Information for research degree candidates

Duration of candidature

Master's (Honours) degrees

Minimum duration (UTS Rule 3.4.4.1)

Full time = two semesters
Part time = three semesters

Maximum duration (UTS Rule 3.4.4.2)

Full time = four semesters
Part time = six semesters

Doctoral degrees (excluding PhD by Publication)

Minimum duration (UTS Rule 3.5.4.1)

Full time = four semesters
Part time = six semesters

Maximum duration (UTS Rule 3.5.4.2)

Full time = six semesters
Part time = nine semesters

These periods do not include periods of approved leave of absence (Rule 3.4.4.2).

The maximum duration may only be extended with the approval of the University Graduate School Board (Rules 3.4.4.2, 3.5.4.2).

The minimum duration can be reduced only with the approval of the University Graduate School Board, and only in a situation where a candidate is 'specially qualified' in the relevant discipline (Rules 3.4.4.1, 3.5.4.1).

Professional Doctorate and Master's (Honours) coursework

Coursework for Professional Doctorate students is typically undertaken in block sessions of four to five days. These blocks are held in February, July and December. Candidates are required to attend a block session for each subject that they are enrolled in for that semester.

Coursework for the Master's (Honours) students is typically undertaken in class sessions that run over two day periods during the semester. Candidates are required to attend the class sessions for each subject that they are enrolled in for that semester.

Intellectual property

The Faculty has explicit guidelines relating to academic misconduct, including plagiarism. In brief, plagiarism is defined as any attempt to use the work of another person without acknowledging the source. For the purposes of this rule 'work' is defined as written materials such as books, journals and magazine articles or other papers, and also includes films and computer programs.

At a research level, candidates must exercise great care in acknowledging all material derived from any source; if in doubt candidates should consult their supervisor – remember, even paraphrasing another person's work is defined as 'using' that person's work and must be acknowledged.

The penalties relating to a candidate found to have committed plagiarism are outlined in Rule 2.23.

Discontinuation or resolution of progress

Research degree candidates may have their registration discontinued if they fail to complete all prescribed work within a given period of time or if the University Graduate School Board is dissatisfied with the candidate's progress. The University Rules relating to discontinuation of registration, appeal against discontinuation and result of appeal are Rules 3.4.14–3.4.16 for Master's candidates and Rules 3.5.14–3.5.16 for Doctoral candidates.

Appeals

In cases of appeal, a Student Assessment Appeals Committee of the Faculty Board considers the appeal following the criteria and procedures approved by the Academic Board.

For a detailed explanation of the rights and procedures of appeals, candidates should consult the University Rules (Rule 3.4.15 (Master's) or Rule 3.5.15 (Doctoral)), published in the UTS: Calendar and online at:

Graduation

Research candidates should consult closely with their supervisor when anticipating graduation, as the assessment process for theses can be a time-consuming undertaking, and revisions are often required.

Graduation ceremonies are conducted during a specific period in April–May and September–October each year. Information regarding graduation will be forwarded to eligible candidates following the receipt of the Application for Award form.