Research Higher Degree Rules
These regulations apply to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy offered by Central Queensland University.
2.1 In these Rules, unless the context otherwise indicates or requires, the term "the Committee", shall mean the Research Committee of the Academic Board of Central Queensland University.
2.2 A Dean of Faculty is given considerable duties and responsibilities in managing research higher degrees by the Rules. In discharging these duties, the Dean may elect to delegate such responsibility to the Associate Dean (Research) and/or consult with and refer for advice to the supervisors, the candidate, and such other members of the Faculty as appropriate. In addition, the Faculty Research Committee has responsibility to monitor the enrolment and progress of research higher degree candidates and provide advice as appropriate to the Committee.
3.1 A person may be admitted to candidature for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy if the person:
3.1.1 has been awarded a Masters degree either by research or with a substantial element of research work within it, from the University or any other approved institution; or
3.1.2 has qualified for the award of a Bachelors degree in an appropriate discipline with first class or second class honours Division A conferred by the University or any other approved institution; or
3.1.3 has been enrolled for a Masters degree by research at the University for not less than one year as a full-time candidate or 2 years as a part-time candidate, and the Dean of Faculty certifies that the applicant's work as a Masters degree candidate is of such a standard as to justify candidature for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy; or
3.1.4 holds, from an institution of tertiary education, qualifications which are deemed by the Committee to be equivalent to those prescribed in 3.1.1, or 3.1.2, above.
4.1 An application for admission to candidature can be made at any time of the year and shall be made in the prescribed manner and shall include details of the proposed field of research to be pursued for the purpose of obtaining the degree, and documentary evidence of relevant qualifications.
4.2 In the process of preparing an application for admission, an applicant is encouraged to consult with the appropriate Faculty to determine eligibility for admission, the proposed area of research, and the availability of supervision.
5.1 An applicant may be admitted following recommendation through the relevant Dean of Faculty and as approved by the Committee. Admission to candidature shall normally be approved provided that the Committee is satisfied that:
5.1.1 the applicant's qualifications meet the provisions of Section 3;
5.1.2 appropriate supervision, as defined in Section 10, is available;
5.1.3 the applicant's proposed field of research can be supported, with respect to facilities and resources, by the Faculty to which admission is sought; and
5.1.4 an appropriate place is available.
5.2 The Dean of Faculty may recommend to the Committee that an applicant be granted advanced standing for work done at another institution at the same level of course, or for relevant research expertise. Normally, candidates granted advanced standing must complete a minimum of one year’s full-time study or equivalent part-time study as a candidate of the University. In instances of application for advanced standing, the minimum completion time may be negotiated further with the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Academic Development).
5.3 In approving admission to candidature, and having considered the recommendations of the Faculty concerned, the Committee shall, in a formal Description of Candidature to be provided to the applicant in an offer of admission:
5.3.1 determine the date which shall be deemed the date of commencement of candidature;
5.3.2 determine the Faculty or Department in which the program will be undertaken;
5.3.3 appoint the supervisor(s);
5.3.4 approve any program of coursework which must be satisfactorily completed prior to submission of the research thesis;
5.3.5 approve any period of advanced standing;
5.3.6 approve the proposed field of research;
5.3.7 determine any special conditions that the candidate may be required to fulfil.
5.4 Candidature shall be deemed to have commenced as at the date prescribed by the Committee and as confirmed by the candidate when accepting the offer of admission.
6.1 A commencing candidate shall enrol within 28 days of commencement of candidature.
6.2 A continuing candidate shall be re-enrolled at the commencement of each year.
6.3 In the event that an examined thesis must be resubmitted as in paragraph 13.7.4, the candidate shall be required to re-enrol for a prescribed period which shall not exceed twelve months.
7.1 A candidate may be accepted as a full-time candidate or as a part-time candidate. The proposed program of study may be undertaken in either Internal or off-campus mode. Permission to enrol as an off-campus candidate shall only be granted where:
7.1.1 a clear project definition, including a timescale and schedule for regular progress reports, can be determined;
7.1.2 appropriate supervision can be arranged;
7.1.3 access can be guaranteed to laboratories, equipment, research literature and resource materials as necessary for the successful completion of the research; and
7.14 the candidate agrees to attend the University for such periods and purposes connected with the candidature as specified in Section 9.
7.2 A candidate may transfer from one mode to another on such terms as the Committee may approve.
7.3 Admission to candidature shall normally be for a provisional period which ordinarily shall not exceed twelve months. In the case of a candidate who is admitted on the basis of previous studies and/or work experience and who has provided the Committee with a detailed program of research and study, the Committee may waive the requirement of provisional candidature.
7.4 Within the first 12 months of full-time candidature (24 months for part-time), the candidate shall develop, in consultation with the supervisors, a detailed program of research and study which defines aims and objectives, methodology, facilities and resources required, and a time schedule for completion. The program shall report on work undertaken to date and elaborate upon the broad outline of the research proposal submitted prior to any significant departure from the original proposal. In addition, the program shall contain a provisional title for the thesis and, as necessary, certification of ethical clearance for any research involving human and/or animal subjects (such clearance shall be obtained from a panel constituted in accord with recognised codes and guidelines). The recommendation to the Committee for confirmation of candidature should be completed within 18 months from the date of commencement of full-time candidature (36 months for part-time).
7.5 The Dean of Faculty shall review the candidate's progress and the detailed program and provide the Committee, by the conclusion of the period of provisional candidature, with a recommendation for confirmation of candidature consisting of:
7.5.1 an appraisal of the candidate's progress and ability to proceed with the proposed research program;
7.5.2 the detailed program of research and study; and
7.5.3 statements of whether the program continues to be within the aims, objectives and resources of the Faculty or Research Centre.
7.6 Where the program of research and study has an attendant statement of agreement regarding the disbursement of intellectual property rights, the Dean shall provide such additional comment as deemed appropriate and refer the matter to the Committee for its consideration.
7.7 The Committee, having given consideration to the Dean's recommendation and the candidate's progress, may require changes to the program of research and study, confirm the candidature, terminate the candidature, or take such other action as is deemed appropriate.
7.8 Where it is determined that a provisional candidature shall be terminated, the candidate shall be given the opportunity to show cause why such action should not be taken.
8.1 On admission to candidature, the candidate shall, in not less than 2 years, nor more than 4 years (or the equivalent for a part-time candidate), pursue a supervised program of advanced research and study, as approved by the Committee, leading to the submission of a thesis.
8.2 In special cases only, and as requested by the candidate, the Committee, on the advice of the principal supervisor, may grant leave of absence from the program of research and study for a period of not less than one month and not exceeding twelve months. Candidates must provide independent documentation supporting their application for leave (e.g. from a doctor, counsellor, employer). The period of such leave shall not be counted as part of the prescribed period of candidature. A candidate resuming after such leave of absence, shall be enrolled for not less than one half year before being permitted to submit a thesis.
Where a request from the candidate for leave of absence is not granted, the candidate may continue with candidature, withdraw from the candidature, or appeal the decision through the Appeals Committee of the Academic Board
8.3 In the program of the approved program of research and study, a candidate shall be required to:
8.3.1 attend the University for consultation and other purposes as deemed necessary (refer to Section 9);
8.3.2 participate in lectures and seminars and perform such practical work as prescribed by the Committee; and
8.3.3 present at an appropriate scholarly or professional venue, a seminar in the approved area of research; such presentation being an unassessed component of the candidature.
8.4 Where, at any stage during the program of study, the candidate wishes to change the focus of the research such that it represents a significant departure from the approved program of research and study, the candidate shall be required to submit a revised program as prescribed in paragraph 7.4 The requisite program shall be submitted through the principal supervisor to the Dean of Faculty, who shall make such comments as deemed appropriate, and refer the matter to the Committee for consideration.
8.5 The thesis shall normally be submitted within the prescribed period of candidature. A candidate may apply to the Committee, through the principal supervisor, for an extension to the period of candidature. Such extension shall be granted only where the Committee is satisfied that the program of research has been prolonged owing to circumstances beyond the candidate' s control. An extension beyond a twelve (12) month period (2 years for part-time) shall not normally be granted.
9.1 The University encourages students to attend its campuses and to be part of the University community. However, it recognises that what might be appropriate attendance for the study program or research activities for one candidate, might be inappropriate for another.
9.2 In the development of the program of research and study, supervisors and candidates should consult on the candidate's proposed attendance on campus during the doctoral program. The proposed attendance should form part of the research proposal mutually agreed by the candidate and supervisor, supported by the Dean and approved by the Committee.
9.3 The University reserves the right to vary the agreed arrangements to require the student to attend on-campus for such period as the Committee determines, if such attendance is felt to be necessary for the successful pursuit of the study program. Such variations will be discussed initially with the candidate's supervisor and the Dean.
10.1 A candidate undertaking a higher degree by research shall have a principal supervisor and at least one other supervisor. The principal supervisor shall be a member of the staff of the University. An associate supervisor or a co-supervisor may be a member of the staff of the University or may be a discipline expert from outside the University.
10.2 The Dean of the relevant Faculty shall recommend supervisors for appointment by the Committee.
10.3 The principal supervisor of a candidate for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy shall normally be required to:
10.3.1 hold, as a minimum academic requirement, a Doctor of Philosophy degree or have other equivalent research experience;
10.3.2 have experience in the supervision of research at higher degree level;
10.3.3 have relevant knowledge and experience in the topic area nominated by the doctoral candidate;
10.3.4 have sufficient time and access to adequate resources, taking account of total workload including the supervision of other higher degree candidates.
10.4 An associate supervisor of a candidate for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy shall normally be required to:
10.4.1 have relevant knowledge and experience in the topic area nominated by the doctoral candidate;
10.4.2 liaise with the principal supervisor to provide additional supervisory support.
10.5 A co-supervisor of a candidate shall normally be required to:
10.5.1 fulfil all of the requirements of a principal supervisor listed in 10.3;
10.5.2 share supervisory tasks jointly with the principal supervisor.
10.6 A candidate shall consult the supervisors regularly during the program of developing and undertaking the prescribed program of research and during preparation of the thesis, and shall, as the supervisors may require, submit drafts of the thesis for advice and comment prior to its submission for examination.
10.7 The Committee shall, from time to time, provide advice for the guidance of supervisors.
10.8 It is acknowledged that the occasion may arise where it is necessary to make a change of supervisor(s).
10.8.1 The Dean of Faculty may, at any time, on the request of the supervisor(s) or of the candidate, recommend to the Committee a change of supervisor(s).
10.8.2 Where, after consultation with the Dean of Faculty concerned, a candidate remains dissatisfied with the supervision, the candidate may apply to the Committee for a change of supervisor(s).
10.8.3 After candidature has commenced, the University shall not terminate a candidature because of inability to provide a supervisor.
10.8.4 If a principal supervisor is absent for an extended period of time, a co-supervisor or an associate supervisor who is a member of the staff of the University may be appointed as a pro-tem supervisor.
11.1 On receipt of a documented request from the Committee, the candidate shall submit to the principal supervisor, half-yearly progress reports no later than 30 April and 30 September each year. The principal supervisor shall endorse the candidate's report and make any additional comments for the attention of the Dean of Faculty who shall make recommendations to the Committee regarding continuation of candidature.
11.2 Where, following consultation with the Dean of Faculty concerned, the Committee is of the opinion that the candidate has failed to:
11.2.1 make satisfactory academic progress in the work; or
11.2.2 furnish any report as required by these Rules; or
11.2.3 meet those conditions of candidature imposed by the Committee; then the candidature may be terminated.
11.3 As a matter of normal practice, candidature shall not be terminated on the basis of unsatisfactory progress unless the Committee is satisfied that a reasonable attempt has been made to ensure that the candidate has been:
11.3.1 clearly warned of shortcomings in research performance;
11.3.2 advised of means of overcoming these shortcomings and of obtaining a satisfactory standard of performance in the research; and
11.3.3 provided the opportunity to take action as directed.
12.1 The candidate shall give notice, through the principal supervisor, of the intention to submit a thesis no less than twelve (12) weeks prior to the proposed date of submission. Such notice shall include the full title of the thesis.
12.1.1 The principal supervisor shall certify on the notice of intention to submit a thesis, that the candidate has completed all studies prescribed for the degree and will be able to submit the thesis in a form suitable for examination by the indicated date. Such certification is not intended to pre-empt the decision of the examiners and does not hold the supervisor responsible for any deficiencies in the thesis as perceived by the examiners.
12.1.2 The Dean of Faculty shall endorse the notice as evidence of receipt of information of the candidate's intention to submit.
12.1.3 Where, following consultation with the other supervisor(s), the principal supervisor has any doubt as to whether the candidate is ready to submit the thesis, the supervisor is not required to endorse the notice. The principal supervisor is required, however, to advise the candidate and the Committee of the reasons why support has not been forthcoming.
12.1.4 Where the principal supervisor refuses to endorse the notice for reasons other than failure to complete prescribed studies, the candidate may appeal to the Committee, through the Dean of Faculty, to submit the thesis for examination.
12.2 The candidate shall ensure that the University's "Requirements for the Presentation of Research Theses" as promulgated by the Committee, have been met.
12.2.1 The principal supervisor shall read the thesis and certify that the standard of presentation satisfies the requirements of the University and that the thesis is in a form acceptable for examination.
12.2.2 Where the principal supervisor is unable or unwilling to provide such endorsement, it is expected that the candidate will be advised of the necessary corrective action.
12.2.3 In cases where the principal supervisor is unable or unwilling to sign the certificate, the Dean of Faculty will make further enquiries and report to the Committee. The Committee may decide to accept the thesis for examination or refer it back to the candidate for action as directed.
12.3 The candidate is required to submit the thesis and requisite copies to the Research Services Office by the indicated date.
12.4 The thesis shall be a coherent exposition of the research study and follow an ordered sequence in which the research objectives, methodology and strategies employed, and the results obtained, are identified. The main text shall include a critique of the conclusions or results arrived at.
12.5 The thesis shall not include, in the main text, work submitted for another degree at the University or another tertiary institution. The thesis shall be prefaced by a declaration by the candidate that this condition is satisfied and that the main text of the thesis is an original work by the candidate.
12.6 In the event that an examined thesis is required to be amended or substantially revised, such amendment and/or revision will be conducted within a prescribed time which shall not exceed twelve months.
12.7 The University requires that examined theses are deposited in the University Library and that theses shall be generally available for the purposes of research and private study. It is acknowledged, however, that certain research projects may involve the use or production of information which is confidential in nature.
12.8 Where an entire thesis or parts thereof contain(s) confidential information which cannot be made freely available, the candidate may apply, at the time of submission for examination, to the Committee for approval to restrict access to the Library copy of the thesis.
12.9 Notwithstanding Section 14, restricted access shall normally be granted for a period of twelve months in the first instance. An extension beyond this period shall be at the discretion of the Committee.
13.1 Upon notification that the candidate is about to submit a thesis, the Committee shall appoint, after consultation with the Dean of Faculty concerned, at least four (one to be used as a reserve) examiners of the thesis. Normally, all examiners will be external to the University, however where there is a well justified case, one internal examiner may be appointed. The nominated internal examiner must have had no intellectual involvement with the preparation of the candidates’ thesis or the program of study. The candidate’s supervisors shall not be appointed as an examiner.
13.2 Candidates may nominate to the Dean of Faculty, the names of any person who they consider should not be appointed as an examiner. Candidates must provide reasons for the objections in writing.
13.3 The examiners and a Chair of Examiners shall constitute the Examination Panel. The Chair of Examiners is a full-time member of the University's academic or research staff and is appointed with regard to their general knowledge of standards in respect of doctoral research and the University's policies and procedures for the examination of theses.
13.4 Each examiner, although at liberty to consult with other examiners, shall submit an independent report and recommendation on the approved form. An examiner may request the Committee Chair to question the candidate on any aspect of the work, in which case a copy of the question and the answer shall be sent to the other examiner(s) by the Research Higher Degrees Officer. Examiners' reports shall remain confidential until a recommendation is made by the Committee. After such time, candidates shall receive complete copies of the examiners’ reports. Examiners may request that their identities remain confidential.
13.5 Examiners may require the candidate to undertake such oral, written or practical examinations as deemed appropriate.
13.6 A thesis for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy is expected to demonstrate the candidate's:
13.6.1 knowledge of the research topic and the discipline(s) it embraces;
13.6.2 capacity for clear, methodical thinking;
13.6.3 mastery of analytical techniques appropriate to the research;
13.6.4 ability to present the results of the research in a succinct and cogent form, with suitable illustration; and
13.6.5 significant original contribution to knowledge of a subject area usually shown by the discovery of new facts, and/or by the exercise of independent critical thinking.
13.7 An examiner's report shall conclude with one of the following recommendations:
13.7.1 that the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.7.2 that, provided the listed textual errors are corrected to the satisfaction of the Chair of Examiners, the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.7.3 that, provided the nominated passages are revised to the satisfaction of the Chair of Examiners, the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.7.4 that, although the thesis does not meet the standard expected for the degree, the candidate be required to carry out additional work as directed and resubmit the thesis for re-examination;
13.7.5 that the thesis be rejected and that the degree not be awarded.
13.8 Where, following consideration of the reports of the Examination Panel, it is determined that the thesis does not meet the standard expected for the degree, but the Committee is satisfied that the research is of suitable merit, the Committee may recommend that the appropriate Masters' degree be awarded. The award of the Masters' degree is subject to the acceptance of that degree by the candidate and such conditions as specified by the Committee.
13.9 A candidate who has revised a thesis in terms of paragraph 13.7.4 and who fails the re-examination, shall not be eligible for any further examination.
13.10 The Chair of Examiners shall consider the recommendations of the examiners and shall submit a report to the Committee on the results of the examination. Such reports will include the text of the examiners' reports on the thesis, and any additional assessment the candidate has been required to undergo, any comments from the supervisor(s), and the recommendation of the Chair of Examiners.
13.11 The Committee may accept the recommendation contained in the report of the Chair of Examiners or refer the report back to the Examination Panel for further consideration.
14.1 Where research projects are conducted in cooperation with, or under the sponsorship of industry, or where the intellectual property may have commercial significance, the University requires that negotiations regarding the ownership of any intellectual property arising from or associated with the research project, be formalised prior to the confirmation of candidature.
14.2 In the event that details of any intellectual property or process improvement is contained within a thesis, and where the candidate does not seek to restrict public access to that thesis as pursuant to Clause 12.8, the principal supervisor may seek to protect the interests of the University and/or sponsor and apply through the Committee for such restriction to be approved.
14.3 In the event that a doctoral thesis contains sensitive or potentially patentable research results, the University shall ensure that examiners sign an appropriate confidentiality agreement prior to examining the thesis. The University shall take whatever other action is necessary to protect patentable material contained in theses in a way which will not incur undue delay in the awarding of the degree.
14.4 In all other cases, and consistent with University’s Intellectual Property and Moral Rights Policy (especially relating to patents, royalties and proprietary information which are still being formulated), the candidate shall normally hold ownership of any intellectual property associated with or arising from their research project.
15.1 A full-time candidate who is not a scholarship holder may undertake paid employment if the Dean of Faculty concerned, after consulting the candidate's supervisor(s), is satisfied that the candidate's progress will not be impeded by the amount of work undertaken.
15.2 The maximum amount of employment that could be undertaken by the holder of a scholarship or like award, will be as prescribed by the granting agency in its conditions of award.
16.1 The Committee shall determine whether or not the candidate has satisfied the requirements for the degree and recommend its award to the Academic Board
16.2 The award shall be conferred by the Council of Central Queensland University.
17.1 A candidate who has reasonable grounds for dissatisfaction with any formal decision made regarding the candidature and/or the examination and assessment of the thesis, may appeal, in writing, to the Appeals Committee of the Academic Board. An appeal shall be received by the Vice-President and Registrar within one month of formal notification of the decision.
These regulations apply to the Degree of Doctor of Education offered by Central Queensland University.
2.1 Unless the context otherwise indicates or requires, the term "the Committee" shall mean the University Research Committee which is a sub-Committee of the Academic Board of Central Queensland University.
2.2 Unless the context otherwise indicates or requires, the term "the Dean" shall mean the Dean of the Faculty of Education & Creative Arts and "the Faculty" shall mean the Faculty of Education & Creative Arts.
2.3 The Dean of the Faculty has considerable duties and responsibilities as specified in these rules in managing the Doctor of Education program. In discharging these duties, the Dean may elect to delegate such duties and responsibilities to the Associate Dean (Research.) The Dean and/or Associate Dean (Research) may consult with and refer for advice to such persons as they deem fit including the supervisor(s), the candidate, and such other members of Faculty as appropriate. In addition, the Faculty Research & Postgraduate Committee has responsibility to monitor the enrolment and progress of research higher degree candidates and provide advice as appropriate to the Dean.
2.4 The responsibility for governance of the candidature shall be shared between the Faculty and the Committee. Notwithstanding the Committee's responsibilities in respect of admission, candidature and the examination of theses, the Faculty shall manage the advanced research tasks and research proposal components of the degree and advise the Committee on progress of each candidate. The Faculty shall be responsible for the award of grades (refer to Section 8.4) for advanced research tasks and the provision of timely advice in respect of the candidate's progression to the thesis component of the degree.
An applicant may be permitted to enrol for the degree if the applicant:
3.1 has not less than five years of professional experience in education;
3.2 has fulfilled such other requirements as the Committee may determine from time to time; and
3.3 has qualified for the degree of Master of Education, Master of Education Studies, Master of School Management, Master of Education (Professional) or Bachelor of Education with a minimum of Honours IIA at Central Queensland University; or
3.4 has such other qualifications and experience as are considered by the Committee to be equivalent to or an adequate substitute for any of the qualifications listed as in 3.3 above.
4.1 An application for admission to candidature can be made at any time of the year and shall be made in the prescribed manner and shall include details of the proposed field of research to be pursued for the purpose of obtaining the degree, and documentary evidence of relevant qualifications.
4.2 In the course of preparing an application for admission, an applicant is encouraged to consult with appropriate Faculty staff to determine eligibility for admission, the proposed area of research, and the availability of supervision.
5.1 The Committee may approve an application for admission provided the Dean has certified that:
5.1.1 the applicant has satisfied the provisions contained in Rule 3;
5.1.2 appropriate supervision as defined in Rule 11 is available;
5.1.3 the applicant's proposed topic of research can be supported, with respect to facilities and resources, by the Faculty and, where appropriate, a co-operating institution; and
5.1.4 an appropriate place is available.
5.2 In approving admission to candidature, and having considered the recommendations of the Dean, the Committee shall:
5.2.1 determine the date which shall be deemed the date of commencement
5.2.2 determine the status of the candidature as defined in rule 7.
6.1 A commencing candidate shall enrol within 28 days of receipt of letter of offer.
6.2 A continuing candidate shall be re-enrolled at the commencement of each year.
6.3 In the event that an examined thesis must be resubmitted as in 14.7.4, the candidate shall be required to re-enrol for a prescribed period which shall not exceed twelve (12) months
7.1 An applicant may be accepted as a full-time candidate or as a part-time candidate. The proposed program of research may be undertaken in either the internal or off-campus (external) modes. Permission to enrol as an off-campus (external) candidate shall only be granted by the Committee where:
7.1.1 a clear project definition, including a timeline and schedule for the program of advanced research tasks and preparation of the research proposal can be determined;
7.1.2 appropriate supervision can be arranged;
7.1.3 access can be guaranteed to equipment, research literature and resource materials as necessary for the successful completion of the research; and
7.1.4 the candidate agrees to attend the University for such periods and purposes connected with the candidature as prescribed in Rule 10.
7.2 A candidate may transfer from one mode to another on such terms as the Committee may approve.
7.3 A candidate must pass each of the advanced research tasks and the research proposal before progressing onto the thesis component of the degree.
7.4 Candidature shall be terminated on the date of submission of the thesis for examination.
8.1 On admission to candidature, the candidate shall, in not less than two years, or more than four years (or the equivalent for a part-time candidate), pursue a supervised program of study and research, as approved by the Committee, leading to the submission of a portfolio of written work, incorporating the advanced research tasks and the research proposal and a thesis.
8.2 The course of study shall consist of:
8.2.1 Four (4) advanced research tasks prescribed by the Faculty and as approved by the Committee; and
8.2.2 A written research proposal which shall be defended at an oral examination (colloquium); and, on confirmation of candidature;
8.2.3 A thesis component approved by the Committee.
8.3 In accordance with Central Queensland University policy, students are to apply to the Human Ethics Research Review Panel through Research Services Office before conducting any research involving human subjects. Approval in writing must be granted by the Human Ethics Research Review Panel prior to commencing any research involving human subjects.
8.4 Advanced Research Tasks
8.4.1 A candidate shall, unless otherwise exempted by the Committee, complete and pass four advanced research tasks, and such other courses as may be prescribed by the Committee.
8.4.2 The assessment of each prescribed task shall comprise such combination of work, assignments, tests and formal examinations as may be determined by the Dean in consultation with the pro-tem supervisor and such other members of Faculty as deemed appropriate.
8.4.3 All advanced research tasks shall be graded as pass/fail, and a candidate must maintain a satisfactory level of achievement in all advanced research tasks for candidature to continue.
8.4.4 The Dean or Associate Dean (Research) shall report to the Committee and to the Faculty Research & Postgraduate Committee on the candidate's performance in the advanced research tasks and make recommendation on whether the candidature is to continue.
8.4.5 Satisfactory progression through the advanced research tasks shall culminate in a portfolio of written work approximately 30,000 to 40,000 words in length.
8.4.6 In the case where the candidate does not show satisfactory progress in the advanced research tasks, the candidate shall be given the opportunity to show cause why termination of their candidature should not occur.
8.5 The Research Proposal
8.5.1 The research proposal may not be submitted for examination until the four advanced research tasks are complete.
8.5.2 A candidate shall prepare under supervision, a research proposal of not less than 10,000 words which shall include a statement of the problem to be investigated; a summary review of the relevant literature; a justification of the proposed research methodology; and a plan outlining the proposed schedule of research. The proposal may contain elements that are revised and edited products of work undertaken in the advanced research tasks. In addition, the proposal shall contain a provisional title for the thesis, and as necessary, certification of ethical clearance for any research involving human subjects. (Such clearance shall be obtained from an Ethics Panel constituted in accord with recognised codes and guidelines).
8.5.3 The candidate shall defend the research proposal by way of a Colloquium, made up of a presentation at a Faculty Research Seminar and an oral defence to the Doctor of Education Panel (hereafter referred to as the Panel) constituted for the purpose of examination.
8.5.3.1 The Panel shall be appointed by the Dean who will have sought the advice of the pro-tem supervisor
8.5.3.2 The Panel, through its Chair, will advise the Dean according to one of the following five categories of result: • the proposal be accepted and the candidate be recommended to proceed to conduct the proposed research; • the proposal be accepted providing minor textual amendments are made and confirmed by the pro-tem supervisor; • the proposal be accepted with revisions, as specified and confirmed by the Chair of the Panel; • the proposal be resubmitted for examination with major revisions, as specified; • the proposal not be accepted and that the candidature be terminated.
8.5.3.3 The formal recommendation from the Dean to the Committee to proceed to the thesis component or for candidature to be terminated shall consist of: (i) a report from the Panel which shall include a report of the candidate's progress and an assessment of the ability of the candidate to proceed with the proposed program of research; (ii) a copy of the examined research proposal; and (iii) unless termination is recommended, the nomination of a principal supervisor and associate supervisor who shall guide the candidate through the thesis component.
8.5.3.4 The Committee, having given consideration to the recommendation of the Panel and the candidate's progress, may approve progression to the thesis component, terminate the candidature, or take such other action as deemed appropriate.
8.5.3.5 In approving progression to the thesis component and having considered the recommendation of the Panel, the Committee, in a formal Description of Candidature, shall:(i) approve the topic of research;(ii) appoint the supervisors; (iii) determine any special conditions that the candidate may be required to fulfil.
8.5.3.6 Where it is determined that a candidate shall not progress to the thesis component, the candidate shall be given the opportunity to show cause why such action should not be taken.
8.5.3.7 A candidate who is not permitted to progress to the thesis component may negotiate credit for successfully completed tasks towards one of the Masters degrees of the Faculty.
8.6 The Thesis Component
8.6.1 A candidate shall not commence the thesis component until the Committee is satisfied that the program of advanced research tasks have been completed successfully, and that the research proposal has been defended satisfactorily before the Doctor of Education Panel.
8.6.2 A candidate shall prepare under supervision a thesis based on the research proposal. The thesis shall constitute a substantial investigation into a selected aspect of professional educational practice and be approximately 50,000 words in length.
9.1 In special cases only, the Committee on the advice of the Dean, who will have sought the opinion of the pro-tem or principal supervisor as necessary, may grant leave of absence from the program of advanced study and research for a period of not less than one month and not exceeding twelve months. The period of such leave shall not be counted as part of the prescribed period of candidature. Candidates must provide independent documentation to support their application for a leave of absence.
9.2 The thesis shall normally be submitted within the prescribed period of candidature. A candidate may apply to the Committee, through the principal supervisor and the Dean, for an extension of the period of candidature. Such extension shall normally be granted only where the Committee is satisfied that the program of research has been prolonged owing to circumstances beyond the candidate's control. An extension beyond a twelve month period (2 years for part-time) shall not normally be granted.
The University encourages candidates to attend its campuses and to participate in the University research community.
10.1 Normally, part-time external candidates will be expected to attend on campus and meet with their supervisor for at least one week per year of enrolment.
10.2 Normally, candidates are required to attend in person to present their research proposal for examination.
10.3 Prior to progression to the thesis component, supervisors and the candidate should consult on the candidate's proposed attendance on campus for that component. The proposed attendance should form part of the recommendation for progression to the thesis component mutually agreed by the candidate and supervisors, recommended by the Dean and approved by the Committee.
10.4 The University reserves the right to vary the agreed attendance arrangements to require the candidate to attend on-campus for such period as the Committee determines, if such attendance is deemed necessary for the successful pursuit of the program of advanced study and research. Such variations will be discussed initially with the candidate's supervisor and the Dean.
11.1 The Committee, having considered the advice of the Dean, shall appoint a pro-tem supervisor who shall be responsible for providing the Dean with regular reports on the candidate's progress through the advanced research tasks and the preparation of the research proposal. In addition, the Dean may appoint such other supervisors as deemed appropriate to guide the candidate through these periods.
11.2 For the thesis component of the program, each candidate shall have a principal supervisor and at least one other supervisor as appointed by the Committee. The principal supervisor shall be a member of the staff of the University and shall be responsible for the day-to-day management and direction of the research component of the candidate's program. The pro-tem supervisor may be appointed to act in this capacity. An associate supervisor or a co-supervisor may be a member of the staff of the University or may be a discipline expert from outside the University.
11.3 The Dean shall recommend supervisors for appointment by the Committee.
11.4 The principal supervisor of a candidate for the degree of Doctor of Education shall normally be required to:
11.4.1 hold, as a minimum academic requirement, a Doctor of Philosophy or equivalent degree or have other equivalent research experience;
11.4.2 have experience in the supervision of research at higher degree level;
11.4.3 have relevant knowledge and experience in the topic area nominated by the doctoral candidate;
11.4.4 have sufficient time and access to adequate resources, taking account of total workload including the supervision of other higher degree candidates.
11.5 An associate supervisor of a candidate for the degree of Doctor of Education shall normally be required to:
11.5.1 have relevant knowledge and experience in the topic area nominated by the doctoral candidate;
11.5.2 liaise with the principal supervisor to provide additional supervisory support.
11.6 A co-supervisor of a candidate shall normally be required to:
11.6.1 fulfil all of the requirements of a principal supervisor listed in 11.4;
11.6.2 share supervisory work jointly with the principal supervisor.
11.7 A candidate shall consult the supervisors regularly during the course of developing and undertaking the prescribed program of research and during preparation of the thesis, and shall, as the supervisors may require, submit drafts of the thesis for advice and comment prior to its submission for examination.
11.8 The Committee shall, from time to time, provide advice for the guidance of supervisors.
11.9 It is acknowledged that the occasion may arise where it is necessary to make a change of supervisors.
11.9.1 The Dean of the Faculty may, at any time, on the request of the supervisors or of the candidate, recommend to the Committee a change of supervisor(s).
11.9.2 After candidature has commenced, the University shall not terminate a candidature because of inability to provide a supervisor.
11.9.3 If a principal supervisor is absent for an extended period of time, a co-supervisor or an associate supervisor who is a member of the staff of the University may be appointed as an acting supervisor.
12.1 On receipt of a documented request from the Committee, the candidate shall submit to the pro-tem/principal supervisor, half-yearly progress reports. The principal supervisor shall endorse the candidate's report and make any additional comments for the attention of the Dean who shall make recommendations to the Committee with respect to continuation of candidature.
12.2 Where, following consultation with the Dean, the Committee is of the opinion that the candidate has failed to:
12.2.1 make satisfactory progress in the work; or
12.2.2 furnish any report as required by these Rules; or
12.2.3 failed to meet those conditions of candidature required by the Committee; then the candidature may be terminated.
12.3 As a matter of normal practice, a candidature shall not be terminated on the basis of unsatisfactory progress unless the Committee is satisfied that a reasonable attempt has been made to ensure that the candidate has been:
12.3.1 advised of shortcomings in research performance;
12.3.2 advised of means of overcoming these shortcomings and of obtaining a satisfactory standard of performance in the research; and
12.3.3 provided the opportunity to take action as directed.
13.1 The candidate shall give notice, through the principal supervisor, of intention to submit a thesis no less than twelve (12) weeks prior to the proposed date of submission.
13.1.1 The principal supervisor shall certify on the notice of intention to submit a thesis, that the candidate has completed all studies prescribed for the degree and will be able to submit the thesis in a form suitable for examination by the indicated date. Such certification is not intended to pre-empt the decision of the examiners and does not hold the supervisor responsible for any deficiencies in the thesis as may be perceived by the examiners.
13.1.2 The Dean of the Faculty shall endorse the notice as evidence of receipt of information of the candidate's intention to submit.
13.1.3 Where, following consultation with the other supervisors, the principal supervisor has any doubt as to whether the candidate is ready to submit the thesis, the supervisor is not required to endorse the notice. The principal supervisor is required, however, to advise the candidate and the Committee of the reasons why support has not been given.
13.1.4 Where the principal supervisor refuses to endorse the notice of intention to submit, the candidate may appeal to the Committee, through the Dean of the Faculty, to submit the thesis for examination.
13.2 The candidate shall ensure that the University's "Requirements for the Presentation of Research Theses" as promulgated by the Committee, have been met.
13.2.1 The principal supervisor shall read the thesis and certify that the standard of presentation satisfies the requirements of the University and that the thesis is in a form acceptable for examination.
13.2.2 Where the principal supervisor is unable or unwilling to provide such endorsement, it is expected that the candidate will be advised of the necessary corrective action.
13.2.3 In cases where the principal supervisor is unable or unwilling to sign the certificate, the Dean of the Faculty will make further enquiries and report to the Board. The Committee may decide to accept the thesis for examination or refer it back to the candidate for action as directed.
13.3 The candidate is required to submit the thesis and requisite copies to the Research Services Office by the indicated date.
13.4 The thesis shall be a coherent exposition of the research study and follow an ordered sequence in which the research objectives, methodology and strategies employed, and the results obtained, are identified. The main text shall include a critique of the conclusions or results arrived at.
13.5 The thesis shall not include, in the main text, work submitted for another degree at the University or another tertiary institution. The thesis shall be prefaced by a declaration by the candidate that this condition is satisfied and that the main text of the thesis is an original work by the candidate.
13.6 In the event that an examined thesis is required to be amended or substantially revised, such amendment and/or revision will be conducted within a prescribed time which shall not exceed twelve months.
13.7 The University requires that examined theses are deposited in the University Library and that theses shall be generally available for the purposes of research and private study. It is acknowledged, however, that certain research projects may involve the use or production of information which is confidential in nature.
13.8 Where an entire thesis or parts thereof contain(s) confidential information which cannot be made freely available, the candidate may apply to the Committee for approval to restrict access to the Library copy of the thesis, at the time of submission for examination.
13.9 Notwithstanding Section 16 below, restricted access shall normally be granted for a period of twelve months in the first instance. An extension beyond this period shall be at the discretion of the Committee.
13.10 In addition to the prescribed thesis, a candidate shall be required to submit as a separate volume, a portfolio of written work comprising all prescribed work assessed during the candidate's progression through the program of advanced research tasks and preparation of the research proposal. The portfolio will not be sent with the thesis for examination.
14.1 Upon notification that the candidate is about to submit a thesis, the Committee shall appoint, after consultation with the Dean of the Faculty concerned, at least three (one to be used as a reserve) examiners of the thesis. Normally, all examiners will be external to the University, however where there is a well justified case, one internal examiner may be appointed. The nominated internal examiner must have had no intellectual involvement with the preparation of the candidates’ thesis or the program of study. The candidate’s supervisors shall not be appointed as an examiner.
14.2 Candidates may nominate to the Dean of the Faculty of Education & Creative Arts, the names of any person who they consider should not be appointed as an examiner. Candidates must provide reasons for the objections in writing.
14.3 The examiners and a Chair of Examiners shall constitute the Examination Panel. The Chair of Examiners is a full-time member of the University's academic or research staff and is appointed with regard to their general knowledge of standards in respect of doctoral research and the University's policies and procedures for the examination of theses.
14.4 Each examiner, although at liberty to consult with other examiners, shall submit an independent report and recommendation on the approved form. An examiner may request the Committee Chair to question the candidate on any aspect of the work, in which case a copy of the question and the answer shall be sent to the other examiners by the Committee Secretary. Examiners' reports shall remain confidential until a recommendation is made by the Committee. After such time, candidates shall receive complete copies of the examiners' reports. Examiners may request that their identities remain confidential.
14.5 A thesis for the degree is expected to demonstrate the candidate's:
14.5.1 knowledge of the research topic and the discipline(s) it embraces;
14.5.2 capacity for clear, methodical thinking;
14.5.3 mastery of analytical techniques appropriate to the research;
14.5.4 ability to present the results of the research in a succinct and cogent form, with suitable illustration;
14.5.5 original contribution to knowledge and/or professional practice.
14.6 An examiner's report shall conclude with one of the following recommendations:
14.6.1 that the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
14.6.2 that, provided specified textual errors are corrected to the satisfaction of the Chair of Examiners, the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
14.6.3 that, provided nominated passages are revised to the satisfaction of the Chair of Examiners, the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
14.6.4 that, the thesis does not meet the standard expected for the degree, and the candidate be required to carry out additional work as directed and resubmit the thesis for re-examination;
14.6.5 that the thesis be rejected and that the degree not be awarded.
14.7 Where, following consideration of the reports of the Examination Panel, it is determined that the thesis does not meet the standard expected for the degree, but the Committee is satisfied that the research is of suitable merit, the Committee may recommend that the candidate negotiate with the Faculty for credit towards one of the Masters degrees offered by the Faculty.
14.8 A candidate who has revised a thesis in terms of paragraph 14.6.4 and whose thesis fails re-examination, shall not be eligible to resubmit the thesis for any further examination.
14.9 The Chair of Examiners shall consider the recommendations of the examiners and shall submit a report to the Committee on the results of the examination. Such reports will include the text of the examiners' reports on the thesis, and any additional assessment the candidate has been required to undergo, any comments from the supervisors, and the recommendation of the Chair of Examiners.
14.10 The Committee may accept the recommendation contained in the report of the Chair Examiners or refer the report back to the Examination Panel for further consideration.
15.1 Where the Committee concludes:
15.1.1 on the advice of the Dean that the candidate has obtained a satisfactory level of achievement in the program of advanced research tasks; and
15.1.2 on the basis of the recommendation of the Panel that the candidate's presentation and oral defence of the research proposal was satisfactory; and
15.1.3 after considering the report of the Chair of Examiners that the candidate's thesis is appropriate for the award of the degree;
15.1 it shall recommend that the degree be awarded
15.2 Where the Committee concludes on the basis of considerations referred to in the preceding paragraph, that the candidate's performance in any component of the course was not satisfactory, it may determine:
15.2.1 that the degree should not be awarded; or
15.2.2 recommend such further examinations or such other action as deemed appropriate.
15.3 The Committee shall notify the Dean and Chair of the Faculty Research & Postgraduate Committee of its determination(s).
16.1 Where research projects are conducted in cooperation with, or under the sponsorship of industry, or where the intellectual property may have commercial significance, the University requires that negotiations with respect to the ownership of any intellectual property arising from or associated with the research project, be formalised prior to the confirmation of candidature.
16.2 In the event that details of any intellectual property or process improvement is contained within a thesis, and where the candidate does not seek to restrict public access to that thesis as pursuant to Clause 13.8, the principal supervisor may seek to protect the interests of the University and/or sponsor and apply through the Board for such restriction to be approved.
16.3 In the event that a doctoral thesis contains sensitive or potentially patentable research results, the University shall ensure that examiners sign an appropriate confidentiality agreement prior to examining the thesis. The University shall take whatever other action is necessary to protect patentable material contained in theses in a way, which will not introduce undue delay in the awarding of the degree.
16.4 In all other cases, and consistent with University’s Intellectual Property and Moral Rights Policy (especially relating to patents, royalties and proprietary information which are still being formulated), the candidate shall normally hold copyright of any intellectual property associated with or arising from their research project.
17.1 A full-time candidate who is not a scholarship holder may undertake paid employment if the Dean, after consulting the candidate's supervisor(s), is satisfied that the candidate's progress will not be impeded by the amount of work undertaken.
17.2 The maximum amount of employment that could be undertaken by the holder of a scholarship or like award, will be as prescribed by the granting agency in its conditions of award.
18.1 The Committee shall determine whether or not the candidate has satisfied the requirements for the degree and recommend its award to Academic Board
18.2 The award shall be conferred by the Council of Central Queensland University.
19.1 A candidate who has reasonable grounds for dissatisfaction with any formal decision made with respect to the candidature and/or the examination and assessment of the thesis, may appeal, in writing, to the Appeals Committee of Academic Board. An appeal shall be received by the Vice-President and Registrar within one month of formal notification of the decision.
These regulations apply to Masters by Research degrees as determined by the University.
2.1 In these Rules unless the context otherwise indicates or requires, the term "the Committee" shall mean the Research Committee which is a subcommittee to the Academic Board of the Central Queensland University.
2.2 A Dean of Faculty is given considerable duties and responsibilities in managing research higher degrees by the Rules. In discharging these duties, the Dean may elect to delegate such responsibility to the Associate Dean (Research) and/or consult with and refer for advice to the supervisors, the candidate, and such other members of the Faculty as appropriate. In addition, the Faculty Research Committee has responsibility to monitor the enrolment and progress of research higher degree candidates and provide advice as appropriate to the Committee.
3.1 A candidate for admission to a program of research leading to a Masters degree shall normally be expected to hold either:
3.1.1 an honours degree from the University or any other approved institution in a relevant discipline; or
3.1.2 a pass degree and a graduate diploma at a high level of academic performance in a relevant discipline; or
3.1.3 a pass degree at a high level of academic performance in a relevant discipline, plus a minimum of one year's relevant work experience; or
3.1.4 a four-year undergraduate degree at a high level of academic performance; or
3.1.5 an alternative qualification deemed by the Committee to be of equivalent scope and standard.
3.2 Persons holding only a pass degree, and who do not satisfy any of those criteria specified above, will be required to undertake a Masters qualifying/enabling program, normally of only one year's (full-time) duration, as specified in the University's resolution on Masters qualifying programs.
4.1 An application for admission to candidature can be made at any time of the year and shall be made in the prescribed manner and shall include details of the proposed field of research to be pursued for the purpose of obtaining the degree, and documentary evidence of relevant qualifications.
4.2 In the program of preparing an application for admission, an applicant is encouraged to consult with the appropriate Faculty to determine eligibility for admission, the proposed area of research, and the availability of supervision.
5.1 An applicant may be admitted following recommendation through the relevant Dean of Faculty and as approved by the Committee. Candidature shall normally be approved provided that the Committee is satisfied that:
5.1.1 the applicant's qualifications meet the provisions of Section 3;
5.1.2 appropriate supervision, as defined in Section 10, is available;
5.1.3 the applicant's proposed field of research can be supported, with respect to facilities and resources, by the Faculty to which admission is sought;
5.1.4 an appropriate place is available.
5.2 The Dean of Faculty may recommend to the Committee that an applicant be granted advanced standing for work done at another institution at the same level of course, or for relevant research expertise. Normally, candidates granted advanced standing must complete a minimum of one year’s full-time study or equivalent part-time study as a candidate of the University. In instances of application for advanced standing, the minimum completion time may be negotiated further with the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Academic Development).
5.3 In approving admission to candidature, and having considered the recommendations of the Faculty concerned, the Committee shall, in a formal Description of Candidature to be provided to the applicant in the offer of admission:
5.3.1 determine the date which shall be deemed the date of commencement of candidature;
5.3.2 determine the Faculty or department in which the program will be undertaken;
5.3.3 appoint the supervisor(s);
5.3.4 approve any program of coursework which must be satisfactorily completed prior to submission of the research thesis;
5.3.5 approve the proposed field of research;
5.3.6 determine any special conditions that the candidate may be required to fulfil.
5.4 Candidature shall be deemed to have commenced as at the date prescribed by the Committee and as confirmed by the candidate when accepting the offer of admission.
6.1 A commencing candidate shall enrol within 28 days of commencement of candidature.
6.2 A continuing candidate shall be required to re-enrol at the commencement of each year.
6.3 In the event that an examined thesis must be resubmitted as in paragraph 13.7.4, the candidate shall be required to re-enrol for a prescribed period which shall not exceed twelve (12) months.
7.1 A candidate may be accepted as a full-time candidate or as a part-time candidate. The proposed program of study may be undertaken in either the internal or off-campus modes. Permission to enrol as an off-campus candidate shall only be granted where:
7.1.1 a clear project definition, including a timescale and schedule for regular progress reports, can be determined.
7.1.2 appropriate supervision can be arranged;
7.1.3 access can be guaranteed to laboratories, equipment, research literature and resource materials as necessary for the successful completion of the research; and
7.1.4 the candidate agrees to attend the University for such periods and purposes connected with the candidature as specified in Section 9.
7.2 A candidate may transfer from one classification to another on such terms as the Committee may approve.
8.1 A candidate shall, in not less than one year nor more than two years (or the equivalent for a part-time candidate), pursue a program of supervised research and study, as approved by the Committee, leading to the submission of a thesis.
8.2 In special cases only, and as requested by the candidate and endorsed by the principal supervisor, the Committee may grant leave of absence from the program of research and study for a period of not less than one month and not exceeding twelve months. Candidates must provide independent documentation supporting their application for a leave of absence. The period of such leave shall not be counted as part of the prescribed period of candidature. A candidate resuming after such a leave of absence shall be enrolled for not less than one half year before being permitted to submit a thesis.
Where a request from the candidate for leave of absence is not granted, the candidate may continue with candidature, withdraw from the candidature, or appeal the decision through the Appeals Committee of Academic Board
8.3 The candidate shall pursue an approved program of research and study, and prepare a thesis under the immediate direction of the supervisors. The candidate shall attend such classes and do such work as directed by the supervisor, and shall attend the University for consultation or other purposes as required by the supervisor, and as agreed by the Dean.
8.4 The candidate will be required to present at an appropriate scholarly or professional venue one seminar on the approved area of research; such presentation being an unassessed component of the candidature.
8.5 Within the first nine months of candidature (eighteen months of part-time), the candidate shall develop, in consultation with the supervisors, a detailed program of research and study. The recommendation to the Committee, for continuation of candidature, should be completed within 12 months from the date of commencement of full-time candidature (24 months part-time).
8.6 The program shall report on work undertaken to date and elaborate upon the brief outline of the research proposal submitted prior to admission to candidature (refer to Section 4), and shall provide reasons for any significant departure from the original proposal. In addition the program shall contain a provisional title for the thesis and, as necessary, certification of ethical clearance for any research involving animal and/or human subjects. (Such clearance shall be obtained from a Panel constituted in accord with recognised codes and guidelines).
8.7 In cases as described in paragraph 14.1, a statement of agreement between interested parties with respect to the disbursement of intellectual property rights shall be appended to the program described above. This statement shall be read and annotated as necessary by the supervisors and Dean prior to being referred to the Committee for consideration.
8.8 Where a candidate wishes to change the focus of the research such that it represents a significant departure from the approved program of research and study, the candidate shall be required to submit a revised program as prescribed in paragraph 8.6.
The requisite program shall be submitted through the principal supervisor to the Dean of Faculty who shall make such comments as deemed appropriate and refer the matter to the Committee for consideration.
8.9 The thesis shall normally be submitted within the prescribed period of candidature. A candidate may apply to the Committee, through the principal supervisor, for an extension of the period of candidature. Such extensions shall normally be granted only where the Committee is convinced that the program of research has been prolonged owing to circumstances beyond the candidate's control. An extension beyond a twelve month period (2 years for part-time candidates) shall not normally be granted.
8.10 Candidature shall terminate on the date of submission of the thesis for examination.
9.1 The University encourages students to attend its campuses and to be part of the University community. However, it recognises that what might be appropriate attendance for the study program or research activities for one candidate might be inappropriate for another.
9.2 In the course of the development of the program of research and study, supervisors and candidates shall consult on the candidate's proposed attendance on campus during the Masters program. The proposed attendance should form part of the research program mutually agreed by the candidate and supervisors, supported by the Dean and approved by the Committee.
9.3 The University reserves the right to vary the agreed attendance arrangement to require the student to attend on campus for such period as the Committee determines if such attendance is felt to be necessary for the successful pursuit of the study program. Such variations will be discussed initially with the candidate's supervisors, and the Dean.
10.1 A candidate undertaking a higher degree by research shall have a principal supervisor and at least one other supervisor. The principal supervisor shall be a member of the staff of the University. An associate supervisor or a co-supervisor may be a member of the staff of the University or may be a discipline expert from outside the University.
10.2 The Dean of the relevant Faculty shall recommend supervisors for appointment by the Committee.
10.3 The principal supervisor of a research Masters candidate shall normally be required to:
10.3.1 hold, as a minimum academic requirement, an appropriate Masters degree or have other equivalent research experience;
10.3.2 have experience in the supervision of research at higher degree level;
10.3.3 have relevant knowledge and expertise in the topic area nominated by the Masters candidate;
10.3.4 have sufficient time and access to adequate resources, taking account of total work load including the supervision of other higher degree candidates.
10.4 An associate supervisor of a candidate for the Masters degree shall normally be required to:
10.4.1 have relevant knowledge and experience in the topic area nominated by the Masters candidate;
10.4.2 liaise with the principal supervisor to provide additional supervisory support.
10.5 A co-supervisor of a candidate shall normally be required to:
10.5.1 fulfil all of the requirements of a principal supervisor listed in 10.3;
10.5.2 share supervisory tasks jointly with the principal supervisor.
10.6 A candidate shall consult the supervisors regularly during the program of the prescribed program of research and during preparation of the thesis, and shall, as the supervisors may require, submit drafts of the thesis for advice and comment prior to its submission for examination.
10.7 The Committee shall, from time to time, provide advice for the guidance of supervisors.
10.8 It is acknowledged that the occasion may arise where it is necessary to make a change of supervisor(s).
10.8.1 The Dean of Faculty may, at any time, on the request of the supervisor(s) or of the candidate, recommend to the Committee a change of supervisor(s).
10.8.2 Where, after consultation with the Dean of Faculty concerned, a candidate remains dissatisfied with the supervision, the candidate may apply to the Committee for a change of supervisor(s).
10.8.3 After candidature has commenced, the University shall not terminate a candidature because of inability to provide a supervisor.
10.8.4 If a principal supervisor is absent for an extended period of time, a co-supervisor or an associate supervisor who is a member of the staff of the University may be appointed as a pro-tem supervisor.
11.1 On receipt of a documented request from the Committee, the candidate shall submit to the principal supervisor a half-yearly progress report. The principal supervisor shall endorse the candidate's report and make any additional comments for the attention of the Dean of Faculty, who shall make recommendation to the Committee with respect to continuation of candidature. Half-yearly reports shall be submitted no later than 30 April and 30 September.
11.2 Where, following consultation with the Dean of Faculty concerned, the Committee is of the opinion that the candidate has failed to:
11.2.1 make satisfactory academic progress in the work; or
11.2.2 furnish any report as required by these Rules; or
11.2.3 failed to meet those conditions of candidature imposed by the Committee then the candidature may be terminated.
11.3 As a matter of normal practice, a candidature shall not be terminated unless the Committee is satisfied that a reasonable attempt has been made to ensure that the candidate has been:
11.3.1 clearly warned of shortcomings in research performance;
11.3.2 advised of means of overcoming these shortcomings and of obtaining a satisfactory standard of performance in the research; and
11.3.3 provided the opportunity to take action as directed.
12.1 The candidate shall give notice, through the principal supervisor, of the intention to submit a thesis no less than twelve (12) weeks prior to the proposed date of submission. Such notice shall include the full title of the thesis.
12.1.1 The principal supervisor shall certify on the notice of intention to submit a thesis that the candidate has completed all studies prescribed for the degree and will be able to submit the thesis in a form suitable for examination by the indicated date. Such certification is not intended to pre-empt the decision of the examiners and does not hold the supervisor responsible for any deficiencies in the thesis as perceived by the examiners.
12.1.2 The Dean shall endorse the notice as evidence of receipt of information of the candidate's intention to submit.
12.1.3 Where, following consultation with the other supervisor(s), the principal supervisor has any doubt as to whether the candidate is ready to submit the thesis, the supervisor is not required to endorse the notice. The principal supervisor is required, however, to advise the candidate and the Committee of the reasons why support has not been forthcoming.
12.1.4 Where the principal supervisor refuses to endorse the notice for reasons other than failure to complete prescribed studies, the candidate may appeal to the Committee, through the Dean of Faculty, to submit the thesis for examination.
12.2 The candidate shall ensure that the University's "Requirements for the Presentation of Research Theses" as promulgated by the Committee have been met.
12.2.1 The principal supervisor shall read the thesis and certify that the standard of presentation satisfies the requirements of the University and that the thesis is in the form acceptable for examination.
12.2.2 Where the principal supervisor is unable or unwilling to provide such endorsement, it is expected that the candidate will be advised of the necessary corrective action.
12.2.3 In cases where the principal supervisor is unable or unwilling to sign the certificate, the Dean of Faculty will make further enquiries and report to the Committee. The Committee may decide to accept the thesis for examination or refer it back to the candidate for action as directed.
12.3 The candidate is required to submit the thesis and requisite copies to the Research Services Office by the indicated date.
12.4 The thesis shall be a coherent exposition of the research study and follow an ordered sequence in which the research objectives, methodology and strategies employed, and the results obtained, are identified. The main text shall include a critique of the conclusions or results arrived at.
12.5 The thesis shall not include, in the main text, work submitted for another degree at the University or another tertiary institution. The thesis shall be prefaced by a declaration by the candidate that this condition is satisfied and that the main text of the thesis is an original work by the candidate.
12.6 In the event that an examined thesis is required to be amended or substantially revised, such amendment and/or revision will be conducted within a prescribed time which shall not exceed twelve months.
12.7 The University requires that examined theses are deposited in the University Library and that theses shall be generally available for the purposes of research and private study. It is acknowledged, however, that certain research projects may involve the use of production of information which is confidential in nature.
12.8 Where an entire thesis or parts thereof contain(s) confidential information which cannot be made freely available, the candidate may apply, at the time of submission for examination, to the Committee for approval to restrict access to the Library copy of the thesis.
12.9 Notwithstanding Section 14 below, restricted access shall normally be granted for a period of twelve months in the first instance. An extension beyond this period shall be at the discretion of the Committee.
13.1 Upon notification that the candidate is about to submit a thesis, the Committee shall appoint, after consultation with the Dean of Faculty concerned, at least three (one to be used as a reserve) examiners of the thesis. Normally, all examiners will be external to the university, however where there is a well justified case, one internal examiner may be appointed. The nominated internal examiner must have had no intellectual involvement with the preparation of the candidates’ thesis or the program of study. The candidate’s supervisors shall not be appointed as an examiner.
13.2 Candidates may nominate to the Dean of Faculty the names of any person who they consider should not be appointed as an examiner. Candidates must provide reasons for the objections in writing.
13.3 The examiners and Chair of Examiners shall constitute the Examination Panel. The Chair of Examiners is a full-time member of the University's academic or research staff and is appointed with regard to their general knowledge of standards in respect of masters research and the University's policies and procedures for the examination of theses.
13.4 Each examiner, although at liberty to consult with other examiners, shall submit an independent report and recommendation on the approved form. An examiner may request the Committee Chair to question the candidate on any aspect of the work, in which case a copy of the question and the answer shall be sent to the other examiner(s) by the Research Higher Degrees Officer. Examiners' reports shall remain confidential until a recommendation is made by the Committee. After such time, candidates shall receive complete copies of the examiners' reports. Examiners may request that their identities remain confidential.
13.5 Examiners may require the candidate to undertake such oral, written or practical examinations as deemed appropriate.
13.6 A thesis for the degree of Master by research, is expected to demonstrate the candidate's:
13.6.1 knowledge of the research topic and the discipline(s) it embraces;
13.6.2 capacity for clear, methodical thinking;
13.6.3 mastery of analytical techniques appropriate to the research;
13.6.4 ability to present the results of the research in a succinct and cogent form, with suitable illustration; and
13.6.5 contribution to knowledge.
13.7 An examiner's report shall conclude with one of the following recommendations:
13.7.1 that the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.7.2 that, provided the listed textual errors are corrected to the satisfaction of the Chair of Examiners, the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.7.3 that, provided the nominated passages are revised to the satisfaction of the Chair of Examiners, the thesis be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.7.4 that, although the thesis does not meet the standard expected for the degree, the candidate be required to carry out additional work as directed and resubmit the thesis for re-examination;
13.7.5 that the thesis be rejected and that the degree not be awarded.
13.8 A candidate who has revised a thesis in terms of paragraph 13.7.4 and who fails the re-examination shall not be eligible for any further examination.
13.9 The Chair of Examiners shall consider the recommendations of the examiners and shall submit a report to the Committee on the results of the examination. Such report will include the text of the examiners' reports on the thesis, and any additional assessment the candidate has been required to undergo, any comments from the supervisor(s), and the recommendation of the Chair of Examiners.
13.10 The Committee may accept the recommendation contained in the report of the Chair of Examiners or refer the report back to the Examination Committee for further consideration.
14.1 Where research projects are conducted in cooperation with or under the sponsorship of industry, or where the intellectual property may have commercial significance, the University requires that negotiations with respect to the ownership of any intellectual property arising from or associated with the research project be formalised within the first six months of candidature.
14.2 In the event that details of any intellectual property or process improvement are contained within a thesis, and where the candidate does not seek to restrict public access to that thesis as pursuant to paragraph 12.9, the principal supervisor may seek to protect the interests of the University and/or sponsor and apply through the Committee for such restriction to be approved.
14.3 In the event that a Masters thesis contains sensitive or potentially patentable research results, the University shall ensure that examiners sign an appropriate confidentiality agreement prior to examining the thesis. The University shall take whatever other action is necessary to protect patentable material contained in theses in a way which will not introduce undue delay in the awarding of the Masters degree.
14.4 In all other cases, and consistent with University’s Intellectual Property and Moral Rights Policy (especially relating to patents, royalties and proprietary information which are still being formulated), the candidate shall normally hold copyright of any intellectual property associated with or arising from his/her research project.
15.1 A full-time candidate who is not a scholarship holder may undertake paid employment if the Dean of Faculty concerned, after consulting the candidate's supervisor(s), is satisfied that the candidate's progress will not be impeded by the amount of work undertaken.
15.2 The maximum amount of employment that could be undertaken by the holder of a scholarship or like award will be as prescribed by the granting agency in its conditions of award.
16.1 The Committee shall determine whether or not the candidate has satisfied the requirements for the degree and recommend its award to the Academic Board.
16.2 The award shall be conferred by the Council of the Central Queensland University.
17.1 A candidate who has reasonable grounds for dissatisfaction with any formal decision made with respect to the candidature and/or the examination and assessment of the thesis may appeal, in writing, to the Appeals Committee of Academic Board. An appeal shall be received by the Vice-President and Registrar within one month of formal notification of the decision.
These Rules apply to the degree of Professional Doctorate (DProf) offered by Central Queensland University.
2.1 In these Rules, unless the context otherwise indicates or requires:
2.1.1 the term ‘the Panel’ shall mean the Professional Doctorate Panel of the Academic Board of the University;
2.1.2 the term ‘the Dean’ shall mean the Dean of Faculty in which the project is being undertaken;
2.1.3 the term ‘supervisor’ means a person with experience at higher degree level appointed by the Panel who shall normally be a member of the academic staff of the University;
2.1.4 the term ‘advisor’ means a person appointed by the Panel from industry or with relevant industry experience;
2.1.5 the term ‘Program Executive Director’ means a senior member of the academic staff of the University, appointed by the Vice-Chancellor on the recommendation of the Panel, who has responsibility for the day-to-day administration of the Professional Doctorate program.
3.1 A person may be considered for candidature for the degree of Professional Doctorate if that person has:
3.1.1 qualified at the University for the award of a Masters degree;
3.1.2 qualified for a Masters degree at another university that is recognised by the Panel as providing a Masters degree of a standard at least equivalent to an Australian Masters degree; or
3.1.3 a qualification deemed by the Panel to be equivalent to a Masters degree of the University; and
3.1.4 significant professional employment experience to the satisfaction of the Panel.
4.1 An application for admission to candidature can be made at any time of the year, shall be made in the prescribed manner, and shall include documentary evidence of relevant qualifications.
4.2 In the course of preparing an application for admission, an applicant is encouraged to consult the Program Executive Director.
5.1 The Panel may approve an application for admission provided the program Executive Director has certified that:
5.1.1 the applicant has satisfied the provisions contained in section 3;
5.1.2 an appropriate industrial or workplace site is available to the applicant for undertaking the project; and
5.1.3 the Dean has certified that appropriate supervision can be provided.
5.2 In approving admission to candidature, and having considered any recommendations made by the Program Executive Director, the Panel shall determine:
5.2.1 the term in which the candidate may commence;
5.2.2 the Faculty within which the project shall be supervised;
5.2.3 the enrolment status of the candidate in accordance with sub-section 7.1; and
5.2.4 any additional requirements to be met by the candidate.
6.1 A commencing candidate shall enrol, in the manner prescribed by the University, prior to the start of the term specified by the Panel.
6.2 A continuing student is required to re-enrol at the start of each academic year.
6.3 In the event that an extension is required by a candidate to complete the project or that additional work on the project is required by the examiners in accordance with sub-section 13.6 4, the candidate shall be required to re-enrol and pay the prescribed fees.
7.1 An applicant may be accepted as a full-time candidate or as a part-time candidate. The proposed program may be undertaken in nominated locations in either internal or off-campus (external) modes. Permission to enrol as an off-campus (external) candidate shall only be granted by the Panel where:
7.1.1 appropriate supervision can be arranged;
7.1.2 access can be guaranteed to equipment, research literature and resource materials as necessary for the successful completion of the candidate’s program; and
7.1.3 the candidate agrees to attend the compulsory workshops at the designated venues for such periods and purposes connected with candidature as prescribed in section 9.
7.2 A candidate shall satisfactorily complete the coursework components of the program and achieve a passing standard in the prescribed assignment items before being permitted to enrol for the project.
7.3 Candidature shall cease on the date of submission for examination of the candidate’s project.
8.1 Upon first enrolling for the degree of Professional Doctorate a full-time candidate shall, in not fewer than two years nor more than three years (or the equivalent for a part-time candidate) pursue a supervised program of study and industry-based development work, as approved by the Panel, leading to an examinable project.
8.2 The program of study shall consist of:
8.2.1 six transdisciplinary courses chosen from the schedule to these Rules;
8.2.2 four assessable assignments, one of which shall be the ‘focus question’ that defines the project;
8.2.3 a project; and
8.2.4 a review of the program by the candidate.
8.3 Students will obtain a ‘pass’ grade in all four assessment items before enrolling in the project.
8.4 Where a candidate wishes to undertake a project in collaboration with one or more other candidates the details of each candidate’s proposed contribution must be provided to the Program Executive Director. Any collaborative project must have received approval by the Panel before the candidates enrol for the project.
8.5 The Panel may require a candidate to undertake additional study in research methods where it considers the candidate lacks necessary skills or experience to successfully complete a proposed project.
8.6 In accordance with the University’s policy, candidates are to apply to the Human Ethics Research Review Panel, through the Research Services Office, before conducting any research involving human subjects. Before commencing such research candidates must receive approval in writing of their ethics application.
9.1 Candidates are required to attend the prescribed workshops and other face-to-face sessions associated with the six transdisciplinary courses.
9.2 The University reserves the right to vary the agreed attendance requirements, as the Panel may determine, if such attendance is felt to be necessary for the successful completion of the study program.
9.3 Leave of absence for up to 6 months may be granted by the Panel. Students will apply in writing for such leave of absence.
10.1 A candidate shall have a supervisor and an advisor, both appointed by the Panel. These appointments shall be made before the candidate enrols for part A of the project.
10.2 Recommendations on the appointment of a supervisor and an advisor shall be made by the Dean to the Program Executive Director.
10.3 The responsibilities of the supervisor shall be to ensure scholarly quality and rigour in the selection and completion of the project by the candidate.
10.4 The role of the advisor shall be to provide advice and counsel to both the candidate and the supervisor on the value and credibility of the project for the industry or workplace in which it is being undertaken.
10.5 The panel will appoint a replacement supervisor within four weeks in the event that the original supervisor is unable to continue through illness, absence or resignation. A replacement advisor will be appointed within eight weeks in the event that the original advisor is unable to continue in the role.
10.6 It is the responsibility of the candidate to maintain regular contact with both the supervisor and the advisor.
10.7 Development of the topic of the project from the focus question referred to in sub-section 8.2.2 shall be undertaken in consultation with the supervisor and advisor, and the project proposal must be submitted to the Program Executive Director within the first term of enrolment for part A. The Program Executive Director may:
10.7.1 confirm enrolment for the project;
10.7.2 confirm enrolment for the project following satisfactory completion of additional preparatory study; or
10.7.3 recommend to the Panel that candidature be terminated.
11.1 At the conclusion of the term during which the candidate has been enrolled for part A of the project a progress report shall be submitted by the candidate to the supervisor. That report, together with an assessment by the supervisor and the advisor of the progress being made on the project and the likelihood of its successful and timely completion will be provided to the Dean. A copy shall also be given to the Program Executive Director who, in the event of a negative report, shall advise the Panel which may take such action as it considers appropriate.
11.2 As a matter of normal practice, candidature shall not be terminated on the basis of unsatisfactory progress unless the Panel is satisfied that a reasonable attempt has been made to ensure that the candidate has been:
11.2.1 advised of shortcomings in study performance;
11.2.2 advised of means of overcoming these shortcomings; and
11.2.3 provided the opportunity to take action as directed.
11.3 No decision to terminate candidature shall be made before the candidate has been permitted to show cause why termination should not occur.
12.1 At the conclusion of the program of study three copies of portfolio work must be submitted. The portfolio shall include:
12.1.1 the project;
12.1.2 a reflection on the program of study the candidate has undertaken;
12.1.3 appendices containing each of the four assessment assignments;
12.1.4 confirmation by the supervisor and advisor that the project is suitable to be submitted for examination.
Candidates will be issued by the Program Executive Director with details of the manner in which the portfolio is to be prepared and submitted.
12.2 Where a project has been undertaken collaboratively each candidate shall supply a statement indicating the contribution each made to the project. These statements must include written confirmation that the other candidates concur with the assessment of individual contribution and the statements will be provided to the examiners. In the event of disagreeement among the candidates over the levels of contribution the Program Executive Director shall seek advice from the supervisor and the advisor.
12.3 On the recommedation of the Dean, the Progam Executive Director may approve enrolment for a further term to permit completion of the project. An extension beyond one term will require approval by the Dean. Extensions beyond two terms will be granted by the Panel only where there have been exceptional circumstances beyond the control of the candidate.
12.4 The University requires that examined projects be deposited in the University Library, in electronic format, where possible, so that they shall generally be available for the purposes of research and private study. It is acknowledged, however, that certain projects may involve the use or production of information that is confidential in nature.
12.5 Where an entire project contains confidential information, or parts contain such information, the candidate may apply to the Panel for approval to restrict access to the Library copy of the project, at the time of submission for examination.
12.6 Notwithstanding section 14 below, restricted access will normally be granted for a period of not more than twelve months in the first instance. An extension beyond this period shall be at the discretion of the Panel.
13.1 The Panel will appoint at least two examiners, as follows:
13.1.1 one examiner shall be from an industry allied to the topic of the project; and
13.1.2 one examiner shall be a member of the academic staff of another university approved by the panel.
The Program Executive Director shall recommend examiners to the Panel following consultation with the supervisor, advisor and Dean.
13.2 Neither the supervisor nor the advisor shall be appointed as an examiner.
13.3 Candidates may advise the Dean of the names of any persons they consider should not be appointed as an examiner. Candidates must provide reasons for their objections in writing.
13.4 The examiners, although at liberty to consult each other, shall submit an independent report and recommendation on the approved form. Examiners’ reports shall remain confidential until a determination is made by the Panel. At such time candidates shall receive complete copies of the reports. Examiners may request that their identities remain confidential to the candidate.
13.5 Examiners will be required to evaluate the project using the following criteria:
13.5.1 relevance and contribution to an organisation - assessment will be on problem-solving action taken or proposed rather than formal analytic argument and content;
13.5.2 future focussed - a lucid and compelling argument must be provided on how the learning derived will or might be applied in the candidate’s industry in future;
13.5.3 capacity to communicate clearly with an audience of peers in the field;
13.5.4 referencing that is in a consistent and scholarly format within the conventions of formal writing and reporting normally expected in the candidate’s field;
13.5.5 use of appropriate standards of layout, spelling and grammar;
13.5.6 use of appropriate research techniques and analysis;
13.5.7 due consideration being given to ethical issues.
13.6 An examiner’s report shall conclude with one of the following recommendations:
13.6.1 that the project be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.6.2 that, provided specified errors are corrected to the satisfaction of the Program Executive Director, the project be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.6.3 that, provided nominated elements are revised to the satisfaction of the Program Executive Director, the project be accepted as satisfactory for the award of the degree;
13.6.4 that the project does not meet the standard expected for the degree, but that the candidate be permitted to carry out additional work and re-submit the project for re-examination;
13.6.5 that the project be rejected and that the degree be not awarded.
13.7 A candidate may not re-submit a project in terms of sub-section 13.6.4 more than once.
13.8 The reports of the examiners shall be considered by the Panel. Where there is a disagreement in the summary decision of the examiners that cannot be resolved through negotiation an adjudicator may be appointed by the Panel. The adjudicator will be provided with the portfolio and the reports of the examiners with each examiner’s identity withheld.
13.9 The Panel shall determine whether the candidate has satisfied the requirements of the degree and, if so, recommend to the Academic Board that it be awarded. The award shall be conferred by the Council of the University.
14.1 Where a project is conducted in cooperation with or under the sponsorship of industry, or where the intellectual property may have commercial significance, the University requires that negotiations with respect to the ownership of any intellectual property arising from or associated with the project be formalised prior to approval of enrolment for the project.
14.2 In the event that details of any intellectual property or process improvement is contained within a project, and where the candidate does not seek to restrict public access to that project as pursuant to sub-section 12.6, the supervisor may seek to protect the interests of the University of the industry sponsor, or both, and apply through the Panel for such restriction to be approved.
14.3 In the event that a project contains sensitive or potentially patentable research results, the University shall ensure that examiners sign an appropriate confidentiality agreement prior to examining the project. The University shall take whatever other action is necessary to protect patentable material in a way which will not introduce undue delay in the awarding of the degree.
14.4 In all other cases, and consistent with University’s Intellectual Property and Moral Rights Policy (especially relating to patents, royalties and proprietary information which are still being formulated), the candidate shall normally hold copyright in any intellectual property associated with or arising from their studies.
15.1 A candidate who has reasonable grounds for dissatisfaction with any formal decision made with respect to the candidature, or with the examination and assessment of the project, may appeal in writing to the Appeals Committee of the Academic Board. An appeal must be lodged with the Vice-President and Registrar within one month of formal notification to the candidate of the decision being appealed.
SCHEDULE
| Code | Course |
|---|---|
| Transdisciplinary courses (six to be selected) | |
| EDED20411 | Creating Futures - 8 units |
| EDED20407 | Critical Foresight - 8 units |
| EDED20408 | Futuring - 8 units |
| EDED20412 | Market Positioning - 8 units |
| EDED20410 | Net Solutions - 8 units |
| EDED20409 | Working in the Information Society - 8 units |
| Project | |
| EDED20430 | Project A - 24 units |
| EDED22428 | Project B - 24 units |
CQU CRICOS Provider Codes: QLD - 00219C; NSW - 01315F; VIC - 01624D
This handbook was correct as at: 16-06-2003