Foreword
Research training is a core activity of the University of Melbourne. Our graduate research students are crucial to the research profile of the university, with candidates' activity contributing significantly to the university's research output, national and international profile.
The Melbourne School of Graduate Research has an important role within the University's research environment, supporting the highest standards of graduate research administration and offering a range of academic activities that contribute to the success of the University's PhD programs.
This PhD Handbook is an expression of our commitment to quality assurance and excellence in PhD administration. The Handbook is designed to be an accessible document incorporating the policy decisions of the Research Higher Degrees Committee and the Academic Board. Any policy changes that are made during the year will be reflected on the Handbook website.
The Handbook is also a resource to guide students, supervisors and heads of departments through enrolment, changes to candidature, submission and examination procedures. It provides information on the Code of Conduct for Research, Ethics Approval and Intellectual Property. Appendix A includes the Responsibilities of Candidates, Principles for PhD Supervision and Responsibilities of Academic Departments to PhD Students. Appendix B provides details of legislation and the Prescriptions of the Academic Board pursuant to that legislation as at December 2008.
I would encourage you to read through this Handbook early in your candidature and familiarise yourself with the rules governing your degree, and the various milestones such as confirmation and examination. You should consult your supervisor if you are unsure about what the regulations imply, and the Handbook should be retained so that you can refer to the content as needed.
If, at any stage, you have queries or concerns regarding any aspect of your candidature, please contact the Melbourne School of Graduate Research for assistance and advice.
Professor Dick Strugnell
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Graduate Research)
Melbourne School of Graduate Research
June 2009