a suitable preparation to undertake a research program at Masters level.

6.2 English language competency

All applicants must have a demonstrated sufficient command of English to complete satisfactorily the proposed research and study and to prepare a thesis in English. In particular, international applicants must meet the following prescribed minimum English Language proficiency:

• an overall IELTS (Academic) score of at least 6.5 with no band score less than 6.0; or
• a TOEFL (Paper based test) score of 575, including a score of no less than 4.0 on the written test; or
• an overall score of 85 on the internet-based TOEFL with a writing score of at least 21 and no sub-score less than 20.

Other English language standards equivalent to those above.

Test scores should be not more than two years old at the time of application.

6.3 Admission procedure

An applicant for admission must complete and submit an approved application form and provide documentation required to support the application, including but not restricted to certified copies of academic transcripts and testamurs, a brief outline of the intended area of research, and, where relevant, a portfolio of peer-reviewed or refereed research publications or other research works, or a portfolio of original creative arts works.

6.4 Admission decision

Applications for admission to candidature are considered by the Committee. The decision to offer candidature to an applicant shall be based on:

(i) the applicant meeting the general requirements for admission as prescribed in 6.1 and 6.2 and the specific requirements for the Master degree as approved by the Academic Board; and

(ii) the quality and feasibility of the applicant’s proposed program of research, study or creative arts production in terms of the research Master degree to which the applicant seeks admission; and

(iii) the extent to which the applicant has the background knowledge and skills to pursue the proposed program of research, study or creative arts production; and

(iv) the coherence of the proposed research program with the University’s designated areas of research as specified in the University’s Research Productivity and Output Plan; and

(v) the recommendation of the relevant Executive Dean concerning the application; and

(vi) the availability of supervision, resources and facilities to support the proposed program of research, study or creative arts production.

The Committee may make an offer of admission to an applicant. The offer of admission shall specify the Masters program in which the candidature is to be undertaken, the supervision arrangements, whether the candidature is full-time or part-time, and any requirements for additional study or supporting activities. Where the candidature is to be undertaken wholly or partly at a location away from the University, the approved arrangements are specified in conjunction with the admission offer.

Applicants are normally admitted as probationary candidates. The conditions for admission as a confirmed candidate are set out in section 8.8.

6.5 Recognition of work done prior to admission

Prior study undertaken at this or another recognised institution may be recognised towards the research Master degree, provided that it has not been recognised for another award. Recognition of work done prior to admission normally results in a change in the maximum submission date. For students transferring between Australian institutions, the provisions of the Research Training Scheme (RTS) apply.

6.6 Prior failure

An applicant previously enrolled in a research higher degree at this or another institution who has failed the examination for the degree will not normally be admitted as a candidate.

6.7 Withdrawal of offer of admission to candidature

The Committee reserves the right to withdraw an offer of admission to candidature and cancel an enrolment of any person where an offer was made on the basis of incomplete or inaccurate or fraudulent information supplied by the applicant or a certifying authority.

7. Supervision

The Committee will appoint supervisor(s) for each candidate, in consultation with the relevant Executive Dean. Normally at least two supervisors shall be appointed, one of whom is designated Supervisor, and where appropriate, another Co-Supervisor. Others are designated Associate Supervisors.

The supervision arrangements will be reviewed and confirmed in conjunction with confirmation of candidature.

The Supervisor and Co-Supervisor(s) are required to be academic staff members of this University. Associate Supervisors may be from outside this University.

Where candidature is located wholly or partly at an external organisation, an Associate Supervisor who is a member of the external organisation is normally appointed.

The responsibilities of supervisors are set out in the Responsibilities of Supervisors and Candidates document (Appendix 2).

The criteria for supervisors are set out in the Criteria for the register of Supervisors document (Appendix 3).

7.1 Change of supervisor; absence of supervisor

The Committee is required to approve any change of supervisor.

If a Supervisor is to be absent from the University for a period of six months or more, the Committee shall designate a replacement Supervisor for the period of absence, commonly the existing Co-Supervisor.

8. Candidature

8.1 Enrolment

To undertake the research Master degree, an applicant receiving an offer of candidature must accept the offer and complete such enrolment procedures as may be required.

A candidate is required to maintain a current enrolment throughout their candidature, completing re-enrolment procedures as may be required, up to the time at which they lodge their thesis or creative arts product for examination, or terminate their candidature, take leave or otherwise have their candidature terminated or interrupted under this policy.

A candidate enrolled in a research Master degree may not undertake concurrent study in any program at this or other higher education institution without the permission of the Committee.

8.2 Full-time/part-time candidature

A candidate is enrolled as a full-time or part-time candidate in accordance with the initial offer of candidature.

On the recommendation of the Supervisor, the Committee may approve a change in candidature from full-time to part-time candidature, or from part-time to full-time candidature.

Changes between full-time and part-time candidature must be approved and officially recorded as they affect the calculation of the duration of candidature (see 8.4).

When the student’s candidature is full-time, it is expected that only a limited amount of time will be available for undertaking paid employment. As a general guide, 18 hours of paid employment per week should be the limit. If the student holds a scholarship, the limitation on paid employment may be prescribed in the scholarship conditions.

8.3 Candidature away from the University

A candidate proposing to undertake all or part of their research, study or creative arts production at a location external to this University must seek the approval of the Committee. This is normally done as part of the application for admission, but may be done subsequent to admission.

Where the research, study or creative arts production requires the resources or facilities of an external organisation, the candidate’s access to such resources or facilities must be documented in written correspondence to the satisfaction of the Committee.

In approving candidature wholly or partly at an external location, the Committee may appoint an Associate Supervisor from the relevant organisation and may specify a minimum period during which the candidate must attend this University.

On the recommendation of the Supervisor, the Executive Dean may approve a candidate’s request to pursue part of their program of research, study or creative arts production away from the University for a period up to 6 months. Longer periods of research, study or creative arts production away from the University require the approval of the Committee.

8.4 Duration of candidature

The minimum and maximum duration of candidature, calculated from the date of initial enrolment to the date of submission of thesis or creative arts product for examination, is:

Full-time Candidature:
Minimum duration one year (52 weeks)
Maximum duration two years (104 weeks)

Part-time Candidature:
Minimum duration two years (104 weeks)
Maximum duration four years (208 weeks)

The minimum and maximum submission dates for the thesis or creative arts product are calculated according to these durations. If a candidate changes between full-time and part-time candidature, the minimum and maximum submission dates are adjusted pro rata. If a candidate is given credit for work undertaken prior to admission, the minimum and maximum submission dates are adjusted in accordance with the provisions of the Research Training Scheme (RTS).

In exceptional circumstances, a candidate may be given permission by the Committee to submit their thesis or creative arts product prior to the minimum submission date.

8.5 Probationary candidature

A candidate's probationary candidature will commence from the date on which the candidate is first enrolled as a probationary candidate.

During the period of probationary candidature, in addition to any required coursework and any other work required by the Committee or other work agreed between the candidate and the candidate's Supervisor, a candidate must prepare a detailed research proposal that includes:


(a) the proposed descriptive title for the thesis
(b) an explication of the candidate's research issues or problems or questions or hypotheses
(c) in the case of a candidate for the Master of Creative Arts, an outline of the proposed creative arts product(s)
(d) a comprehensive literature review
(e) details of the candidate's proposed research methodology or methodologies
(f) proposed timelines for completion of various stages of the research, creative arts products, and thesis including, where appropriate, any manuscripts to be submitted for publication.

8.6 Ethics and other approvals

During probationary candidature, the candidate is required to undertake the processes to obtain, where applicable, any ethics/biosafety/gene technology approvals and any permits, licenses or other authorisations for the proposed research that are required by law. The candidate may not commence any research work until all such approvals are obtained.

Documentary evidence of all relevant approvals must be provided as part of the detailed research proposal presented for confirmation of candidature.

8.7 Confirmation of candidature

All probationary candidates will be reviewed for confirmation of candidature following 36 weeks of probationary candidature in the case of full-time candidates and 72 weeks of candidature in the case of part-time candidates.

To apply for confirmation of candidature, the candidate must

(i) submit the research proposal as prescribed in section 8.5; and

(ii) present the research in an appropriate format at the discretion of the Executive Dean (e.g. a research seminar or panel review).

The research proposal and the research seminar are assessed by the Supervisor, Associate Supervisors, the Executive Dean or Faculty Research Coordinator, and one or more independent assessors appointed by the Executive Dean. The Executive Dean and/or the Faculty Research Coordinator may provide feedback to the candidate on their research proposal as part of the confirmation process.

The Executive Dean will forward the candidate’s application for confirmation of candidature to the Committee with a recommendation and supporting reasons. The Committee will assess the candidate's application for confirmation of candidature taking account of the recommendation of the Executive Dean and will determine the outcome as one of the following options and advise the candidate accordingly:

(a) the candidature is confirmed, with the supervision arrangements confirmed and the thesis title approved; or
(b) the candidate is required to continue enrolment as a probationary candidate for a specified period of time up to a maximum of a further 16 weeks in the case of a full-time candidate or 32 weeks in the case of a part-time candidate; or
(c) the candidature is terminated.

Where the relevant assessors consider that the research proposal and research seminar presented by the candidate for confirmation are appropriate for doctoral candidature, the candidate may be advised to transfer to a doctoral degree (see 8.10).

Before making a decision to terminate candidature, the Committee will give the candidate an opportunity to make representations orally or in writing and will take any representations into account before reaching its decision.

A candidate will not be permitted to continue enrolment as a probationary candidate beyond the maximum probationary candidature period which is:

Full-time candidature one year (52 weeks)
Part-time candidature two years (104 weeks)

8.8 Direct admission to confirmed candidature

An applicant for entry may be admitted direct to, and enrolled in, confirmed candidature, if the Committee is satisfied that:

(a) at the time of, or immediately prior to, applying for entry, the applicant was enrolled as a candidate for a higher degree by research at this or another approved higher education institution; and
(b) the research to be undertaken towards the degree is substantially the same as that undertaken by the applicant towards the other higher degree by research; and
(c) the applicant has not submitted for examination a thesis or dissertation based on the research undertaken by the applicant towards the other higher degree by research; and
(d) the applicant has provided evidence of having made sufficient progress in the other higher degree by research to warrant entry to confirmed candidature.

8.9 Review of progress

The progress of all domestic candidates will be monitored annually (due on the last business day in April each year). In accordance with the ESOS requirement, International candidates must report their progress every six months (April and October each year).

The candidate will submit a progress report to the Principal Supervisor for assessment. The Supervisor forwards the report, with their assessment, to the Executive Dean, who in turn forwards the candidate’s report with their assessment to the Committee.

For the purpose of assessing a candidate's progress, the Candidate, Supervisor or the Executive Dean may submit reports on the candidate's progress to the Committee at any time. All domestic candidates will be invited to submit an additional non-compulsory report due at the end of October each year.

8.9.1 Unsatisfactory progress

If a candidate fails to lodge a progress report, without acceptable explanation, within 10 weeks of the due date for that report, or if the reports from the candidate and/or supervisor and any other associated evidence indicate unsatisfactory progress, the Committee may decide that the candidate’s progress is unsatisfactory and inform the candidate and the Supervisor accordingly.

Where a candidate’s progress is unsatisfactory, the Committee shall either

(a) require the candidate to submit a follow-up report in six months time (on the last business day in October of that year during the non-compulsory reporting round) 

(b) place other conditions on continuation of the candidature, or

(c) ask the candidate to show cause why the candidature should not be terminated.

Where a candidate is assessed by the Committee as having made unsatisfactory progress over two consecutive reporting periods within any single year (April and October follow-up report), or if a candidate has not complied with any condition for continuation of candidature imposed by the Committee during previous consideration of progress reports on the candidature, the candidate shall be asked to show cause why the candidature should not be terminated.

The Committee considers the representations of the candidate in response to the show cause request and either

(a) permits the candidate to continue under specified conditions; or
(b) terminates the candidature.

If the candidate fails to respond to the show cause request, the Committee will terminate the candidature, and advise the candidate accordingly.

A candidate whose candidature is terminated has the right of appeal under the Student Grievances and Appeals - Governing Policy.

8.10 Change of research topic; change of thesis title

If, following confirmation of candidature, a candidate wishes to change the topic of their research work to any significant extent, the candidate must make application to the Committee through the Supervisor and Executive Dean, who must support the application for a change of research topic. In making a recommendation to change the candidate’s research topic, the Executive Dean must also recommend whether the candidate is to be returned to probationary status and undergo a standard or modified process for confirmation of candidature and must recommend to the Committee any adjustment to the maximum thesis submission date. Where the change of research topic has been substantially addressed in conjunction with the initial confirmation process, the Executive Dean may recommend that the change of research topic be approved without a change to the candidate’s confirmation status or maximum thesis submission date.

With the approval of the Supervisor, a candidate may change the title of their thesis from the title approved when their candidature was confirmed. Providing that the change of thesis title is not indicative of a significant change in the research topic, a change of thesis title does not require the approval of the Committee.

8.11 Transfer between Doctoral and Master degrees

On the recommendation of the Executive Dean, the Committee may approve an application to convert a confirmed Masters candidature to a doctoral candidature. The period completed as a Masters candidate will be deducted from the candidature duration for the purpose of determining the minimum and maximum length of the doctoral candidature.

On the recommendation of the Executive Dean, the Committee may approve an application to convert a doctoral candidature to candidature in a research Master program. The period completed as a doctoral candidate will be deducted from the candidature duration for the purpose of determining the minimum and maximum length of the Masters candidature.

8.12 Standard of academic conduct

Candidates are expected to undertake their program in accordance with the accepted standards of academic conduct, including the Code of Conduct for Research - Governing Policy. Any form of conduct that is contrary to these standards is academic misconduct and may be penalised under the Student Academic Integrity - Governing Policy, and/or the Research Misconduct Statement - Governing Policy.

8.13 Suspension of candidature, leave

Periods of approved leave are not counted for the purposes of determining the period of probationary enrolment and the minimum and maximum periods of candidature.

A candidate may not undertake research, study or creative arts production for the degree during any period of approved leave from candidature.

8.13.1 Leave of absence

A candidate may apply to the Committee for leave of absence from candidature.

In considering an application for leave of absence, the Committee may take into consideration:

(a) the extent to which the candidate had made progress in candidature prior to submitting the application for leave, and
(b) the reasons given by the candidate for seeking the leave, and
(c) any recommendation from the candidate's Supervisor, Executive Dean or Faculty Research Coordinator.

Leave of absence is not normally granted for more than 12 months.

Leave of absence is not normally granted during the first six months of candidature.

Retrospective applications for leave of absence are not normally approved.

8.13.2 Sick leave

A candidate who submits an acceptable medical certificate for a period of illness in excess of two weeks may apply to have the period recognised as a temporary cessation of candidature. Applications for sick leave must be made within two weeks of the return from sick leave.

8.13.3 Parental leave

The Committee may approve an application for maternity, paternity or adoption leave, consistent with the University’s policy on such leave for staff.

8.14 Withdrawal from candidature

A candidate may withdraw from candidature by informing the Office of Research in writing and the withdrawal will take effect from the date of receipt of such notification. The Office of Research will inform the relevant Executive Dean and Supervisor of the candidate’s withdrawal.

8.15 Extension of candidature

On application by the candidate and with the support of the Supervisor, the Committee may approve an extension of candidature and maximum submission date for a period of up to 52 weeks.

Where an application for extension of candidature is not approved, the candidature will be terminated at the original maximum submission date. The Committee may advise the candidate of the conditions under which an application for readmission to candidature may be considered.

8.16 Termination of candidature

The Committee may terminate candidature if the candidate has failed to make satisfactory progress, meet any candidature requirements or comply with any other condition imposed by the Committee.

Candidature may be terminated only after a reasonable attempt has been made by the Supervisor and the Executive Dean to ensure that the candidate has been:

• clearly warned of shortcomings in performing the research and/or in meeting candidature requirements; and
• advised of ways in which such shortcomings might be remedied.

The Committee will provide the candidate with an opportunity to show cause why their candidature may not be terminated.

After considering the candidate's response, the Committee may terminate candidature or determine that the candidature continues, in which a case the Committee may prescribe special conditions to be fulfilled.

9. Thesis

9.1 Requirements for thesis

The candidate must prepare their thesis in accordance with “Specifications for the Presentation of Theses for Research Higher Degrees” (see Appendix 1).

A candidate, with the support of their Supervisor, may request approval for a variation in the specifications where good reason for such a variation exists.

9.2 Requirements for exegesis

Where an exegesis is required, the candidate must prepare their exegesis in accordance with “Specifications for the Presentation of Theses for Research Higher Degrees” (see Appendix 1).

9.3 Intellectual property

Candidates will have ownership of intellectual property directly related to their research project or creative arts product, unless other arrangements have been mutually agreed in advance by the candidate and the University. (Refer to the University’s Intellectual Property - Governing Policy)

10. Examination

10.1 Submission of thesis for examination

A candidate must give the Committee not less than eight weeks written notice of intention to submit a thesis or creative arts product for examination.

Candidates are required to present their research at a faculty seminar prior to submitting their thesis, approximately two months prior to the due date for thesis submission.

Where the candidate is submitting a printed thesis, the candidate is required to lodge three copies of the thesis for examination (ie one for each of the number of examiners nominated plus one spare for the University). Where the candidate has been given permission to submit their thesis in a form other than a printed volume, the candidate must comply with the directions of the Committee regarding the material to be presented for examination.

A candidate must submit to the Office of Research three copies of the thesis, or other material as directed by the Committee, together with a form signed by the candidate certifying that:

• the thesis is the candidate’s own account of research undertaken by the candidate; and
• the thesis has been wholly completed during candidature, except where the Committee has approved a transfer of enrolment from another research higher degree; and
• where work has been done conjointly with other persons, the candidate’s contribution is clearly stated and the contribution of other persons is clearly acknowledged and recognised; and
• the thesis does not contain as its main content any work or material which is embodied in a thesis or dissertation previously submitted by the candidate or any other person for a University degree or other similar qualification at this or other higher education institution, except where approval has previously been granted by the Committee.

If the candidate wishes, any documents or work published by the candidate bearing on the subject of the thesis may accompany the submission of the thesis.

In the case of a candidate for the Master of Creative Arts, where the creative arts product is print based, the candidate must submit to the Office of Research four copies of the creative arts product and exegesis. Where the creative arts product is not print based, the process of submission is specified in section 15.3 of the Higher Degrees by Research Procedures. 

In the case of a candidate for the Master of Creative Arts the submission of the creative arts product and exegesis for examination must be accompanied by a form signed by the candidate certifying that:

• the creative arts product and exegesis are the candidate’s own work; and
• the creative arts product and exegesis have been wholly completed during candidature, except where the Committee has approved a transfer of enrolment from another research higher degree; and
• where the creative arts product has involved work done conjointly with other persons, the candidate’s contribution is clearly stated and the contribution of other persons is clearly acknowledged and recognised; and
• the creative arts product and exegesis do not contain as their main content any work or material previously submitted by the candidate or any other person for a University degree or other similar qualification at this or other higher education institution, except where approval has previously been granted by the Committee.

10.2 Supervisor’s declaration

At the time of the submission of a thesis or creative arts product and exegesis for examination, the candidate's Supervisor must provide the Committee with a signed statement that the thesis or creative arts product and exegesis are of sufficient merit to warrant examination, and that the candidate has completed the research embodied in the thesis, or the process of creating the creative arts product, during candidature and under the direction of the supervisor.

In the event that the supervisor does not provide the required statement within two weeks of the candidate's submission, or if the Supervisor declines to support the examination of the thesis or creative arts product, the Committee will determine whether the thesis or creative arts product will be accepted for examination. In making the determination, the Committee may seek written or oral representations from the candidate, the Supervisor, any Associate Supervisors, and the Executive Dean, and may seek information from any other sources.

If the Committee determines that the thesis or creative arts product may not be submitted for examination, the Office of Research must advise the candidate in writing of the decision, the reasons for the decision and, where appropriate, any actions that the candidate needs to take in order that the thesis or creative arts product may be made ready for examination.

Candidature will end when the thesis or creative arts product is submitted.

10.3 Appointment of examiners

Upon notification of intention to submit a thesis or creative arts product, and, after consultation with the Executive Dean, the Committee will appoint two examiners, none of whom will be members of the staff of this University.

A staff member of this University with appropriate expertise in the research area will act as Chairperson of Examiners. The Chairperson of Examiners will not act as an examiner. The examiners and the Chairperson of Examiners constitute the examination panel.

Neither a candidate’s supervisor, nor any other person acknowledged in the thesis as making a contribution to the work, may be appointed as an examiner.

The identity of the examiners will be made known to the candidate when the examination of the thesis or creative arts product has been completed, unless an examiner has asked that their identity not be made known to the candidate.

10.4 The examination process (thesis)

Each examiner makes a separate report and recommendation to the Committee on the merit of the thesis. Members of the examination panel may not normally consult with one another.

An examiner wishing to enter into dialogue with another examiner, a supervisor, a candidate or the Chairperson of Examiners, should direct any request to the Chair of the Research Degrees Committee. A supervisor or candidate may not initiate contact with an examiner or chairperson of examiners.

Each examiner will recommend:

1. The thesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate awarded the degree; or
2. The thesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate awarded the degree subject to required non-substantial amendment of the thesis being made by the candidate to the satisfaction of the Chairperson of Examiners; or
3. The thesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate awarded the degree subject to the completion of substantial corrections or supplementation to the thesis, as specified, to the satisfaction of the Chairperson of Examiners; or
4. The thesis be revised, as specified, and resubmitted for examination; or
5. The candidate be required to re-enrol to undertake further research work and the thesis be revised and resubmitted for examination; or
6. The thesis be rejected and the degree not be awarded.

The Chairperson of Examiners is responsible for considering the reports of examiners and for making a recommendation to the Committee on the outcome of the examination.

10.5 Examination process (creative arts product)

The processes for the examination of non-print based creative arts products are prescribed in section 15.3 of the Higher Degrees by Research Procedures. 

1. Each examiner makes a separate report and recommendation to the Committee on the merit of the creative arts product and exegesis. Members of the examination panel may not normally consult with one another.

An examiner wishing to enter into dialogue with another examiner, a supervisor, a candidate or the Chairperson of Examiners, should direct any request to the Chair of the Research Degrees Committee. A supervisor or candidate may not initiate contact with an examiner or chairperson of examiners.

Each examiner will recommend:

1. The creative arts product and exegesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate awarded the degree; or
2. The creative arts product and exegesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate awarded the degree subject to required non-substantial amendment of the exegesis being made by the candidate to the satisfaction of the Chairperson of Examiners; or
3. The creative arts product and exegesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate awarded the degree subject to the completion of substantial corrections or supplementation to the creative arts product and exegesis, as specified, to the satisfaction of the Chairperson of Examiners; or
4. The creative arts product and exegesis be revised, as specified, and resubmitted for examination; or
5. The candidate be required to re-enrol to undertake further creative or research work and the exegesis be revised and resubmitted for examination; or
6. The creative arts product and exegesis be rejected and the degree not be awarded.

The Chairperson of Examiners is responsible for considering the reports of examiners and for making a recommendation to the Committee on the outcome of the examination.

10.6 Reconciliation of examiners’ reports

Where there is substantial disagreement between the examiners about whether the degree should be awarded, the Chairperson of Examiners and / or the Committee may approve that:

• an additional examiner be appointed to examine the thesis or creative arts product and exegesis; or
• an adjudication examiner be appointed to consider the thesis, or creative arts product and exegesis and the reports of the other examiners, and to make a report.

10.7 Outcome of the examination

The Committee determines the outcome of the examination as one of the following:

(a) recommend to the Academic Board that the thesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate be admitted to the degree; or

(b) recommend that the thesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate awarded the degree subject to required non-substantial amendment of the thesis being made by the candidate to the satisfaction of the Chairperson of Examiners; or

(c) recommend that the thesis be accepted as satisfactory and the candidate awarded the degree subject to the completion of substantial corrections or supplementation to the thesis, as specified, to the satisfaction of the Chairperson of Examiners; or

(d) recommend that the thesis be revised, as specified, and resubmitted for examination; or

(e) recommend that the candidate be required to re-enrol to undertake further research work and the thesis be revised and resubmitted for examination; or

(f) determine that the candidate not be admitted to the degree, and that the candidature be terminated.

10.8 Revision of thesis or creative arts product and exegesis

A candidate who is required to make minor amendments to the thesis or exegesis must submit the revised thesis or exegesis to the Office of Research no later than 13 weeks from the date on which the candidate was advised of the result of the examination.

A candidate who is required to undertake further work and/or revise and resubmit a thesis or creative arts product and exegesis for re-examination must re-enrol as a candidate for the purpose of the revision and resubmission.

A thesis or creative arts product and exegesis that is revised following its initial examination must be submitted to the Office of Research by the candidate for examination by a date to be determined by the Committee and by no later than 52 weeks from the date on which the candidate was advised of the result of the initial examination.

A candidate will be permitted to amend and resubmit a thesis or creative arts product and exegesis for examination for award of the degree once only.

10.9 Lodgement and availability of final thesis, creative arts product and exegesis

A candidate who is awarded the research Master degree must lodge an electronic copy of the final thesis with the University Library in a manner and form to be prescribed by the Director, Information Services, and must provide the Supervisor with a copy of the final thesis.

In the case of a thesis that includes published works or works that are subject to copyright or patent or similar intellectual property restrictions, the candidate must lodge with the thesis a copy of any contract or formal agreement or legal instrument that binds the candidate or the University with respect to those works.

The copy of the thesis lodged with the University Library will be available to any person for consultation or copying unless, on the application of the candidate concerned, the Committee determines that it will not be made available without the written consent of the author for a period which must not exceed 52 weeks or unless prohibited by any restrictions required by any legally enforceable instrument lodged by the candidate.

The requirements for lodgement, retention and accessibility of a creative arts product and exegesis are prescribed in section 15.3 of the Higher Degrees by Research Procedures.

11. Appeals and grievances

A candidate who has a grievance concerning any action or decision of a supervisor, Executive Dean, Faculty Research Coordinator or the Committee may have their grievance dealt with under the Student Grievances and Appeals - Governing Policy.

Appendix 1: Specifications for the presentation of theses for Research Higher Degrees

1. Purpose of specifications

These specifications apply to theses prepared for Master and Doctoral degrees.

These specifications for the preparation and presentation of theses represent the University’s usual practice. There may be legitimate variation from these specifications because of accepted practice in various disciplines. In the case that the student and supervisor are uncertain of specific protocols, advice can be sought from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor through the Chair, Research Degrees Committee.

Regardless of the discipline area, it is required that the thesis be presented in scholarly English, and be substantially free from typographical and grammatical errors.

2. Word length

Doctor of Philosophy - The length of a conventional thesis should normally be no more than 80,000 words, excluding appendices and footnotes. A thesis based on published research articles would normally be expected to be shorter than a conventional thesis: approximately 60,000 words.

Research Master – a Master by research thesis should normally be approximately 40,000 words in length, excluding appendices and footnotes.

Creative Arts Exegesis - At Doctoral level, the exegesis should normally be between 30,000 and 40,000 words. At Masters level the exegesis should normally be between 15,000 and 20,000 words. There is no recommended word length for the creative component.

In the event that there is a legitimate case for a thesis or exegesis to exceed these limits, special representation should be made to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor through the Chair, Research Degrees Committee, for prior written approval to submit such a thesis or exegesis.

3. Structure

All theses should incorporate, in the following order:

Title page
A title page, giving the name of the thesis in full, the full name and academic qualifications of the candidate, the full details of the degree for which the work is submitted, the name of the Faculty associated with the work, the name and address of the University associated with the work, and the date of submission.

Abstract
A one to two page abstract of the work. This abstract or summary may be used for citation purposes, and should clearly outline the essence of the submitted work.

Declaration of originality
A declaration of originality, attesting that the work does not contain material which has been previously published or written by any person other than the candidate except where due and proper reference has been given in the text. The declaration should be signed and dated by the candidate.

In the case of work that is based upon joint research or publications, the statement should include a statement disclosing the relative contributions of the respective authors, and, where practical, be counter-signed by all contributors.

Acknowledgements
An acknowledgements page, in which due scholarly acknowledgements are made by the candidate to persons or organisations that have materially assisted with the work. Due care must be exercised here to preserve the anonymity of persons or organisations who have been protected by research ethics conditions.

Table of contents
A table of contents, listing page references to the major sections and subsections of the text. Usually, pages that precede the main text are numbered using small Roman numerals, and the main text is numbered using Arabic numerals.

Lists of tables, illustrations and figures
A list of tables, a list of illustrations, and a list of figures.

List of original publications (for candidates submitting a PhD thesis by published research papers ) To facilitate referencing to the published research papers and to items within published papers, accurate page numbers should be provided for all aspects of the thesis.

Preface (optional)
A general preface to the work is optional. The words of the Preface will count towards the word total. The Preface can be used to make a researcher’s statement and/or contextualise the work in a condensed way.

Body of the thesis
The format of the main text will differ depending on the type of thesis a candidate is submitting.

For candidates submitting a conventional thesis
A possible example of a traditional thesis format could include chapters such as:

Introduction
Literature Review
Theoretical Framework
Methodology and Methods
Research Data Analysis and Findings
Discussion and Conclusion

For candidates submitting a thesis by published research articles
The body of a thesis by published works will consist of at least three research articles bound into the one volume, accompanied, as appropriate, by an introduction and a conclusion chapter. The thesis may be organised as the candidate deems most logical, and will normally consist of chapters or sections such as:

Introduction/context
Research articles (incorporating Literature Review, Methodology and Methods, etc)
Findings and Conclusions

Further guidelines for theses by published research articles are included at the end of this document.

For candidates submitting a creative arts product and exegesis
The examinable material for the Doctor or Master of Creative Arts is constituted by the creative arts product and an exegesis. Where the creative work consists of printed materials, it must be bound into the same volume as the exegesis. The creative work may precede or follow the exegesis as the candidate deems most logical.

Where the creative work consists of non-print materials, the requirements are specified in section 15.3 of the Higher Degrees by Research Procedures.

The exegesis will normally consist of chapters or sections such as:

Introduction
Literature Review
Methodology and Methods
Findings and Conclusions

It is understood that in some cases the work will require discipline modifications of these accepted structures. Whereas modifications will be regarded as legitimate, the variants should still present the reader with a logical development of ideas from context to conclusion. Should the student and supervisor be uncertain about the proposed structure of the main text, advice can be sought from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor through the Chair, Research Degrees Committee.

References
A reference list, containing full details of all works referred to in the text, using a standard referencing system. There are many accepted referencing systems, but it is usual that a discipline will have a preferred system. The supervisor and student should ensure that the referencing system is followed precisely and accurately. In the case of cross-disciplinary studies that might imply different referencing systems, the supervisor and student should decide upon one of these systems, and not mix referencing conventions.

Bibliography
In some theses, a bibliography will be expected, that lists all works that have contributed to the development of the scholarly ideas behind the thesis. In certain specialist areas, it will also be usual to distinguish between primary sources and secondary sources, and it is recommended that a student seek out recent examples of theses published in the area and use these as a model.

Appendices
Any appendices referred to in the text.

4. Format

Typically, the following type of approach should be adopted for the format of the thesis or exegesis:

• International Standard Paper Size A4 (297 x 210mm) should be used;
• The typing should be 1.5 spaced, presented in a clear and legible font and would normally be expected to be double-sided;
• Left and right margins should be no less than 30mm and page numbers should appear inside the margins;
• Pages should be numbered consecutively and clearly;
• Folding diagrams or charts should be arranged so as to open to the top and right;
• Before producing final copies of a thesis for submission, the candidate should ensure that all the spelling, grammar, punctuation and choice of language are of a higher degree standard and the bibliography is complete and exact. It is recommended that candidates have their theses proof-read before producing final copies.

5. Further specifications for candidates submitting a Doctoral thesis by published research articles

A Doctoral thesis by published research articles for examination will normally include:

• At least three thematically linked research articles authored by the candidate during candidature, each of which has been accepted for publication in a refereed research journal or other preferred research publication during candidature; and
• Accompanying text providing background and context, exposition of the overall theme and summarising conclusions, as relevant to the research articles.

Where one or more of the submitted papers are co-authored, each should be preceded by a clear statement of the intellectual contribution of the candidate which is signed by each of the co-authors.

The candidate is normally expected to be the first-named author on their submitted papers. Where a candidate includes a paper on which they are not first-named author they should also include a statement explaining why they are not, and describing their contribution to the paper.

Quality refereed journals are the most appropriate research outlets for publication of papers for this type of thesis. Research books may also be accepted.

Where these requirements are not met, special representation must be made to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, through the Chair, Research Degrees Committee, for approval to submit such a thesis.

Appendix 2: USC responsibilities of supervisors and candidates for Doctoral, Research Master and Honours Degrees

Preface

Supervisor's responsibilities

• Clarifying expectations and basic information
• Defining and developing the research area
• Monitoring facilities and circumstances of candidate
• Creating a research ethos
• Developing the thesis
• Authorship and intellectual property
• Ethics issues
• Supervisor/candidate contact and program management
• Progress reporting
• Delegation

Candidate's responsibilities

• Clarifying expectations and basic information
• Defining and developing the research area
• Monitoring facilities and circumstances of candidate
• Creating a research ethos
• Developing the thesis
• Authorship and intellectual property
• Ethics issues
• Supervisor/candidate contact and program management
• Progress reporting

Preface

Quality supervision of Research Higher Degrees is an important university priority as it leads to research outcomes in the form of career and professional development of academic staff and production of good research publications that enhance the reputation of the university. Accordingly, it is important that PPR supervisors are conscious of the option of negotiating PPR goals related to supervision. These negotiated goals could relate to how supervision fits into staff career plans, especially in relation to the quantity of students they have and the quality of their supervision practices. To this end we are seeking to develop some guidelines for PPR supervisors and staff about PPR goal-setting related to supervision. The responsibilities that follow may assist in this process.

Supervisor's responsibilities

1. Before undertaking the supervision of a candidate, proposed supervisors are responsible for satisfying themselves that they:
1.1. have approval for the supervision of each candidate from the Cost Centre Manager/ Head of School/ Executive Dean of Faculty (as appropriate) within their workload as part of the PPR process
1.2. are suitably qualified to carry out the supervision, including appropriate registration as a Supervisor at USC
1.3. have sufficient time available to carry out the supervision
1.4. have a reasonable expectation that they will be available to supervise at least the definition and development stage of the candidacy.
2. The co-supervisor and associate supervisor are responsible for familiarising themselves with relevant University policies and procedures.

Clarifying expectations and basic information

3. The supervisor (and where appropriate the co-supervisor and the associate supervisor) is responsible for:
3.1. clarifying with the candidate, the candidate's expectations about the facilities to be provided and the conditions applicable to the candidacy
3.2. informing the candidate about the facilities to be provided, including:
3.2.1. access to physical space;
3.2.2. the University network and computers;
3.2.3. the Library and other resources within the University
3.2.4. any financial support that is likely to be available
3.3. the problem-solving mechanisms and the support services for candidates which exist within the University
3.4. the various administrative requirements of the degree, such as enrolment and notifying details of changes
3.5. all relevant University's policies including University Health and Safety, Human Research Ethics and Intellectual Property, Acceptable use of IT Resources, Electronic Mail
3.6. informing the candidate of relevant support services such as disability support and English language available through the University
3.7. the responsibilities imposed on the candidate as indicated in "Responsibilities of a Candidate"
3.8. ensuring that both the candidate and the supervisor (and where appropriate, the associate supervisor) have clarified what each expects of the other.

Defining and developing the research area

4. The supervisor (and where appropriate the co-supervisor and associate supervisor) is responsible for:
4.1. assisting the candidate to define and develop the research area, including appropriate methodology by helping the candidate:
4.1.1. define the general area of research
4.1.2. establish the aims of the investigation and prioritisation of the aims
4.1.3. propose a plan of work including the relationship to previous work
4.1.4. develop a project management plan
4.1.5. translate the aims into objectives
4.2. ensuring that the candidate is aware of the standards expected for the degree concerned
4.3. identifying with the candidate the particular research skills that need to be acquired and the most appropriate data gathering and analysing techniques including whether the candidate should undertake training in specific research methods
4.4. being satisfied that, after receiving a research proposal from the candidate:
4.4.1. the candidate appears capable of undertaking the research proposed
4.4.2. the facilities are available to enable the research to succeed and
4.4.3. the research can be completed in the time designated for the award
4.5. if the submission of a research proposal is a provision for admission of the candidate, ensuring that the candidate submits the research proposal
4.6. ensuring that the candidate has obtained approval for the research proposal from any collaborating researchers.

Monitoring facilities and circumstances of candidate

5. The supervisor is responsible for:
5.1. monitoring the availability of facilities necessary for the candidate
5.2. advising on safe working practices for the candidate and ensuring that they are developed and maintained
5.3. assisting students obtain approvals for their absence from the University and their due entitlements from the Faculty
5.4. ensuring that the Executive Dean is kept informed if problems which would affect the program occur during a candidature.

Creating a research ethos

6. The supervisor is responsible for:
6.1. encouraging the candidate to participate in the activities of the Faculty and University such as research activities, presentations, seminars and colloquia
6.2. encouraging the candidate to participate in appropriate research training activities offered within and outside the University
6.3. encouraging the candidate to extend professional activities across the Faculty.

Developing the thesis

7. The supervisor is responsible for:
7.1. assisting in the development of a suitable project management plan within which the thesis can be produced
7.2. ensuring that they give appropriate and timely advice on requirements regarding content, style, presentation and production of the candidate's thesis
7.3. encouraging the preparation of draft sections of the thesis in accordance with the project management plan developed, and providing prompt feedback on a reasonable number of submitted drafts
7.4. nominating to the Executive Dean appropriate examiners in a timely fashion before the thesis is submitted
7.5. ensuring that the candidate prepares the written and oral confirmation by the due date.

Authorship and intellectual property

8. The supervisor is responsible for:
8.1. ensuring that the candidate has included a declaration of authorship and a statement of authenticity in their thesis
8.2. reaching agreement with the candidate at the outset of the research, concerning authorship of publications and acknowledgment of contributions. In normal circumstances, it is expected that the candidate will be the senior author on publications that arise directly from their studies except where another arrangement is agreed mutually
8.3. encouraging open and mutual recognition of the candidate's and supervisor's contribution on all published work arising from the thesis
8.4. informing the candidate of any requirements for collaborators to complete a statement of authorship in respect of any paper submitted for publication during the candidature and the final thesis
8.5. informing the candidate of their rights with respect to intellectual property and encouraging, where appropriate, the exploitation of such intellectual property through the University.

Ethics issues

9. The supervisor is responsible for:
9.1. advising the candidate of applicable:
9.1.1. government, institutional and University guidelines for the conduct of research, including requirements relating to ethical approvals for research involving human or animal subjects
9.1.2. guidelines for the use of potentially hazardous agents
9.2. informing the candidate of any requirements regarding the retention and confidentiality of data
9.3. avoiding pressure on candidates to teach or undertake other duties not directly related to their research. Any such activities should be undertaken only by mutual agreement
9.4. avoiding exploitation of the power relationship that exists, whether in matters related directly or indirectly to the progress of the candidate's studies
9.5. informing the candidate of issues in the University's Code of Conduct - Governing Policy.

Supervisor/candidate contact and program management

10. The supervisor is responsible for:
10.1. stimulating, supporting and encouraging the candidate
10.1.1. let the candidate know of relevant publications, seminars, conferences, etc. that may be available in the area of research to help the candidate stay motivated
10.1.2. always give appropriate and timely praise, suggestions, constructive criticism on work that the candidate has given for reviewing
10.2. reaching agreement with the candidate on the contact that will be necessary and negotiating different contact arrangements from time to time as may be necessary
10.2.1. the time given to supervision will vary depending on the stage of the candidate's program. This must be negotiated between the candidate and the supervisor
10.3. ensuring that commitments made in respect of availability and conduct are met by the supervisor and the candidate
10.4. maintaining regular contact with the candidate and any collaborating supervisors or institution where a candidate undertakes a significant proportion of their study under joint supervision or at a host organisation;
10.5. encouraging the candidate to make productive use of their time
10.6. assisting the candidate to establish a work schedule and reaching agreement upon indicators of progress, submission of appropriate work, interim reports or study results
10.7. providing a flow of evaluative comment
10.8. returning written work to the candidate with constructive criticism within one month of submission or as agreed mutually
10.9. monitoring progress made within the context of the overall research plan and ensuring that sufficient time is left for compiling the thesis;
10.10. assistance in clarifying and resolving emerging problems as the research progresses
10.11. arranging seminars or other fora for wider audience participation and feedback.

Progress reporting

11. The supervisor is responsible for:
11.1. evaluating the candidate's progress in accordance with the Academic Policy for their degree
11.3. providing feedback on progress to the candidate, and in the event of inadequate progress or of standards of work below that generally expected for the degree, identifying the problems and suggesting ways of addressing them
11.4. reporting the progress of each candidate to the Cost Centre Manager/ Head of School/ Executive Dean of Faculty (as appropriate) as part of the PPR process.

Delegation

12. The supervisor is responsible for:
12.1. when any of the above responsibilities are wholly or partly delegated to another supervisor or University staff member, ensuring that all supervisors concerned and the candidate are informed of the delegation
12.2. notifying the Executive Dean immediately if they are aware of their inability or any inability by any supervisor to fulfil any of the responsibilities outlined in this document or if there is a breakdown in the candidate-supervisor relationship.

Candidate's responsibilities

A candidate is particularly responsible for:

1. The content, authenticity, acknowledgment, style and presentation, and production of the thesis that is finally presented
2. Making any revisions required after examination
3. Exploring with the supervisor and the University, the possible exploitation of any Invention or other intellectual property arising from the research carried out by the candidate.

Clarifying expectations and basic information

4. Clarifying Faculty and University
4.1. Policies;
4.2. financial support; and
4.3. problem-solving mechanisms
5. Establishing with their supervisor agreed methods of working and fulfilling any requirements for the proposed degree
6. Undertaking any coursework, supporting studies, training or other activities required by the supervisors, Faculty or University
7. Familiarising themselves with the administrative requirements for the degree in which they are enrolled and any Faculty or University guidelines relating to that degree and postgraduate work in general
8. Ensuring that all the administrative requirements of the Faculty and the University are met, such as:
8.1. re-enrolling each semester
8.2. notifying the Research Training Officer details of any changes to the candidature
8.3. if appropriate, notifying the Research Training Officer of any intention to transfer to another institution or to withdraw from the program.

Defining and developing the research area

9. Defining and choosing the research area
10. Obtaining approval for research proposals
11. Planning and completing the written and oral confirmation within the time limit.

Monitoring facilities and circumstances of candidate

12. Clarifying with the supervisor the facilities and conditions expected by the candidate to complete the proposed research thesis
13. Administrative requirements and relevant support services available through the University
14. Devoting sufficient time to the candidature
15. Applying for any University or Faculty approvals needed to spend time away from the University, whether as part of the candidature or under suspension.

Creating a research ethos

16. Participating in the opportunities offered by the University to be part of that intellectual community.

Developing the thesis

17. Planning and executing the thesis within the time limits defined for the proposed degree
18. Ensuring that there is sufficient time allocated to write up the thesis and ascertaining what is necessary in terms of content, style and presentation
19. Submitting the thesis by the due date established by the University.

Authorship and intellectual property

20. Ensuring that a declaration of authorship and a statement of authenticity is included with any papers submitted for publication and with the final thesis
21. Coming to an agreement with the supervisors for fair recognition of the candidate's and supervisors’ contributions on all published work arising from the thesis.

Ethics issues

22. Familiarising themselves with government and professional codes for the conduct of research and ensuring that the necessary ethical clearances of experiments involving animal or human subjects are obtained before commencement of a study
23. Adopting at all times safe working practices relevant to the field of the research and complying with the University Health and Safety - Governing Policy
24. Not initiating contact with the examiners regarding the thesis during the examination period, which includes any period of minor or major revision of the thesis when the examiner will be involved in the re-examination.

Supervisor/candidate contact and program management

25. Playing an informed part in the process of the selection and appointment of supervisors
26. Clarifying with supervisors what each expects of the other;
27. Acquainting themselves with mechanisms that exist for helping with candidate-supervisor difficulties and taking advantaged of them if necessary;
28. Notifying the Executive Dean immediately if they are aware of their inability or any inability by any supervisor to fulfil any of the responsibilities outlined in this document or if there is a breakdown in the candidate-supervisor relationship
29. Where there is no supervisor specified for a candidature, clarifying the delegations of other supervisors or University staff members.

Progress reporting

30. Attending agreed consultation and providing evidence of the progress being made including submission of any information required for this process
31. Maintaining regular contact with the University and particularly with the supervisor when pursuing part of the research program at a host organisation or when on field trips
32. Drawing the supervisor's attention to any difficulties being experienced and sharing responsibility for seeking solutions
33. Completing the candidate’s section of the formal semi-annual progress reports, providing evidence of progress in relation to chapters completed and the like.

Appendix 3: Criteria for admission to, and to maintain registration on the Register of Supervisors

Quality supervision of Research Higher Degrees is an important university priority as it leads to research outcomes in the form of career and professional development of academic staff and production of good research publications that enhance the reputation of the university. Accordingly, it is important that HDR supervisors are appropriately experienced and qualified to guide and mentor their candidates throughout their HDR journey.

There are three types of supervisors for HDR candidates at USC:

Supervisor: this is the primary academic contact for the candidate. Supervisors must be admitted to the Register of Supervisors.

Co-Supervisor: this supervisor is an additional academic contact for the candidate, and must be an experienced supervisor where the primary supervisor has not yet supervised a candidate to the successful completion of their degree. Co-supervisors must be admitted to the Register of Supervisors.

Associate Supervisor: this supervisor may be external to USC, and might play a relatively minor role on the supervision panel. Associate supervisors are not required to be admitted to the register of supervisors at USC.

Staff will be admitted to the Register of Supervisors for Doctoral and Master Level Research Degrees if they meet the following criteria:

1. An academic appointment at the University for at least three years (in the case of a fixed-term or Adjunct appointment) from the date of their application to be admitted to the Register;

2. A doctoral or master level research degree (it is expected that supervisors would hold a research degree at least equivalent to that in which the student they were supervising had enrolled);

3. Successful supervision of a HDR candidate to completion of their degree within the last five years (supervisors who have not supervised a HDR candidate to successful completion of their degree must include an experienced co-supervisor on their supervision panel/s to mentor them in their first complete supervision experience);

4. Participation in at least one supervision related professional development activity in the last year, and continuing participation in at least one activity each year which may include mentoring, or facilitating a workshop for, less experienced supervisors;

5. Supervisors should have evidence of research activity in the previous three collection years including at least one of:

• DIISR Reportable Research Income
• DIISR Reportable Research Publication
• Research Master or Doctoral degree (HDR) completion

Supervisors who do not meet these criteria may be Associate Supervisors.


END

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