Foreword
Research training is a keystone of the University of Melbourne and a public measure of its excellence. Our graduate research students are widely recognised as being crucial to the research profile of the university, with candidates' activity contributing significantly to the university's research output, publication count and funding.
The Melbourne School of Graduate Research has an important role within the University's research environment, striving to create and support the highest standards of graduate research administration and offering a range of support mechanisms that contribute to the success of our PhD candidates.
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 during the year can will be reflected on this site.
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 November 2007.
In September 2008 the University will be delivering a new University wide Student System which will transform the way in which students, academics and administrators interact. The Student System Project plays an important role in facilitating the implementation of key aspects of Growing Esteem and the Melbourne Model, and the development of a distinctive Melbourne Experience through student-centred services and programs. There will be changes to the procedure for many of the transactions described in the 2008 PhD handbook associated with changes to candidature, such as applying for leave of absence, and these transactions will be managed through the Student Centres.
Communication to students about changes is important and the School of Graduate Research will endeavour to keep the University's PhD student cohort informed.
I would encourage you to read through this Handbook early in your candidature and familiarise yourself with its overall content. Then, file it somewhere safe so you can come back to areas of relevance as you progress through your degree.
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)
School of Graduate Research December 2007