Higher Degrees By Research
Higher Degrees By Research are supervised research training programs. Presently the University of Ballarat's research higher degrees include:
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.
Graduate Attributes
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 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.
The University of Ballarat endeavours, at all times, to ensure that it meets its various responsibilities
Minimum Resources and other Support for Research Higher Degree Students
The enrolment of a research higher degree candidate implies that the School responsible for principal supervision will provide sufficient resources and support to allow the candidate to complete their agreed research program at the required standard and within the prescribed time. In instances where the candidate believes the provision of resources for their research project is not reasonable they should address their concerns to the Head of School. The support provided by the School will be supplemented by the provision of University services including Library and Information & Communications Technology (ICT) network services and services provided by the Research & Graduate Studies Office (RAGSO). For further information, click here.
The Candidature Process
The entire process of being a higher degree by research student at the University of Ballarat, from application for admission to completion and graduation, is outlined in the Higher Degrees by Research Handbook, specifically at:
http://www.ballarat.edu.au/ard/ubresearch/hdrs/res_handbook/sections/degrees/degrees.shtml
The following links relate to various stages of candidature as outlined in the handbook.
Copyright toolkit for student theses
In close cooperation and consultation with the Commonwealth-funded OAK Law project, a practical and usable copyright toolkit has been developed to aid post-graduate students in managing copyright in their theses. The toolkit takes into account legal advice provided by the OAK Law project on this matter as well as providing a practical guide for universities to copyright management as it relates to research. The copyright toolkit for candidates for higher degree theses is at http://www.ballarat.edu.au/aasp/copyright/theses.shtml The toolkit can be freely used.
Higher Degree by Research Students are advised that the "Miscellaneous Request Form" is available to report any issues or concerns at any time. However, students are advised that the form should only be used if other avenues to address the issue or concern, i.e. discuss with supervisors, discuss with RHDE Coordinator, discuss with Head of School, have not been successful.The request form is to be forwarded to the RAGSO who will liaise with the Dean of Graduate Studies who will determine appropriate action.
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