Higher Degree Research Regulations
The Higher Degree Research Regulations relate to all courses at the University which meet the relevant Australian Government standards for classification as research higher degrees or professional doctorates under the Australian Qualifications Framework.
These Regulations should be read in conjunction with the University’s Academic Regulations, which will apply in relation to the administration of Taught Units within research higher degrees and in the event of the Higher Degree Research Regulations being silent on any matter. Unless advised to the contrary, the Higher Degree Research Regulations will have priority over the Academic Regulations. Other requirements specific to individual courses should be read in conjunction with these Regulations.
- The ACU Glossary of Terms, available on the ACU website, provides guidance on the meaning of terms used in the University. In these Regulations, the following terms will have the meanings set out below.
- Assistant Supervisor is an ACU academic staff member who has been appointed by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research on the basis of being on track to being research active; they provide advice to a candidate under the close supervision of the Principal Supervisor.
- Associate Dean Research is a person responsible to the Executive Dean of the Faculty, to assist the Executive Dean in their role of providing academic and research leadership in the Faculty, in particular, research, research training and research partnerships.
- Associate Supervisor is a person external to ACU who has been invited by the Associate Dean Research to contribute expertise in a specialised area of research supervision, or who has been asked to assist and advise, as appropriate, a candidate in the undertaking of the relevant degree requirements.
- Code of Conduct of Research means that Code as promulgated by the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council, and as adopted and amended from time-to-time by the Academic Board and Senate of the University.
- Co-supervisor is an ACU academic staff member who has been appointed by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research to work with the Principal Supervisor in the provision of guidance and assistance to a candidate in the undertaking of the relevant degree requirements.
- Doctorate or Doctoral refers to the Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought, and/or Doctor of Education, according to the context.
- Executive Dean means the Executive Dean of the relevant Faculty.
- External Examiner means an examiner who, during the period of candidature, has not been a member of the academic staff of the University, has not recently taught an examinable unit or course at the University, has not acted as a Supervisor of the candidate, does not have a personal relationship with the candidate or their Supervisors, and has not published with the Supervisors within the last five years.
- Faculty Board refers to the Board of a particular Faculty.
- Graduate Research, located within the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, is the office responsible for administering the day-to-day requirements of the thesis component of research higher degrees.
- Intellectual Property Policy means that Policy as adopted and amended from time-to-time by the Academic Board and Senate of the University.
- Principal Supervisor is an ACU academic staff member who has been appointed by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research to lead a team of two or more Supervisors in the provision of guidance and assistance to a candidate in the undertaking of the relevant degree requirements.
- Pro Vice-Chancellor Research is the person who supports the work of the Deputy Vice- Chancellor Research, to ensure commitment to the highest standards of research and research training.
- Research Higher Degree is a degree which meets the specifications of the Commonwealth Government department responsible for determining the requirements for research higher degrees. It includes master-by-research and doctoral degrees and excludes master-by-coursework and honours degrees.
The Australian Qualifications Framework states that, master level research will produce an advanced body of knowledge that includes the understanding of recent developments in one or more disciplines and demonstrates the candidate’s capacity to critically evaluate, synthesise, and integrate information. It will also demonstrate the candidate’s ability to formulate a research question, design an investigation, and draw appropriate conclusions, and to present evidence in a manner consistent with the expectations of the discipline. In addition to all of the above, doctoral research will produce a substantial body of knowledge at the frontier of a field of work or learning, including knowledge that constitutes an original contribution.
- Research Institute is one of ACU's formally recognised research groupings established after 2013.
- School means the relevant School of the University.
- Supervisor, used generically, includes the Principal Supervisor, Co-Supervisor, Assistant Supervisor and/or Associate Supervisor, as appropriate, according to the context.
- Thesis means any written dissertation in fulfilment of two thirds or more of the degree requirements, and includes, in the case of music (composition), a composition portfolio consisting of tapes and/or scores together with a written dissertation of no less than fifty pages.
- University refers to Australian Catholic University.
- URC is the University Research Committee, a standing committee of the Academic Board, which administers research higher degrees.
The Higher Degree Research Regulations apply to the designated degrees of master and doctor listed in the Schedule of Research Higher Degrees. Other requirements specific to individual courses should be read in conjunction with these Regulations. It is the responsibility of candidates to ensure the accuracy of their enrolment in accordance with the course requirements and these Regulations.
3.1 The URC is responsible for the administration of research higher degrees, subject to the general supervision of the Academic Board. The Chair of the URC may act executively out-of-session on behalf of the Committee, subject to any action being reported to the Committee at its next meeting.
The URC will report regularly to the Academic Board and make recommendations on the award of research higher degrees directly to the Board.
3.2 The relevant Faculty Research Committee or equivalent, under the general supervision of the Faculty Board, will administer the coursework component of doctorates and master-by-research degrees, identified in the Schedule of Research Higher Degrees.
3.3 Designated Officers in Graduate Research are authorised to action matters approved by the URC.
- An appropriate undergraduate degree with Honours at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinvtion average) (or equivalent); or
- A master degree with appropriate research training in a relevant field; or
- An equivalent qualification and/or demonstrated research experience, with evidence of capacity to undertake independent research work (e.g. an authored publication).
- A Bachelor of Arts with Honours at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinction average) (or equivalent); and
- A research proposal indicating alignment with the mission of the Institute for Social Justice.
- A master degree in education (or equivalent), with an credit average or higher; and
- At least five years' relevant work experience.
- An appropriate undergraduate degree with Honours at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinction average); or
- Postgraduate research training(e.g. coursework completed to distinction level or higher or a master-by-coursework degree); or
- Demonstrated research experience with evidence of capacity to undertake independent research work (eg an authored publication).
- A four-year Bachelor of Education degree (or equivalent) with a credit average or higher.
- An undergraduate degree in Theology (or equivalent) with Honours at a minimum level of Second Class Division A; or
- A Master of Theological Studies with a distinction average or higher in THEL623 Theology Project C and THEL619 Introduction to Theological and Philosophical Research (or equivalent); and
- A specialisation in one of the theological disciplines, or philosophy as it relates to theology.
4.3 English Language Proficiency
An applicant seeking admission on the basis of a qualification undertaken in a language other than English must satisfy the English language proficiency requirements set by the University.
5.1 Application for Admission to a Research Higher Degree
5.1.1 A person seeking admission to a research higher degree will make application to the University, via Graduate Research, on the prescribed form.
5.1.2 Applications for admission to most research higher degrees will be accepted twice a year, although some Faculties have specific closing dates for some degrees. Applicants should check the website, or consult the appropriate Faculty, to confirm the closing date for their degree program.
5.1.3 An applicant who has previously been enrolled as a doctoral or master- by-research candidate at ACU or another institution and who has failed the examination for that degree will not be admitted as a candidate for the same research higher degree at ACU, or be allowed to resubmit materials for examination.
5.2 Criteria Used in Assessing an Application for Admission
The matters to be taken into account in assessing an application for admission to a research higher degree may include:
- the academic record and any other qualifications and professional experience of the applicant relevant to the proposed course of study and research;
- Academic referees' reports, demonstrating the capacity of the candidate to undertake research in the proposed area of study;
- the scope, quality and feasibility of the research proposal;
- the availability of suitable Supervisors;
- the relevance of the proposed research project to the strategic direction of the School/Research Institute/Faculty/University;
- performance at a selection interview, or in a written task, where appropriate; and
- other relevant material, as requested by the Associate Dean Research or Pro Vice-Chancellor Research. All such material will be accompanied by a statement from the applicant specifying the extent to which the applicant has been responsible for its preparation.
5.3 Proposed Program of Advanced Study and Research
5.3.1 Before making a recommendation to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research about whether the applicant should be admitted, the Associate Dean Research must be satisfied, after consultation with the National Head of School/Research Institute Director, and such other persons as may be appropriate, that:
- the program of research is appropriate for the degree;
- the program of research aligns with the School/Research Institute/Faculty research strategy;
- the applicant has adequate training and background or experience to pursue such a program; and
- adequate Supervisors, University support, and facilities necessary for the pursuit of the proposed research are available.
5.3.2 The Pro Vice-Chancellor Research is responsible for approving applications for admission to research higher degrees.
5.4 Candidates Transferring from Other Institutions
5.4.1 An applicant who meets the eligibility criteria, and who has maintained an acceptable standard of work at master-by-research or doctoral level at another institution, may apply for admission to a research higher degree at ACU.
5.4.2The University will set in place the minimum length of candidature to be completed at ACU prior to the submission of the thesis. Normally, this period will be set as a minimum of one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent).
5.5 Deferment of Admission
5.5.1 An offer of admission in a research higher degree may not normally be deferred beyond six months from the date on which the offer was made.
5.5.2 A candidate wishing to defer their offer beyond six months must request approval from the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research. The Pro Vice-Chancellor Research will take into account the resources, including Supervisors, likely to be available to support the candidate at the deferred enrolment date when considering the request.
5.6 Termination of Enrolment in the Event of Fraudulent Basis of Admission
The University will terminate the enrolment of a candidate found to have been admitted on the basis of fraudulent or misleading information, including a plagiarised or partially plagiarised research proposal. Fees paid will be forfeited.
6.1 The provisions of the Academic Regulations apply in relation to any application for credit towards a coursework component of a research higher degree.
6.2 Credit of prior enrolment for candidates transferring into a research higher degree from another institution will not normally exceed two years full-time (or part-time equivalent) in the case of a doctorate, or one year full-time (or part-time equivalent) in the case of a master-by-research.
7.1 Requirements for Enrolment
An applicant who has been offered a place in a research higher degree must complete the required enrolment procedures by the due date. Enrolment is not complete until all relevant University and government fees and charges have been paid or approved payment arrangements have been made.
7.2 Withdrawal from Enrolment
7.2.1 A candidate may withdraw their enrolment at any time. Before doing so, however, a candidate is strongly advised to seek the advice of their Principal Supervisor and Associate Dean Research.
7.2.2 A candidate must inform Graduate Research in writing of their withdrawal and of the date on which it should take effect.
7.3 Reinstatement of Enrolment after Withdrawal from ACU
7.3.1 A candidate wishing to have their enrolment reinstated following withdrawal from ACU must make written application to the Associate Dean Research within two years of the date of the withdrawal.
7.3.2 The Associate Dean Research may recommend reinstatement of enrolment to the Pro-Vice Chancellor Research after taking into account:
- the reasons for withdrawal and the standing of the candidate at the time of withdrawal;
- the time consumed thus far in candidature; and
- wheather the research and the thesis can retain academic currency and be satisfactorily completed within the time remaining to the candidate.
7.3.3 If the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research approves the reinstatement of enrolment, the commencement of candidature will be the date of the original enrolment, and the total period remaining in the candidature will be the duration of the degree minus the period of original enrolment.
7.4 Concurrent Enrolment
7.4.1 A full-time candidate enrolled in a research higher degree may not normally enrol or remain enrolled in any other academic program at ACU or any other institution.
7.4.2 Exceptions to Regulation 7.4.1 include:
- where an ACU staff member enrolled in a doctoral program is required to undertake the Graduate Certificate in Higher Education (GCHE) as part of their probation criteria. Under such circumstances the staff member may be granted a six month suspension of candidature to study the GCHE. This period is in addition to the 12 month suspension of candidature allowed within the candidature; and
- where a candidate is also enrolled in the Master of Psychology (Clinical) or the Master of Psychology (Educational and Developmental).
8.1 Commencement Date of Candidature
The date of commencement of candidature will be determined by Graduate Research and will be at the two prescribed intake dates per year.
8.2 Enrolment Status
8.2.1 A domestic applicant may be enrolled as either a full-time candidate or a part-time candidate.
8.2.2 An international applicant may only be enrolled as a full-time candidate.
8.2.3 An international applicant will be enrolled as an onshore candidate.
8.3 Duration of Candidature
8.3.1 A candidate enrolled in a research higher degree will normally complete the degree requirements within the period indicated in the Schedule of Research Higher Degrees.
8.3.2 Duration of candidature will not be less than one year full-time (or part-time equivalent).
8.3.3 A period of extension of candidature may be permitted under certain circumstances (refer Regulation 12.4).
8.3.4 A domestic candidate who is in receipt of a Research Training Program Fees Offset Scholarship, will be required to pay tuition fees, as set by the University, if they have been enrolled for more than three years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) in a doctoral degree or more than two years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) in the Master of Philosophy, Master of Education (Research) or Master of Health Sciences (Research).
8.3.5 A domestic candidate who is in receipt of a Research Training Program Fees Offset Scholarship, will be required to pay tuition fees, as set by the University, if they have been enrolled for more than four years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) in the Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought.
8.3.6 A domestic candidate who is in receipt of a Research Training Program Fees Offset Scholarship, will be required to pay tuition fees, as set by the University, if they have been enrolled for more than one year of full-time study in the Master of Theology (Research).
9.1 These Regulations should be read in conjunction with the Policy for Higher Degree Research Student Supervision.
9.2 The Associate Dean Research, in consultation with the National Head of School/Research Institute Director, is responsible for recommending to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research a candidate’s Supervisors.
9.3 As a minimum, two ACU accredited Supervisors, a Principal and a Co-supervisor, will be appointed to a candidate. An Assistant and/or Associate Supervisor may also be appointed, as appropriate.
9.4 The Executive Dean is required to provide an assurance of continuity of expert supervision for the duration of candidature in the field of study.
9.5 All Supervisors will follow the procedures outlined in the Policy for Higher Degree Research Student Supervision.
9.6 If a Principal Supervisor is to be absent from the University for more than one month, the Principal Supervisor needs to notify the Associate Dean Research immediately. The Associate Dean Research, in consultation the relevant National Head of School/Research Institute Director, will ensure that appropriate supervisory arrangements are in place to support the candidate and will notify Graduate Research within 5 working days.
9.7 A candidate may request a review of their supervision arrangements and the appointment of a new Supervisor/s. Such a request will be considered by the Associate Dean Research, who will take into account the views of the Principal Supervisor and Co-Supervisor, available supervisory capacity in the Faculty, and the academic progress of the candidate.
9.8 The Pro Vice-Chancellor Research is responsible for appointing a candidate’s ACU supervisors, i.e. the Principal Supervisor, Co-supervisor and, where relevant, Assistant Supervisor.10.1 Confirmation of Candidature
The Confirmation of Candidature process comprises the submission of a chapter, a progress report and a verbal presentation that will be assessed by a Confirmation of Candidature Panel.
10.1.1 Any mandated coursework should have been successfully completed prior to confirmation. Confirmation of Candidature will normally occur:
- for a Doctor of Education candidate, within twelve months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (twenty-four months for a part-time candidate);
- for a Doctor of Philosophy candidate, within six months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (twelve months for a part-time candidate);
- for a Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought candidate, within twenty-four months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (forty-eight months for a part-time candidate);
- for a Master of Philosophy candidate, within six months for enrolment as a full-time candidate (twelve months for a part-time candidate);
- for a Master of Education (Research) or Master of Health Sciences Research (Discipline), within twelve months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (twenty-four months for a part-time candidate); and
- for a Master of Theology (Research) candidate, within three months of full-time enrolment (six months for a part-time candidate)
10.1.2 The Confirmation of Candidature Panel will comprise, as a minimum:
- the Associate Dean Research, or nominee who is a senior researcher with an established high-quality track record in the discipline, as Chair;
- the Principal Supervisor and Co-Supervisor; and
- two researchers with an established high-quality track record in the discipline or cognate area.
Where the candidate is also an ACU staff member the Associate Dean Research may vary the panel composition so as to minimise potential conflicts of interest and ensure greater objectivity of the confirmation process.
In all cases, the Associate Dean Research is responsible for approving the Confirmation of Candidature Panel in accordance with the Regulations.
10.1.3 The Confirmation of Candidature panel will assess the quality of the work undertaken since commencement of candidature, the feasibility of the project to be completed in a timely manner and the rate of progress made since commencement of candidature.
10.1.4 Following consideration of the report prepared by the Confirmation of Candidature Panel, the Associate Dean Research will make one of the following recommendations to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research:
- the candidature of the candidate is to be confirmed;
- the candidature of the candidate is to be terminated; or
- the candidate is to be required to re-present their written submission and/or presentation within three months (six months for part-time candidates).
10.1.5 Following consideration of the recommendation made by the Associate Dean Research, the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research will either:
- confirm the candidature of the candidate;
- terminate the candidature of the candidate; or
- require the candidate to re-present their written submission and/or presentation within three months (six months for part-time candidates).
10.1.6 A candidate who re-presents their written submission and presentation within three months (or within six months for a part-time candidate) and is still not confirmed will have their enrolment terminated.
10.1.7 A candidate who has their enrolment terminated for failing Confirmation of Candidature may, under certain circumstances, request a review of the decision (refer Regulation 21).
10.1.8 A candidate who has transferred to ACU from another institution, and can provide evidence that their candidature was confirmed at their former institution to the satisfaction of the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research, will be exempted from the confirmation of candidature process at ACU.
10.2 Mid-Candidature Review
The Mid-Candidature Review process comprises the submission of two chapters, separate to the chapter submitted at Confirmation of Candidature (or papers if planning to undertake a PhD with publication), a progress report and a verbal presentation that will be assessed by a Mid-Candidature Review Panel.
10.2.1 Mid-Candidature Review will normally occur:
- for a Doctor of Education candidate, within twenty-two months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (forty-four months for a part-time candidate);
- for a Doctor of Philosophy candidate, within eighteen months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (thirty-six months for a part-time candidate);
- for a Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought candidate, within thirty-six months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (seventy-two months for a part-time candidate);
- for a Master of Philosophy candidate, within twelve months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (twenty-four months for a part-time candidate); and
- for a Master of Education (Research) or Master of Health Sciences Research (Discipline), within eighteen months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (thirty-six months for a part-time candidate).
- for a Master of Theology (Research) candidate, within six months of full-time enrolment (twelve months for a part-time candidate)
10.2.2 The Mid-Candidature Review Panel will comprise, as a minimum:
- the Associate Dean Research, or nominee who is a senior researcher with an established high-quality track record in the discipline, as Chair;
- the Principal Supervisor and Co-Supervisor; and
- two researchers with an established high-quality track record in the discipline or cognate area.
Where the candidate is also an ACU staff member the Associate Dean Research may vary the panel composition so as to minimise potential conflicts of interest and ensure greater objectivity of the confirmation process.
In all cases, the Associate Dean Research is responsible for approving the Mid-Candidature Review Panel in accordance with the Regulations.
10.2.3 The Mid-Candidature Review Panel will assess the quality of the work undertaken since confirmation of candidature, the feasibility of the project to be completed in a timely manner and the rate of progress made since confirmation of candidature.
10.2.4 Following consideration of the report prepared by the Mid-Candidature Review Panel, the Associate Dean Research will make one of the following recommendations to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research:
- the candidature of the candidate is to be continued;
- the candidature of the candidate is to be terminated; or
- the candidate is to be required to re-present their written submission and/or presentation within three months (six months for part-time candidates).
- confirm the candidature to continue;
- terminate the candidature of the candidate; or
- require the candidate to re-present their written submission and/or presentation within three months (six months for part-time candidates).
10.2.6 A candidate who re-presents their written submission and presentation within three months (or within six months for a part-time candidate) and who does not successfully complete their mid-candidature review will have their enrolment terminated.
10.2.7 A candidate who has their enrolment terminated for not successfully completing their mid-candidature review may, under certain circumstances, request a review of the decision (refer Regulation 21).
10.3 The Final Year Review
The Final Year Review process comprises the submission of two chapters, or papers (if submitting a PhD with Publication) that have not been previously reviewed at the Confirmation of Candidature Panel or at the Mid-Candidature Review, a progress report and a verbal presentation that will be assessed by the Final Year Review Panel.
10.3.1 The Final Year Review seminar will normally occur
- for a Doctor of Education candidate, within thirty-two months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (sixty-four months for a part-time candidate)
- for a Doctor of Philosophy candidate, within thirty months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (sixty months for a part-time candidate)
- for a Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought candidate, within forty-two months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (eighty-four months for a part-time candidate)
- for a Master of Philosophy candidate, within eighteen months of enrolment as a full-time candidate ( thirty-six months for a part-time candidate)
- for a Master of Education (Research) or a Master of Health Sciences Research (Discipline) candidate, within twenty-one months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (forty-two months for a part-time candidate)
- for a Master of Theology (Research) candidate, within nine months of enrolment as a full-time candidate (eighteen months for a part-time candidate)
10.3.2 The Final Year Review Panel will comprise, as a minimum
- the Associate Dean Research, or nominee who is a senior researcher with an established high-quality track record in the discipline, as Chair;
- the Principal and Co-Supervisors, and, where relevant, the Assistant Supervisor and Associate Supervisor; and
- two researchers with an established high-quality track record in the discipline or cognate area.
Where the candidate is also an ACU staff member the Associate Dean Research may vary the panel composition so as to minimise potential conflicts of interest and ensure greater objectivity of the process.
In all cases, the Associate Dean Research is responsible for approving the composition of a Final Year Review Panel in accordance with the Regulations.
10.3.3 The Final Year Review Panel will assess the quality of the work undertaken since Mid-Candidature Review, the feasibility of the project to be completed in the timely manner and the rate of progress made since the mid-candidature review.
10.3.4 Following consideration of the report prepared by the Final Year Review Panel, the Associate Dean Research will make one of the following recommendations to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research:
- the candidate proceed to submission of the thesis;
- require the candidate to re-present their written submission and/or presentation within three months (six months for part-time candidates); or
- terminate the candidature.
- approve the candidature to be continued;
- terminate the candidature of the candidate; or
- require the candidate to re-present their written submission and/or presentation within three months (six months for part-time candidates).
10.3.6 A candidate who re-presents their written submission and presentation within three months (or six months for a part-time candidate) and who does not successfully complete their Final Year Review will have their enrolment terminated.
10.3.7 A candidate who has their enrolment terminated for not successfully completing their Final Year Review may, under certain circumstances, request a review of the decision (refer Regulation 21).
10.4 Work-in-Progress Activities
10.4.1 After confirmation of candidature, a candidate is required to present, on an annual basis, the progress they have made on their research.
- Part-Time Doctoral candidates are required, in years 2, 4 and 5 to present the progress they have made on their research since Confirmation of Candidature and Mid-Candidature Review, respectively.
- Part-Time Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought candidates are required, in years 4, 6 and 7, to present the progress they have made on their research since Confirmation of Candidature and Mid-Candidature Review, respectively.
- Part-Time Doctor of Education candidates are required, in years 3 and 5 to present the progress they have made on their research since Confirmation of Candidature and Mid-Candidature Review, respectively.
- Part-Time Master of Philosophy candidates are required, in year 3, to present the progress they have made in their research since the Mid-Candidature Review.
- a presentation at a School, Research Institute or Faculty seminar/colloquium;
- participation in the Three Minute Thesis Competition; or
- presentation of a paper or poster at an external conference.
11.1 Upgrade to a Doctoral Degree
11.1.1 A Master of Philosophy candidate who has been confirmed in their current degree and can demonstrate that the scope of their research has changed and would now be considered that of a Doctoral level, may apply to the Associate Dean Research to upgrade to the Doctor of Philosophy.
A Master of Education (Research) candidate who has been confirmed in their current degree and can demonstrate that the scope of their research has changed and would now be considered that of a Doctoral level, may apply to the Associate Dean Research to upgrade to the Doctor of Education.
A candidate can not apply for an upgrade after twelve (12) months (or twenty-four (24) months for part-time candidates) of enrolment.
11.1.2 In making application for an upgrade, a candidate must clearly demonstrate how the extended research meets the expectations of doctoral level research (refer definitions in Regulation 1). The application will involve a written submission as well as a presentation to an Upgrade Panel.
11.1.3 An application for upgrade will be assessed on:- academic merit, with consideration given to the quality of the candidate’s proposal and whether it meets the expectations of doctoral level research;
- the candidate’s performance in the degree thus far;
- the candidate’s academic history; and
- the report of the Upgrade Panel.
- the Associate Dean Research, or nominee as approved by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research, as Chair;
- the Principal Supervisor and Co-Supervisor; and
- two researchers with an established high-quality track record in the discipline or cognate area.
- Where the candidate is also an ACU staff member the Associate Dean Research may vary the panel composition so as to minimise potential conflicts of interest and ensure greater objectivity of the upgrade process.
- In all cases, the Associate Dean Research is responsible for approving the Upgrade Panel in accordance with the Regulations.
- the candidate should be permitted to upgrade to the nominated doctoral program; or
- the candidate should not be permitted to upgrade to the nominated doctoral program.
- to approve the candidate’s application for an upgrade to the nominated doctoral program; or
- to refuse the candidate’s application for an upgrade to the nominated doctoral program, in which case the candidate will remain enrolled in the master-by-research degree.
11.1.7 If a request for an upgrade is approved, the commencement date of candidature will be backdated by a period of time equal to that part of the applicant's candidature for the master-by-research degree.
11.1.8 A candidate who has their application for an upgrade refused may request a review of the decision (refer Regulation 21).
12.1 Application to Vary Conditions of Candidature
12.1.1 A candidate may make application:
- for a course load change from full-time to part-time enrolment (or vice-versa) for the whole or any part of the course (excluding international candidates);
- for sick leave* from candidature;
- for maternity leave* from candidature;
- for paternity leave* from candidature;
- for a suspension of candidature due to illness or other personal issues; and
- for an extension of candidature
* Leave entitlements for candidates are set out in Appendix B.
12.1.2 An application must be made on the prescribed form and set out in full the reasons for the request, as well as provide documentary evidence as requested by the School/Research Institute/Faculty/Graduate Research.
12.1.3 Due to Commonwealth Government reporting requirements, retrospective applications to vary candidature will not be approved.
12.2 Suspension of Candidature
12.2.1 Requests for a suspension of candidature will not exceed:
- a maximum of 12 months of full-time enrolment (or 24 months for part-time enrolment) for a doctoral candidate; and,
- a maximum of six months of full-time enrolment (or 12 months for part-time enrolment) for a master-by-research candidate.
12.2.2 Requests for a suspension of candidature will not be approved until a candidate has been confirmed in their candidature. Exceptions will be considered for medical and maternity-related conditions.
12.2.3 Requests for a suspension of candidature that relate to a medical condition must be accompanied by a medical certificate.
12.2.4 The Associate Dean Research is responsible for approving requests for a suspension of candidature within the timeframes specified in Regulation 12.2.1.
12.2.5 A candidate who has exceeded the suspension provisions in section 12.2.1 above, may, in exceptional circumstances, apply to the Pro- Vice Chancellor Research for a further suspension of candidature, as follows:
- a maximum of six months of full-time enrolment (or twelve months part-time enrolment) for a doctoral candidate; and,
- a maximum of three months of full-time enrolment (or six months of part-time enrolment) for a master-by-research candidate.
12.2.6 A candidate on an approved suspension of their candidature is not entitled to supervision or the use of any University facilities or resources for the duration of the suspension.
12.3 Resumption of Candidature Following a Period of Approved Leave or a Suspension of Candidature
12.3.1 A candidate who fails to resume their candidature, in accordance with University procedures, following a period of approved leave, outside study or a suspension of candidature will have their enrolment terminated.
12.3.2 A candidate who has their enrolment terminated for failure to resume their candidature following a period of approved leave, outside study or a suspension of candidature may request a review of the decision (refer Regulation 21).
12.4 Extension of Candidature
12.4.1 Requests for an extension of candidature will not exceed twelve months of full-time study (or twenty-four months of part-time study) for a domestic doctoral candidate.
12.4.2 Candidates enrolled in the Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought and all Masters-by-Research programs will not normally be granted any extensions.
12.4.3 Requests for an extension of candidature at the time of Mid-Candidature Review or at the time of the Final Year Review will normally only be considered if the candidate’s academic progress has been satisfactory.
12.4.4 The Pro Vice-Chancellor Research is responsible for approving requests for an extension of candidature both within and beyond the timeframes specified in Regulation 12.4.1.
12.4.5 A candidate who reaches the maximum duration of his or her Research Training Program Fees Offset Scholarship, or tuition fee waiver, either as stated in the letter of offer or following an approved extension of the scholarship, and has not submitted his or her thesis for examination, will be required to either pay tuition fees for the remainder of their candidature (refer to the ACU Tuition Fee Schedule) or withdraw from ACU.
13.2 A candidate may be permitted, with the approval of the Associate Dean Research, to collect research material in the field. Such proposals for fieldwork should be noted in confirmation of candidature documentation and, where relevant, the ethics approval application.
13.3 Where appropriate, the Principal Supervisor, in consultation with the Associate Dean Research, should ensure that an Associate Supervisor is appointed to assist the candidate in the field. The extent of this assistance should be agreed to and documented. A candidate who has been granted permission to undertake fieldwork overseas must have completed their confirmation of candidature.
13.4 The Principal Supervisor and candidate should agree in advance as to the extent of contact to be maintained whilst the candidate is absent from the University. This must be documented.
13.5 For a doctoral degree, a candidate will not normally spend more than a total of one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) carrying out fieldwork away from the University. For a master-by-research degree, the period will normally be a maximum of six months of full-time study (or part-time equivalent). Periods of approved study leave count towards candidature.
13.6 Any fieldwork occurring outside Australia requires the approval of the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and will be subject to travel advisories at the time as issued by the Australian Government.
13.7 All fieldwork and associated budget, irrespective of whether it is occurring within Australia or outside Australia, must be approved before it commences and before any travel arrangements are made.
13.8 A candidate who has been granted permission to undertake fieldwork will remain subject to relevant ACU regulations, rules, policies and procedures, as well as any fees which may be applicable at the time.
14.1 All research carried out by candidates enrolled in a research higher degree at ACU must comply with relevant State and Commonwealth legislative requirements and guidelines in relation to the conduct of research and its ethical considerations.
14.2 Candidates and their Supervisors are required to inform themselves of these requirements and all relevant policies and guidelines on research-related matters.
14.3 Research projects involving:
- contact with human participants, interviews, the administration of questionnaires or access to public or private records;
- animals;
- recombinant DNA; or
- ionising radiation
must receive ethics appropriate clearance from the relevant ethics or safety committee(s).
14.4 Failure to obtain written ethics clearance in advance of the data collection, including recruitment of research participants, is considered to be a breach of the ACU Research Code of Conduct and may also breach State or Commonwealth legislation.
14.5 Normally, research candidates will apply for ethics approval of their research after being confirmed in their candidature.
Candidates are required to familiarise themselves with the ACU Intellectual Property Policy and to abide by any requirements specified therein.
16.1 Candidates and Supervisors are required to follow standards on scholarly integrity and to comply with the ACU Research Code of Conduct.
16.2 A condition of enrolment as a research higher degree candidate at ACU is that any written work submitted for evaluation by their Supervisors, or a Panel, such as a Confirmation of Candidature, Mid-Candidature Review or Final Year Review Panel, or for examination, may be subjected to testing using text matching software.
16.3 Research proposals submitted with applications for admission and/or scholarship may be subjected to testing using text matching software.
17.1 A candidate has the following procedural responsibilities:
- to obtain approval from the Faculty Associate Dean Research or Pro Vice-Chancellor Research, in accordance with ACU procedures, before taking leave from their studies or suspending their candidature;
- to obtain approval from the Faculty Associate Dean Research or Pro Vice-Chancellor Research, in accordance with ACU procedures, before conducting any fieldwork or study outside of the University;
- to resume their candidature, in accordance with ACU procedures, the working day after his or her suspension or leave expires;
- to return to ACU, in accordance with prescribed procedures, following a period of approved fieldwork or outside study; and
- to comply with any other procedural responsibilities stated in the Higher Degree Research Regulations, as well as national and University Codes of Conduct.
- To submit a HDR Student Academic Progress Report
- on the prescribed form
- by the due date; and
- to the satisfaction of the Principal Supervisor and Faculty Associate Dean Research unless the candidate is on approved leave from their studies, including a suspension of candidature, when notified of the due date, in which case submission of the report can be delayed until 10 working days after the date on which the approved leave or suspension of candidature ends;
17.2 A candidate who fails to meet their procedural responsibilities will be instructed in writing by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research to do so within 10 working days of the date of the instruction
17.3 A candidate who fails to comply with the instruction issued by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research will have their enrolment terminated.
17.4 A candidate will be notified in writing if their enrolment is terminated and of their right to request a review of the decision (refer Regulation 21). In the case of an international candidate whose enrolment has been terminated, the candidate will also be notified of the possible implications of the action on their visa status.
17.5 Advice of the termination of enrolment will be provided to the candidate’s Supervisors and Faculty Associate Dean Research, and any other staff members who may need to take action as a result of the decision. A copy of the decision will be held by Graduate Research in the candidate’s electronic file and reported to the URC.
18.1 Unsatisfactory academic progress is defined as failure by a candidate to do one or more of the following:
- maintain regular and frequent contact with their Supervisors, including attendance at scheduled meetings;
- make application for ethics approval, where required, in a timely manner;
- submit data outputs or drafts of written work as agreed;
- participate in work-in-progress activities;
- undertake research training activities, as requested by the their Supervisors;
- adhere to agreed timelines for progress and completion; and
- achieve any other agreed goals.
18.2 A Faculty Associate Dean Research who is of the view that a candidate is not making satisfactory academic progress following:
- review of the HDR Student Academic Progress Report; or
- at other times, upon advice and the receipt of supporting documentation provided by the Principal Supervisor;
will notify the candidate in writing that their academic progress is under review. The candidate will be asked to develop a completion plan, in consultation with their Principal Supervisor, which must include a timeline and clearly articulated monthly goals. The completion plan must be endorsed by the Faculty Associate Dean Research within 20 working days of the candidate being notified that such a plan is required; a copy of the plan must be retained by the Faculty Associate Dean Research and a copy forwarded to the Manager, Graduate Research.
18.3 Should the candidate fail to meet one or more of the monthly goals articulated in the completion plan, the Faculty Associate Dean Research may recommend to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research that the candidate's enrolment be terminated. The recommendation must include supporting documentation.
18.4 The Pro Vice-Chancellor Research will notify the candidate in writing that the Faculty Associate Dean Research has recommended that their enrolment be terminated, and that the recommendation will be considered by the Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee. The candidate will be provided with a copy of the recommendation for termination of their enrolment.
18.5 The Pro Vice-Chancellor Research will invite the candidate to respond to the recommendation and make submissions as to why their enrolment should not be terminated. The Pro Vice-Chancellor Research may request further information or advice from the candidate, the candidate's Supervisors and/or Faculty Associate Dean Research, or any other relevant person.
18.6 If a candidate's response and/or submissions include allegations of misconduct of a member of staff which may be in contravention of the Staff Code of Conduct, the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research will seek the advice of the Director, Human Resources, as to whether the matter should be considered under the Staff Code of Conduct. If a process under the Staff Code of Conduct is commenced, the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research may suspend the academic progress process pending the outcome of the Staff Code of Conduct process.
18.7 The Pro Vice-Chancellor Research will convene a meeting of the Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee to consider the recommendation, including the supporting documentation, as well as the candidate's response and submissions, and any further information and/or advice received. The Committee will comprise:
- the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research (Chair);
- an Associate Dean Research from a Faculty other than the one in which the candidate is enrolled (nominated by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research); and
- the Manager, Graduate Research.
A person who was involved in making the recommendation to terminate the candidate's enrolment will not be appointed to the Committee.
The meeting may be held by telephone or other electronic means. All members of the Committee must attend for the meeting to be quorate.
18.8 The Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee may decide that:
- the candidate's academic progress is satisfactory and that their enrolment continue;
- the candidate's enrolment continue on a probationary basis subject to certain conditions being met (failure to meet the conditions will result in termination of enrolment); or
- the candidate's enrolment be terminated for unsatisfactory academic progress.
18.9 Normally within 10 working days of a decision by the Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee, the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research will notify the candidate in writing of the decision, the reasons for the decision, and, if the decision is to terminate enrolment, the circumstances under which the candidate may submit an appeal against the decision (refer Regulation 24). In the case of an international candidate whose enrolment has been terminated, the candidate will also be notified of the possible implications of the decision on their visa status.
18.10 A copy of the decision will be provided to the candidate's Supervisors and Faculty Associate Dean Research, and any other staff members who may need to take action as a result of the decision. A copy of the decision will be held by Graduate Research in the candidate's electronic file and, if the decision is to terminate enrolment, reported to the University Research Committee.
19.1 On completing the course of advanced study and research, a candidate will submit a written thesis based on work carried out during candidature and that meets the characteristics of either doctoral or master-by-research as defined in Regulation 1.
19.2 A thesis will comply with the Guidelines on the Preparation and Presentation of a Research or Professional Doctoral Thesis for Examination.
20.1 Assessment of Taught Units
Unless otherwise determined, the examination of material to satisfy the requirements of Taught Units at master or doctoral degree level will comply with the Academic Regulations.
20.2 Examination of the Thesis
20.2.1 On completing the program, a candidate will submit a thesis based on work carried out during candidature which complies with Regulation 19.
20.2.2 A doctoral thesis will be examined by two examiners, both of whom will be external to ACU and at least one of whom will be from an overseas institution. The examiners will be appointed according to the Appointment of Examiners and Examination Process Policy.
20.2.3 A master-by-research thesis will be examined by two examiners, both of whom will be external to ACU. The examiners will be appointed according to the Appointment of Examiners and Examination Process Policy.
21.1 A candidate may request a review of a decision made in relation to the following matters:
- the outcome of a request for an extension of candidature and/or scholarship;
- a decision not to approve an upgrade from a master-by-research to a doctoral program;
- a decision to terminate enrolment for failure to obtain approval to take leave from their studies or to suspend their candidature;
- a decision to terminate enrolment for failure to obtain approval to conduct fieldwork;
- a decision to terminate enrolment for failure to resume candidature after an approved period of leave or a suspension of candidature;
- a decision to terminate enrolment for failure to return to ACU after an approved period of fieldwork;
- a decision to terminate enrolment for failure to complete an annual Academic Progress Report;
- a decision to terminate enrolment for failure to comply with any other procedural responsibilities stated in the Higher Degree Research Regulations; and
- a thesis examination result awarded by the University.
In the case of (i), a request to review a thesis examination result may be made only on procedural grounds; that is, where a candidate's reasons for review are that the University has failed to follow the procedures set out in the relevant published University regulation, rule or policy. To the extent that a request for a review concerns the assessment of the merit of the thesis it will not be considered.
The right of review against the result of a coursework unit in a research higher degree will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations.
21.2 A candidate who requests a review of a decision made in relation to a matter listed in Regulation 21.1 must do so in writing to the Manager, Graduate Research within 20 working days of notification of any decision in respect of which the request for a review is submitted. The reasons for the request must be set out in full and all supporting documentation must be included.
21.3 The Manager, Graduate Research will acknowledge the request for a review in writing and refer it to the Chair of the Research Candidate Review Committee normally within five working days of receiving it.
21.4 If a candidate's request for a review includes allegations of misconduct of a member of staff which may be in contravention of the Staff Code of Conduct, the Chair will seek the advice of the Director, Human Resources, as to whether the matter should be considered under the Staff Code of Conduct. If a process under the Staff Code of Conduct is commenced, the Chair may suspend the review process pending the outcome of the Staff Code of Conduct process.
21.5 The Chair may request further information and/or advice from the candidate, the candidate's Supervisors and/or Faculty Associate Dean, or any other relevant person.
21.6 The Chair will convene a meeting of the Research Candidate Review Committee to consider the request for a review, including the supporting documentation, as well as any further information and/or advice received. The Committee will comprise:
- the Chair (nominated by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research); and
- two senior academic staff (nominated by the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research).
The composition of the Committee will vary depending on the Faculty in which the candidate requesting a review is enrolled.
A person who has been a decision-maker in the matter under review will not be appointed to the Committee.
The meeting may be held by telephone or other electronic means. All members of the Committee must attend for the meeting to be quorate.
21.7 The Research Candidate Review Committee may decide to:
- confirm or vary the decision that was originally made in relation to the matter under review; or
- overturn the decision that was originally made in relation to the matter under review.
21.8 Normally within 10 working days of a decision of the Research Candidate Review Committee, the Chair will notify the candidate in writing of the decision, the reasons for the decision, and the circumstances under which the candidate may submit an appeal against the decision (refer Regulation 22). In the case of an international candidate whose enrolment has been terminated, the candidate will also be notified of the possible implications of the decision on their visa status.
21.9 A copy of the decision will be provided to the candidate's Supervisors and Faculty Associate Dean Research, and any other staff members who may need to take action as a result of the decision. A copy of the decision will be held by Graduate Research in the candidate's electronic file and, if the decision is to terminate enrolment, reported to the University Research Committee.
22.1 Grounds for an Appeal
22.1.1 A candidate may appeal against a decision:
- made by the Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee pursuant to Regulation 18.9; or
- made by the Research Candidate Review Committee pursuant to Regulation 21.8.
22.1.2 An appeal may be made only on the grounds that published policies and/or procedures have not been followed.
22.1.3 Failure by the candidate to make available to any earlier reviews all relevant supporting documentation reasonably available at the time is not adequate grounds for appeal.
22.1.4 Matters relating to the development or substance of any published University regulation, rule or policy are not open to an appeal.
22.2 New Supporting Documentation or New Grounds for an Appeal
No new supporting documentation or grounds for appeal based on such supporting documentation will be considered unless:
- there has been a major change in circumstance following the lodging of the initial supporting documentation which, in the view of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, justifies the subsequent, exceptional submission of the supporting documentation; and
- the new supporting documentation has a significant bearing on the appeal and that supporting documentation was not reasonably available at the time the earlier process was considered.
22.3 Submission of an Appeal
22.3.1 An appeal must be submitted to the Manager, Graduate Research within 20 working days of notification of any decision in respect of which the appeal is submitted.
22.3.2 An appeal must:
- be submitted in writing;
- be dated and signed by the candidate;
- set out the grounds for the appeal under Regulation 24.1;
- provide details of the subject matter of the appeal and, in particular, details of the decision against which the appeal is made;
- provide details of the published University regulation, rule or policy which the candidate considers has not been observed; and
- include copies of any evidence/supporting information on which the candidate relies.
22.3.3 The Manager, Graduate Research will acknowledge the appeal in writing and refer it to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research normally within five working days of receiving it.
22.4 Action by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research
22.4.1 If the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research considers that the candidate's appeal does not satisfy the appeal criteria set out in Regulation 22.3, or does not establish a prima facie case, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research may dismiss the appeal.
22.4.2 If the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research considers that the candidate's appeal introduces new supporting documentation (refer Regulation 24.2), the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research may refer the matter back to the Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee or Research Candidate Review Committee, as appropriate, for reconsideration in light of the new evidence.
22.4.3 Upon consideration of the grounds of appeal, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research may refer the matter back to the Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee or the Research Candidate Review Committee, as appropriate, for reconsideration of its decision.
22.4.4 The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research may refer the matter to the Research Candidate Appeals Committee.
22.5 Matters Referred to the Research Candidate Appeals Committee
22.5.1 The Research Candidate Appeals Committee will comprise:
- the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research (Chair);
- the Chair of Academic Board;
- a senior academic from within the University (nominated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research); and
- a research candidate representative from within the University (nominated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research).
A person who has been a decision-maker in the matter under appeal will not be appointed to the Committee.
The quorum for a meeting of the Committee will be three members including the research candidate representative.
22.5.2 The Research Candidate Appeals Committee will:
- conduct the appeal as expeditiously as possible, consistent with the requirement to act fairly;
- have access to all documentation used by the Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee and/or the Research Candidate Review Committee, as appropriate;
- consider the information and documentation used by the Research Candidate Academic Progress Committee and/or the Academic Progress Review Committee, together with any further evidence requested from and presented by the University and/or the candidate; and
- provide the candidate with five working days' notice of the date of any meeting or interview he/she may be invited to attend.
22.5.3 The Research Candidate Appeals Committee may:
- confirm or vary the decision appealed; or
- uphold the appeal.
22.5.4 Normally within 10 working days of a decision of the Research Candidate Appeals Committee, the Chair will notify the candidate in writing of the decision, the process undertaken to consider the appeal, and the reasons for the decision and any associated recommendations. In the case of an international candidate whose enrolment has been terminated, the candidate will also be notified of the possible implications of the decision on their visa status.
22.5.5 A copy of the decision will be provided to the candidate's Supervisors and Faculty Associate Dean Research, and any other staff members who may need to take action as a result of the decision. A copy of the decision will be held by Graduate Research in the candidate's electronic file and, if the decision is to terminate enrolment, reported to the University Research Committee.
22.5.6 The decision of the Research Candidate Appeals Committee is final and there is no avenue of appeal against the decision to any other person or Committee within the University.
22.6 Support During the Appeal Process
22.6.1 In any discussions or interview in which a candidate participates during an appeal process, the candidate may, at their discretion, be accompanied by one other person, other than a person with a qualification in law, whom the candidate designates as their support person.
22.6.2 A support person may not be a person who was involved in, associated with, or alleged to have been involved in or associated with the matter of the appeal.
22.6.3 A support person may only make submissions on behalf of a candidate if invited to do so by the Chair of the Research Candidate Appeals Committee.
22.7 Candidate Attendance
Failure of the candidate and/or the candidate's support person to appear for discussion or interview for any appeal before the Research Candidate Appeals Committee, at the time notified to them, will not prevent the Committee from proceeding to investigate and determine the matter.
22.8 Withdrawal of an Appeal
At any time during an appeal process a candidate may withdraw an application, by notice to the Chair of the Research Candidate Appeals Committee. Upon such withdrawal, consideration of the appeal will normally be discontinued.
22.9 Candidate Status
22.9.1 Unless the Vice-Chancellor otherwise directs, a candidate who has submitted an appeal may continue in their program of study until the decision on the appeal is notified to the candidate.
22.9.2 In the case of an appeal against termination of enrolment for unsatisfactory academic progress, if the appeal is dismissed, the termination of enrolment will take effect from the date on which the Research Candidate Appeals Committee made its decision.
22.9.3 In the case of an appeal involving an international candidate, the University will notify the relevant Australian Government department of any notifiable change to the candidate's enrolment.
22.10 Other Avenues for Appeal
22.10.1 While candidates are encouraged to resolve any concerns that may have arisen from their status as a candidate of the University within ACU, nothing in the Higher Degree Research Regulations detracts from the right of a candidate to access any other appeal or complaint mechanism available to the candidate as legislated in the relevant State or Territory. If any external process is initiated, the internal appeal process will be terminated.
22.10.2 Following exhaustion of the internal appeal process, in the case of matters for which there is no specific external independent arbiter, a candidate may appeal to the University Visitor, who is an independent arbiter, external to the University. Any such appeal must be made in accordance with the Policy on Review by the University Visitor.
22.11 Applications for Appeal Involving Allegations Concerning a Staff Member
In any case where a candidate's application for appeal includes allegations of misconduct of a member of staff which may be in contravention of the Staff Code of Conduct, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research seek the advice of the Director, Human Resources, as to whether the matter should be considered under the Staff Code of Conduct. If a process under the Staff Code of Conduct is commenced, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research may suspend the appeal process pending the outcome of the Staff Code of Conduct process.
23.1 Eligibility for Award
23.1.1 To be eligible to be admitted to a higher degree award, a candidate must:
- comply with all University statutes, rules, regulations, and policies and procedures;
- pay all relevant fees and charges; and
- complete all requirements prescribed for the course.
23.1.2 Research higher degrees will be awarded without classification unless otherwise approved by the Academic Board and Senate.
23.1.3 The Doctor of Philosophy may be awarded summa cum laude in exceptional cases where the thesis has been identified as being of outstanding merit.
23.1.4 The Doctor of Education and Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought may be awarded summa cum laude in exceptional cases where the candidate has obtained a GPA of 6.3 or higher in the doctoral coursework units and the thesis has been identified as being of outstanding merit.
23.2 Revocation or Rescission of Award
In instances where it has been confirmed that an award was wrongly conferred, either through administrative error or based on provision of fraudulent or misleading information, the University may rescind or revoke the award in accordance with procedures prescribed by the University.
23.3 Conferral of Award
Awards will be conferred in accordance with procedures prescribed by the University.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in these Regulations, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research or Pro Vice-Chancellor Research may, in any case deemed appropriate, including as part of Joint (Cotutelle) Degree agreements vary, dispense with or suspend any requirements of or prescription in these Regulations. Any such action must be reported to the next meeting of URC and the Academic Board.
1. The following Higher Degrees are awarded by the University
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought (PhDSPT)
- Master of Education (Research) [MEd(Res)]
- Master of Health Sciences Research (Discipline) [MHScRes(Discipline)]
- Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
- Master of Theology (Research) [MTh(Res)]
2. Conditions for the Award of Research Higher Degrees
The conditions for the award of the following degrees shall be determined by the Academic Board on the advice of the URC and the Boards of the Faculties indicated:
URC in consultation with all Faculties of the University
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Master of Philosophy
Professional and other Research Higher Degrees
Faculty of Education
- Doctor of Education
- Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Political Thought
- Master of Education (Research)
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Master of Health Science Research (Discipline)
Faculty of Theology and Philosophy
- Master of Theology (Research)
3. Duration of Candidature
The requirements for the award of a research degree shall normally be met within the period indicated:
Research Degree | Full-Time | Part-Time |
---|---|---|
EdD | Three years | Six years |
PhD | Three years | Six years |
PhDSPT | Four years | Eight years |
MEd(Res) | Two years | Four years |
MHScRes(Discipline) | Two years | Four years |
MPhil | Two years | Four years |
MTh(Res) | One year | Two years |
1. Correspondence to Candidates
1.1 A notice or advice to an applicant/candidate is sufficient if it is in writing and is:
- posted to the candidate:
- for admission purposes, at the address shown on the application for admission;
- at the semester address shown on the candidate's most recent enrolment, if posted during a study period;
- at the home address shown on the candidate's most recent enrolment, if posted outside a study period;
or - emailed to the applicant/candidate:
- for admission purposes, at the email address shown on the application for admission;
- for other purposes, to the candidate's University email address;
or - sent via electronic communication to a mobile phone number supplied by the candidate; or
- posted for candidates on ACU's learning management system, during any study period.
1.2 Unless a later delivery date can be proven, any notice or advice is deemed to have been received:
- if sent by post to an address within Australia, on the fifth working day after it was sent;
- if sent by post to an address outside Australia by airmail, on the fifteenth working day after it was sent;
- if sent by email or electronic communication on the first working day after it was sent;
- if posted on ACU's learning management system, no later than 72 hours from the date and time on which it was posted.
2. Correspondence from Candidates
2.1 Correspondence from a candidate will be deemed to be effective on the date of its receipt by the University.
2.2 Any correspondence, document or form submitted to the University by a candidate becomes the property of the University unless, at the discretion of the University, the University elects to return the document or form to the candidate, with or without first having made a copy.
3. Change to Personal or Correspondence Details
3.1 Candidates must formally notify the University immediately, in accordance with prescribed procedures, of:
- any change of name; or
- address; or
- mobile phone number.
1. Recreation Leave
1.1 Candidates are entitled to 20 working days' recreation leave each year of candidature calculated on a pro-rata basis.
1.2 Recreation leave may be accrued, and must be agreed with and recorded by the Principal Supervisor.
2. Sick Leave
2.1 Candidates may receive up to 10 working days' sick leave each year of their candidature.
2.2 Candidates may also receive additional sick leave of up to 60 working days during their candidature for periods of illness where the candidate has insufficient sick leave entitlements under section 2.1.1 above, provided that a medical certificate has been submitted to the University by the candidate. Where a candidate takes a period of additional sick leave, their thesis submission date will be extended by that period.
2.3 Sick leave entitlements, including additional sick leave, may also be used to cover leave for a candidate with family caring responsibilities, provided a medical certificate has been provided to the University by the candidate where additional leave is being used for this purpose.
3. Maternity Leave
3.1 Candidates who have completed 12 months of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) are entitled to a maximum of 60 working days’ maternity leave during their candidature. Maternity leave will also be approved if the candidate has adopted a child.
3.2 Where a candidate takes a period of maternity leave their thesis submission date will be extended by that period.
4. Paternity Leave
4.1 Candidates who have completed 12 months of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) and is the partner of a woman giving birth is entitled to a period of 10 working days’ paternity leave at the time of birth. Paternity leave will also be approved if the candidate is adopting a child.5. Applying for Sick Leave and Maternity Leave
Candidates wishing to apply for sick leave and maternity should refer to Regulation 12.
6. Leave Entitlements for Scholarship Recipients
Candidates who are in receipt of a Research Training Program Scholarship should refer to the Research Training Program Scholarship Policy for information regarding leave entitlements. Recipients of other ACU scholarships should refer to their Scholarship Conditions of Award for further information about their leave entitlements.
Page last updated: 2018-06-01
Short url: https://handbook.acu.edu.au/1281258
Page last updated: 2018-06-01
Short url: https://handbook.acu.edu.au/1281258