Structured Program

Each student commencing a PhD must complete a Structured Program (SP) of activities. The Structured Program comprises a Core Component (to be completed within a maximum of six months or part time equivalent) and a Development Component comprising skills training and professional development as negotiated with (or deemed advisable by) the supervisor or Postgraduate Coordinator. The Development Component may extend for the duration of candidature. Satisfactory completion of the Core Component is a prerequisite for re-enrolment and for confirmation of candidature.

General information about the Structured Program in the School of Molecular and Biomedical Science is given below. Each discipline has developed a Structured Program that meets their unique requirements, and for details of the current Structured Program requirements for each discipline, go here. More information about the Structured Program and the forms can be obtained from the university website as a printable document .

The Core Component has been designed to introduce new research students to the School and help students develop effective research projects. The core component of the Structured Program includes:

o participation in the University and School induction sessions for postgraduates;
o completion of the Minimum Discipline Resources Proforma;
o regular attendance at the School and Discipline Seminar Program;
o identification of a research project with their supervisor(s);
o satisfactory completion of a written research proposal for their project;
o a seminar presentation

For details of requirements for each discipline, see here. International students are required to complete appropriate components of the Integrated Bridging Program (IBP) as part of the Core component of the Structured Program.

The Development Component is designed to identify and address any weaknesses in a candidate's academic background that might otherwise hamper the successful completion of their research project and submission of their thesis. This is particularly intended to assist candidates who have not completed an Honours degree, or whose primary degree lacks elements needed for successful completion of the proposed research program. The supervisor and postgraduate coordinator will decide at the time of enrolment if a student is required to complete the development component. If so, in consultation with the student, they will design a program that will provide the student with the opportunity to obtain an appropriate background for the project. The School teaches relevant undergraduate Science and Honours courses and students may be required to enrol in, or otherwise formally audit, one or more of these courses.