About This Handbook
Introduction
This Handbook: has been prepared to assist candidates undertaking a higher degree by research. The Handbook covers a wide range of topics pertinent to research higher degree programs. Each section has a link to more formal documentation and candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the content.
Higher Degrees by Research at the University of Ballarat
Research Higher Degrees are supervised research training programs. Presently the University of Ballarat’s research higher degrees include the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, a number of Professional Doctorate programs and a range of Masters degrees by research. Doctoral programs typically take three to four years to complete and Masters programs around 18 months. All research higher degree programs are governed by Regulation 5.1 which can be accessed here (PDF).
At the University of Ballarat it is expected that graduates of research higher degree programs will develop a number of attributes through their research training. Specifically it is expected that graduates will possess:
- the ability to make contribution to knowledge
- the ability to undertake independent research
- the ability to effectively communicate/report research findings to a range of difference audiences
- intellectual and professional integrity
- a range of generic skills applicable to future research and employment
These attributes will be underpinned by capabilities/competencies developed by candidates during their research training. A more detailed account of the attributes expected of research degree graduates at the University of Ballarat can be found at here.
To ensure that the research training experience is successful and rewarding requires all stakeholders to discharge a range of responsibilities. The University of Ballarat adheres to responsibilities identified by the AVCC in its “Guidelines for Maintaining and Monitoring Academic Quality and Standards in Higher Degrees”. These responsibilities cover those of the University, academic units (e.g. Schools), supervisors and candidates and are listed here (PDF).
The University of Ballarat endeavours, at all times, to ensure that it meets its various responsibilities. The intention of this handbook is to help candidates discharge their responsibilities