Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Course

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Monash signifies that the holder has completed a course of postgraduate training in research under proper academic supervision and has submitted a thesis that the examiners have declared to be a significant contribution to knowledge and which demonstrates the candidate's capacity to carry out independent research.

On the recommendation of the head of the department concerned, a member of the University will be appointed to supervise the work of each candidate.

The Doctor of Philosophy aims to produce graduates who will:

• extend their knowledge, expertise and skill through the application of research to business problems and issues
• gain experience in the design and implementation of research
• develop the ability to carry out independent research at an advanced level, together with analytical and written communication skills
• make a significant contribution to knowledge.

100 per cent research. In certain instances an academic unit may require a student to undertake coursework if it is considered necessary to enable the student to carry out the proposed program of research.

A full-time candidate shall normally submit a thesis for examination not less than 24 months and not more than 48 months after admission to candidature for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. For part-time students, the minimum period of candidature is 48 months and the maximum period 96 months.

The conditions of enrolment in the PhD program are:

• students must maintain regular contact with their supervisors
• full-time students must be able to devote four full days per week to pursuing their PhD studies.
• part-time students must be able to devote two full days per week, or an acceptable alternative period, to pursuing their PhD studies. At least one of these days must be a weekday (Monday to Friday).
• students are required to attend graduate seminars organised by the department in which they are enrolled. They are expected to participate regularly in the seminar series and to give at least two seminars during the period of candidature.

In order to meet the requirements of the PhD, students must submit a thesis which generally does not exceed 100,000 words.

Doctor of Philosophy