Monitoring Academic Progress

Duration of candidature

Candidates are reminded that the maximum period of candidature is four years FTE for a PhD and two years FTE for a Masters by research degree. This must be taken into account in planning your research project and candidates should not expect extensions of candidature to be granted except under the most exceptional circumstances. Candidates should aim to complete the entire research, writing up and examination process within candidature.

Candidature Milestones

Candidature milestones, hereafter referred to as 'milestones', are specific points during your degree program at which you will be required to complete a task. Through the process of completing the various milestones, you, your School and the University will be able to monitor your progress and ensure that your research is proceeding at a rate that will enable you to complete your research program within the time allocated for the degree.

Timeframes for Completion of the Required Candidature Milestones

The diagram on the previous page summarises the timeframes for completion of candidature milestones for full time students commencing in 2009. Further information about what each milestone involves is provided later in this Guide.

Half-time Students

If you are a half time student, please double the indicated timeframes for the core component and major review of progress and the submission and completion timeframes. All other due dates remain unchanged.

Remote Students

For simplicity, the minor review of progress milestone, which remote students are required to complete on the 15th April each year following confirmation, has not been shown on the diagram on the previous page.