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EDST8990 – Master of Research - Educational Studies

2020 – session 2, weekday attendance, north ryde.

As part of Phase 3 of our return to campus plan , most units will now run tutorials, seminars and other small group learning activities on campus for the second half-year, while keeping an online version available for those students unable to return or those who choose to continue their studies online.

To check the availability of face to face activities for your unit, please go to timetable viewer . To check detailed information on unit assessments visit your unit's iLearn space or consult your unit convenor.

General Information

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• ULO1: Extend candidates’ knowledge of research innovations in their discipline, and inthe sub-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary fields relevant to their research topic
• ULO2: Demonstrate ability to present and justify the need to study research problems and to present the practical ways in which the proposed study should be conducted
• ULO3: Develop an individual research project in the context of the latest research development in the field relevant to candidate's research topic.
• ULO4: Review the key theories and methods in the field of relevant to the research topic
• ULO5: Report key findings relevant to the research topic, the research questions and position your own research related to the topic.
• ULO6: Demonstrate effective scientific communication skills in both written and oral form

General Assessment Information

Research Proposal 

All MRes Year 2 candidates are required to submit a research proposal. A satisfactory result is required in order to confirm candidature. Candidates will work with their supervisor/s to produce a research proposal as described in this task.

All candidates are required to prepare a written research proposal (2,500-3000 words). The proposal may be submitted any time but by the due date. The School of Education requires you to deliver a 15- minute oral proposal presentation to the public. The MRes program director, in consultation with two assessors, will assess the written proposal and decide whether a student will be ‘confirmed’ to continue with their candidature or will be deemed  'confirmation pending’ and required to resubmit the research proposal.  (see the full task description in EDST899 iLearn site).

Research Frontiers 2 

The aim of RF2 is to extend candidates’ knowledge of research innovations in their discipline and in the sub-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary fields relevant to their research. This reflects the standards in the Australian Qualifications Framework (see:  www.aqf.edu.au ):  “Graduates of a Master’s Degree (Research) will have a body of knowledge that includes the understanding of recent developments in one or more disciplines.”

The RF2 report is assessed by a marking panel in each department and grades are further reviewed and moderated across the Faculty by the MRes Director using the criteria listed below. RF2 results will not be released to candidates ahead of the final weighted MRes outcome (including thesis result) and are not final until they are approved by the university-level Thesis and Examinations Sub-Committee (TESC) of the Research and Research Training Committee (RRTC).

MRes Thesis

Please follow the official guidelines for submitting your thesis to the correct locations by the due date.

In addition to submitting your thesis, your thesis should also be submitted to Turnitin via the EDST899 iLearn page. Please ensure that your submission to Turnitin is completed at least two days prior to your thesis due date to allow time to make changes if needed. Please note Turnitin can take more than a day to process and report on your thesis.

  PhD Proposal

The PhD proposal is submitted approximately one month after your MRes thesis submission and must be submitted in order to complete the requirements of your MRes program. The proposal will also be used to evaluate your application to continue to PhD studies if you wish to continue. You must upload this document to the Turnitin link below. This project proposal should reflect the integration of feedback and further development following the draft that appeared in your initial MRes proposal submission and the ongoing advice of your supervisor. Please follow the same task criteria as offered for your MRES proposal to develop your PhD proposal. For information about progressing to a PhD after your MRes please refer to your 2019 Project Guide and Appendix D.

Assessment Tasks

MRes Plan (Proposal)

Assessment Type 1 : Presentation Indicative Time on Task 2 : 75 hours Due: Within 3month from MRes year 2 starting date, Full time Weighting: 0%

15 minutes presentation and submission of the proposal (revised based on feedback received), 2500-3000 words

• Demonstrate ability to present and justify the need to study research problems and to present the practical ways in which the proposed study should be conducted
• Develop an individual research project in the context of the latest research development in the field relevant to candidate's research topic.

Research Frontiers 2

Assessment Type 1 : Essay Indicative Time on Task 2 : 100 hours Due: Two month before thesis submission, Full time Weighting: 10%

Critical examination of an issues at the frontier of the chosen research field, 3000-3500 words

• Extend candidates’ knowledge of research innovations in their discipline, and inthe sub-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary fields relevant to their research topic

MRes thesis

Assessment Type 1 : Thesis Indicative Time on Task 2 : 1000 hours Due: By the end of Year 2 Program Weighting: 90%

Significant individual research project of their own design

• Review the key theories and methods in the field of relevant to the research topic
• Report key findings relevant to the research topic, the research questions and position your own research related to the topic.
• Demonstrate effective scientific communication skills in both written and oral form

1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:

• the academic teaching staff in your unit for guidance in understanding or completing this type of assessment
• the Writing Centre for academic skills support.

2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation

Delivery and Resources

Thesis Preparation

Link to thesis preparation guidelines 

This is a link to the official University webpage for thesis preparation and submission guidelines. Please notify us immediately if you find the link has changed or is not available. 

Electronic Communication

It is the student's responsibility to check all electronic communication on a regular basis. Communication may occur via:

• Official MQ student email address

• The Dialogue function on iLearn

• Other iLearn communication functions

Access and technical assistance

This unit uses an iLearn web site. You may access this site from https://ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/in dex.php

An iLearn quick guide for students is available from https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/tool s-and-resources/ilearn/ilearn-quick-guides-for-students

For help with iLearn email [email protected]

Please do NOT contact the Unit Convenor regarding iLearn technical help. No extensions will be given for any technical issues. Allow enough time for your submissions.

Assistance is available from IT Helpdesk ph: 1800 67 4357, or log a request at help.mq.edu.au. OneHelp is the online IT support service for both students and staff.  

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central  ( https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central ). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

• Academic Appeals Policy
• Academic Integrity Policy
• Academic Progression Policy
• Assessment Policy
• Fitness to Practice Procedure
• Grade Appeal Policy
• Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
• Special Consideration Policy   ( Note: The Special Consideration Policy is effective from 4 December 2017 and replaces the Disruption to Studies Policy.)

Students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway  ( https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway ). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central  ( https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central ).

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct:  https://students.mq.edu.au/study/getting-started/student-conduct​

Results published on platform other than eStudent , (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent . For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact [email protected]

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit  http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills ( mq.edu.au/learningskills ) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to help you improve your marks and take control of your study.

• Getting help with your assignment
• Academic Integrity Module

The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources. 

• Subject and Research Guides
• Ask a Librarian

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service  who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

If you are a Global MBA student contact  [email protected]

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit  http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/ . 

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy . The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Changes to candidature

Change of circumstances.

We understand that your professional and personal circumstances may change as you progress with your research.

If your personal circumstances impact your research, you may need to change how you conduct your research. Below is a list of things you may need to do or take into consideration to stay on the right path.

Any variation requests that result in a change to EWS date may require the 2023 APR to be completed before final approval. Specific students' circumstance will be considered including current EWS date, past progress and the information detailed within the variation request.

Variation Provision Table

Below is a brief summary of the general provisions of an Master of Research (MRes) Yr 2, Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) students. It is not applicable to BPhil/MRes Year 1 coursework. Your actual provision will depend on your specific candidature arrangements.

Refer to the Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Variations to Candidature Policy and your Scholarship Conditions of Award [PDF 172KB] for detailed information.

Note these provisions are subject to approval and must be requested via the relevant form.

Taking leave

Leave is a period of non-enrolment in which your supervision, access to University facilities and scholarship payments, if applicable, are suspended.

Applications are reserved for exceptional circumstances beyond a student's control and must be supported by your Principal Supervisor and Head of Department. Such reasons include illness, maternity, or family responsibilities. You must provide documentation to support your leave application, such as a medical certificate.

Ensure that you read Part C of the   HDR Variations to Candidature Policy , which has detailed explanation regarding different types of leave entitlements for various circumstances that affect the standard period of candidature. Different programs have different entitlements.

If you are intending to apply for Internship Leave, please ensure that you have first contacted [email protected] for the necessary internship agreements to be completed.

To request for leave:

• Log in to  eStudent 
• Click in the Forms tile
• Search for the 'HDR Request for Leave' form
• Complete the form

International students must notify the Graduate Research Academy of any planned leave as soon as possible. The University is required by the Australian Government to inform the Department of Home Affairs of any changes to enrolment within 31 days.

Scholarship holders should check their  Conditions of Award [PDF 172KB] before applying for Leave.

Returning from leave

You will be automatically re-enrolled into your program when your leave ends, subject to any outstanding fees.

If you are planning on returning earlier from leave, please email [email protected] as soon as possible so that your record can be amended. If you need to extend your leave, then you will need to submit a new 'HDR Request for Leave’ eForm via your eStudent account as above.

If your scholarship was suspended during your leave period, and you are entitled for the stipend payments to continue on resumption of your studies, you will need to ensure that your bank details are up to date in eStudent . You will also need to ensure that you email [email protected] confirming that you are returning as planned. Failure to do so may result in delayed payment of your stipend.

For further information about leave entitlements, refer to the Variation Provision table in the first accordion above.

Requesting an extension

Students are expected to plan their research so they can meet their Expected Work Submission (EWS) date at the same time as other obligations they might have, both inside and outside the University. If you are unsure of your current EWS and consumed EFTSL, check your Research Summary in eStudent . The Research Summary can be found in the “My Overview” tile of eStudent . If you need help, watch this eStudent Tutorial .

Students can apply for extensions only in exceptional circumstances, where serious and unavoidable circumstances arise after enrolment that have affected their ability to commit fully to their studies.

Extension to EWS date may be requested only in the last 6 months of the candidature for PhD/MPhil or in the last 3 months of candidature for MRes Y2 students. To request an extension to your EWS:

• Search for the 'HDR - Request to Extend EWS Date' form

Exceptional circumstances include illness, misadventure and carer responsibilities. Note that approval of extension is not automatic. You will also be required to provide supporting documentation such as an updated Completion Plan, confirmation from a funding or cotutelle partner that the extension is approved and/or medical documentation (if applicable to your request).

There are no options to extend scholarships beyond the maximum period outlined in your offer letter*.

Ensure that you read Part D of the  HDR Variations to Candidature Policy , which outlines the period of time an extension can be granted for. Different programs have different entitlements.

Any requests for extension must be discussed with and supported by your supervisor before submitting the eForm.

After submission of the eForm, your request will go to your supervisor and Departmental Approver. You will receive an email notification confirming that your extension request has been completed and recorded in our Student Management System.

* Unless applied for and approved via the HDR COVID-19 Extension Scholarship Scheme

Application lodging deadline

You must lodge an application at least four (4) weeks before your current Expected Work Submission (EWS) date.

Extensions for international students

If you are an International student holding a student visa, and your extension is approved, the Graduate Research Academy (GRA) will issue you with an updated CoE to cover the extension period. With the change in the duration of study program,students may need to purchase additional OSHC and extend their student visa. Please contact the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.

Note that all International students who are approved an extension of EWS date in accordance with the HDR Variations to Candidature Policy will be charged a flat rate of AU$2000 for a 3 month extension as a write up fee (International Out of Time fee or “iOOT” fee). Further information and FAQs are available on the  HDR Fees webpage under the International tab.

Thesis not submitted / extension not approved

• Master of Research: If your thesis is submitted late, you will be penalised one percentage point from your final MRes thesis grade per calendar day until your thesis is submitted. Submission will be taken as the date your thesis is submitted electronically via the portal.
• MPhil/PhD: If you do not submit your thesis by your Expected Work Submission date, your enrolment will cease. On cessation of enrolment, you will immediately lose access to the library, information and communication technology (ICT) resources, faculty research facilities and supervisory support. Refer to Part F of the  HDR Variations to Candidature Policy.

Readmission

If you are approved for re-admission following withdrawal/discontinuance after having consumed your full EFTSL entitlement, a period of enrolment sufficient for satisfactory completion of the thesis and submission will be determined by the University and will not exceed 3 months (full time equivalent).

Re-admitted international students will be liable for the iOOT fee for the additional period of candidature.

Refer to Part H of the HDR Variations to Candidature Policy.

Changing supervisors

A supervisory panel can go through a variety of changes: you may be changing Principal supervisor as your research is evolving, or adding an associate or adjunct supervisor for additional expertise. All changes to your supervisory panel must be recorded centrally, so you must submit a Change of Supervisor eForm through eStudent .

Master of Philosophy (MPhil) / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Students are required to have a minimum of two supervisors appointed to their supervisory panel: the Principal Supervisor and Associate Supervisor.

Master of Research (MRes)

Students are required to have a minimum of two supervisors appointed to their supervisory panel: the MRes Supervisor and Associate MRes Supervisor.

Any changes to your supervisory panel should be discussed with and supported by your current supervisor before submitting the eForm .

Note that supervisors must meet the minimum standards for appointment to respective roles. Find more information on the HDR Supervision Policy .

After submission of the eForm, your request will go to your supervisor. You will receive an email notification confirming that the change of supervision has been completed and recorded in our Student Management System.

Changing programs or departments

Students can apply to transfer (upgrade) between Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) after a minimum of one year and a maximum of one and a half years (or part-time equivalent) following enrolment in the MPhil.

To request a transfer, students should complete and submit the Transfer Application form [PDF 108KB].

The closing date for receipt of transfer applications for the first enrolment period is 7 February and for the second enrolment period is 7 August. Transfer applications received after these dates will, if successful, take effect from the next enrolment period.

For further information, see the Higher Degree Research Transfer policy .

Changing thesis title and/or topic

If the direction and topic of your research have changed and you have a new thesis title, you must submit a Change of Thesis Title eForm through eStudent .

If you are a citizen of a sanctioned nation , your supervisor must complete an Autonomous Sanction Questionnaire (ASQ) to undertake a risk assessment to ensure your research does not breach any of Australia's international sanctions. Your supervisor will upload this to your eForm after you have submitted it.

Note: Iranian students holding Australian student visas (subclass 500) must obtain approval from the Department of Home Affairs if they are planning on changing their thesis or research topic. This is in accordance with visa conditions 8203 and 8204.

Any changes to your thesis title/topic should be discussed with and supported by your current supervisor before submitting the eForm.

If you are a Cotutelle/Joint Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Co-Funded student, ensure you notify your partner institution about the change in your thesis title/topic.

After submission of the eForm, your request will go to your supervisor. You will receive an email notification confirming that the change of title has been completed and recorded in our Student Management System.

Changing from full-time to part-time (or vice versa)

Students are enrolled full time unless otherwise approved, as defined in the GR Rules .

Students may apply to change from Full-time (FT) to Part-time (PT) at any point in candidature (or vice versa). However, in the final enrolment period the request to convert enrolment mode must be made prior to the census date of the enrolment period.

Conversion is permanent until the student re-applies to change enrolment mode.

To request a change of attendance:

• Log in to eStudent
• Search for the 'HDR - Request to Change Attendance'
• Complete the form.

After submission of the eForm, your request will go to your supervisor and Departmental Approver. You will receive an email notification confirming that your request has been completed and recorded in our Student Management System.

International students holding a student visa must be enrolled full time as per their visa conditions. Part Time enrolment will only be considered in compassionate or compelling circumstances.

As per the Conditions of Award, stipend holders are only permitted to continue to be paid a part-time award in exceptional circumstances.

Unit enrolment

Bphil/ mres y1 unit selection.

Bachelor of Philosophy (BPhil)/ Master of Research (MRes) Year 1 students must complete their unit enrolment via eStudent.

You should only enrol into  approved units, and when withdrawing from units ensure you speak with an advisor on how this will impact your Study Plan.

Before enrolling into your units

• Read the information on  Unit Information and Enrolment Patterns , and view the available units in  Macquarie’s Course Handbook (search for Bachelor of Philosophy and select your faculty).
• Complete a HDR Unit Selection for BPhil / MRes Form via your  eStudent to plan your unit selections, in consultation with your  MRes Advisor/Director . The Advisor/Director must approve your unit selection and you should only enrol into approved units to ensure your units form a coherent study plan.

To submit a HDR Unit Selection for BPhil/MRes Form:

• Log in to  eStudent
• Search for the ‘HDR Unit Selection for BPhil/MRes’

Note: Students from the  Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences must have their USF approved by their Faculty MRes Director. Students from all other Faculties should seek approval of their discipline’s MRes Advisor only.

Enrolling into you units

Once your HDR Unit Selection for BPhil/ MRes Form has been approved by your MRes Advisor/MRes Director, you will receive an email notification confirming that your request has been approved. You will then need to proceed to enrol into your units via  eStudent .

There are a series of tutorials available in eStudent on how to enrol:

• Managing Your Course Study Plan
• Enrolling Into Units
• Withdrawing From Units

Adding and changing units/advanced topic

• You must finalise your enrolment into units within two (2) weeks of the start of the  relevant session . No changes will be accepted after this date.
• If the change in unit falls into a higher, Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) contribution band, you will have to pay the difference in fees on the same day as enrolment into the new unit (unless you have chosen to defer your payment to HECS-HELP). If the new unit is in a lower HECS contribution band, you may seek a refund (or it will be adjusted for your deferred payment). Alternatively, the credit balance may be used to cover fees for the next session.

Withdrawing from a unit/advanced topic

• To withdraw without penalty, you must withdraw prior to the relevant session’s  Census Date . This is regarded as ‘Early Withdrawal’. You will not receive any academic or financial liability and no mark will be recorded against the unit on your official academic transcript.
• Students who withdraw from a unit after the unit  Census Date, but on or before the Last Withdrawal without Fail Date, will be regarded as 'Withdrawn' (W). No academic penalty is associated with a withdrawn status and this will not be included in the calculation of your Weighted Average Mark (WAM). You will remain financially liable for the unit.
• You are unable to withdraw after the Last Withdrawal without Fail Date. Your final result for the unit will be available on the result publication date.
• If you are seeking to withdrawal without financial or academic penalty, you must do so in accordance with the information on the  Withdraw without penalty page .

PhD HDRT/HDCC Unit Selection

PhD students who are enrolling in any additional HDRT/HDCC units must have approval for enrolment and such enrolment is processed by the  Graduate Research Academy (GRA). Once approved, any additional units can be added to the student’s program of study without additional fees (with some exceptions), provided such units are essential to the student’s research program.

Research students are permitted to enrol in only one additional four-credit-point coursework unit per semester. All enquiries concerning content, availability and timetabling of coursework units should be directed to the relevant  Department or Faculty of registration.

To make change/s to your program you are required to complete the HDR Unit Selection for PhD Students Form via  eStudent .

To submit a HDR Unit Selection for PhD Students Form:

• Search for the ‘HDR Unit Selection for PhD Students Form' form, and

Once the HDR Unit Selection for PhD Students Form has been approved, you will be manually enrolled into these units by GRA, and you will receive a notification when the enrolment is completed.

International students

As a student visa holder, you are required to complete your course within the time frame reflected on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). If you experience academic difficulties or situations which are considered to be compassionate or compelling, you may be eligible to reduce your study load. Contact  [email protected] for information.

Offsite research

Offsite enrolment is a mode of enrolment where the student lives permanently (greater than 6 months) outside reasonable commuting distance to the University’s Wallumattagal campus. Students and supervisors will have frequent contact via online or other digital means.

The University requires confirmation that the research being conducted offsite has all the required approvals (e.g. ethics or third party), including those that align to MQ's COVIDsafe plan. Note that approval to enrol on an offsite basis does not always mean automatic insurance cover for the student, as it will depend on the nature and duration of the research.

Students who wish to enrol on an offsite basis have to complete and submit a  Request for Offsite Enrolment form [PDF 294KB] and must not commence any research activities without written permission from the PVC Graduate Research.

Students on scholarship may have restrictions on the amount of time they can spend offsite and should check their conditions of award.

For further information about offsite research enrolment, see the  Offsite Research Enrolment Policy .

The following guidelines apply as a condition of all approved offsite enrolment:

• MQ Graduate Research courses are normally offered on campus, on a face to face basis, except in extraordinary circumstances where the situation of the student prevents attendance to campus, such as the closure of Australia’s national and state borders.
• Requests to enrol on an offsite basis are to be made in writing via this form, and require endorsement of the Supervisor, Department and Faculty.
• Requests to enrol on an offsite basis are subject to approval of the GRA and are not automatic.
• The research project must be designed such that the student can carry out their research and maintain progress towards timely completion of the degree, and if travel to Australia is not feasible, that completion of the program is viable offsite.
• All requests for offsite enrolment must be accompanied by a detailed timeline of activities for the period offsite requested.
• Where a student and supervisor have not met in person, the supervisor must confirm that at minimum a Skype/Zoom interview has taken place with the student.
• The student must provide a detailed description of their workspace, including access to internet, computer and other resources required for their research.
• A robust plan for communication must be documented and agreed to by the student and supervisory team. This is to include mode and frequency of communication that factors in any time zone differences, as well as a contingency plan should issues arise (i.e. if one party stops responding to messages or fails to meet appointments).
• Students who are approved to enrol offsite, must send certified and/or original copies of their personal and academic documentation (e.g. certified passport and testamur copy and original copies of academic transcripts) when requested, before the enrolment will be processed.
• Departments must, to the best of their ability, put structures in place to ensure the equivalent experience for offsite student as those attending campus, including (for example) online access to induction programs and seminars, workshops and graduate research communities.
• Students enrolling on an offsite basis as a result of COVID-19 and the closure of Australia’s borders are expected to relocate to Sydney to complete their program at the earliest opportunity available, and should apply for a student visa as soon as they are issued with a CoE, even if they are unable to travel.
• MQ will ensure that all normal processing of CoEs and documentation required for visa applications is provided in a timely manner to students.
• The GRA reserves the right to withhold stipend payments to scholarship recipients who are enrolling on an offsite basis until they arrive in Australia, in accordance with the Letter of Offer and appended Conditions of Award.
• Students who are approved to enrol on an offsite basis without a stipend (living allowance) must describe how they are going to meet their living costs while studying on a full-time basis. The GRA may recommend on a case by case basis that students enrol part-time.
• Students who are approved to commence their program offsite must submit a progress report quarterly, including the Annual Progress Report, in addition to the standard milestones (i.e. Protocol or Confirmation of Candidature).
• Both student and supervisory teams must commit to notifying the University (GRA) as soon as it becomes apparent that the circumstances of the student are no longer viable for research to continue in an offsite capacity.
• Offsite enrolment in this context applies to cotutelle or joint PhD students commencing their MQ period on an offsite basis (away from MQ campus).

COVID-19 research FAQS

Current research requirements and practices are detailed on the information for research staff page  and are updated regularly. This includes current approvals required for research off campus, in other countries, and face to face research involving Human Participants. Please note that all research involving at risk populations off campus requires approval from the COVIDSafe team.

International SOS

All students approved to work outside Australia should register with International SOS using Macquarie University’s provider code. iSOS provides access to intelligence and information services with up to date medical and security information in international locations. Advice including counselling support in local languages is also available.

IMPORTANT NOTE : Offsite Research Enrolment does not apply to students undertaking research related travel, fieldwork or collaboration activities away from campus for less than six (6) months. Approval of short term (less than six (6) months) research related activities away from the Wallumattagal campus should be approved via the relevant Faculty processes, with notification to the Graduate Research Academy.

Obtaining Permanent Residency

If your residency details have changed, you must show proof of your new residency to Macquarie University by the next relevant census date for the change to take effect. For any students making upfront payments to the University, you should try to show proof of this change earlier to have the correct fees printed on your Statement of Charges by the relevant payment due date.

To request for Change of Residency in accordance with the instructions:

• Search for the 'HDR- Request for Change of Residency Status' form

If you obtain Australian citizenship, please use the same eForm above and ensure that you submit a copy of your notarised citizenship certificate along with your eForm.

Withdrawing 

Withdrawal from candidature is a complete discontinuation of studies.

Before withdrawing you should first consult your principal supervisor and your department.

• Bachelor of Philosophy/Master of Research Y1 : For total withdrawal from BPhil program, complete a  Change of Units and Advanced Topics form [PDF 138KB], obtain your Department MRes Advisor’s approval and then submit the form to GRA via email to [email protected].
• Master of Research Y2, MPhil or PhD : If you still wish to proceed with withdrawal, you must complete the ‘HDR - Request to Withdraw’ eform via  eStudent . Failure to do so will result in your candidature continuing, thereby impacting tuition fees and any future enrolment tenure. Withdrawals cannot be backdated. Your withdrawal date will be the date you notified the University of your withdrawal by submitting the form.

International students must notify the Graduate Research Academy (GRA) of their withdrawal as soon as possible. The University is required by the Australian Government to inform the Department of Home Affairs of any changes to enrolment within seven (7) days.

Where a student has consumed their entire EFTSL allocation and withdraws, they may apply to be re-admitted for submission of their thesis within two years of withdrawal. Re-enrolling international students may be charged tuition fees. Refer to section 5.8 of the  HDR Variations to Candidature Policy .

International student information

The Graduate Research Academy (GRA) is required to report your changes in candidature to the Department of Home Affairs within 31 days. Before submitting a change request, you should review the terms and conditions for your visa, contact the Department of Home Affairs for advice and ensure that you comply with them and follow their advice.

For specific information about the impact of a change to candidature, refer to the relevant section above.

Applying for Visa Extension due to COVID-19

The Department of Home Affairs may waive your Student Visa Application fee if you held a student visa on or after 1 February 2020 and your visa extension is due to the impacts of COVID-19. Further information is available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

If you require Form 1545, please contact the Graduate Research Academy Candidature Team at [email protected] . Please note that Macquarie University can only provide you with Form 1545 if your approved Leave of Absence or Extension to EWS date was due to the impacts of COVID-19 and your eCoE end date is within 3 months of your current visa expiry date.

HDR COVID-19 Extension Scholarship Scheme (closed 31 Dec 2023)

The COVID-19 Extension scholarships scheme closed 12am (AEDST) 31 December 2023. Applications submitted after 31 December 2023 or with scholarship expiry dates after 30 June 2024, will not be accepted. All Graduate Research students remain eligible for standard EWS date extension provisions in accordance with the Graduate Research Changes to Candidature Policy.

The COVID-19 extension scholarship scheme is open to current PhD scholarship holders funded by Macquarie University, who have experienced extreme disruption to their research program as a direct result of COVID-19. Requests for an extension are not guaranteed and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by the PVC Graduate Research.

If approved, the scholarship will include a stipend and, where relevant, international tuition fees for a maximum of 3 months . You may apply for this scholarship when you are within the last 6 months of your scholarship tenure. Applications are open to students who enrolled prior to 01 July 2021, will be open until 31 December 2023.

• Search for the 'HDR - COVID-19 Extension Scholarship Scheme' form

You must be able to demonstrate extreme disruption by detailing: (1) the impact of COVID-19 on fieldwork, experimentation, and data collection; and (2) that mitigation strategies were considered but alternative work could not continue. This disruption must be documented in your APR and have the support of your supervisor. See below for examples of extreme disruption.

If you were exempt from the most recent Annual Progress Report then you may be asked to provide evidence you have documented the impact of COVID in an online COVID Impact Record (also completed as an eForm in eStudent).

If your EWS date and current scholarship expiry coincide and your application is approved, you will be granted a corresponding extension of EWS date, and do not need to complete and additional ‘Request to Extend EWS’ eform. After this, additional extensions of candidature will be considered in accordance with the HDR Variations to Candidature Policy and the 'Request to Extend EWS Date' eForm.

If you are unsure of your current EWS, consumed EFTSL and scholarship(s) end date, check your record in eStudent . The Research Summary can be found in the “My Overview” tile, and scholarship information can be found in the “My Details” tile. If you need help, watch this eStudent Tutorial .

Guidance Notes on Extreme Disruption Due to COVID-19

• A student has been unable to access critical research resources (such as museum or library collections, laboratories, access to research collaborators) and has been unable to modify research program to mitigate the impact of this disruption.
• A student carries out their research on vulnerable populations (such as the elderly, children or indigenous populations) and access to these populations has been severely limited as a result of the pandemic. These impacts are time sensitive and could not be mitigated through modifications to program timelines or online participation.
• A student’s research involves field work that must be carried out in a location that is directly impacted by national or international travel restrictions.
• A student may have been able to continue working on their research, but due to the pause of face to face research or restricted access to campus/resources the research direction had to be adjusted to the extent that it is clear the student could no longer complete within the original timeframe.
• The personal or health impact of COVID-19 has resulted in a level of disruption that cannot be accommodated fully through existing variation mechanisms, such as paid carers leave, paid sick leave etc. This might include impacts on emotional or physical health and well being.
• A student was unable to work effectively during the lockdown, as a result of significant restrictions in their living accommodation. This might include limited access to the internet, absence of suitable technology or unsuitable working space. A student would have to show how such disruptions went beyond the typical challenges associated with working in a home rather than an office environment.

All information provided by students will be treated confidentially. Where requests are based on health reasons, students are not required to disclose personal details of their health. However, medical certificates should indicate the impact on the student’s ability to carry out their research for the period specified.

Interim Progress Reports

The GRA has introduced an interim progress report tool for students and supervisors. Interim progress reports are a formal, but short report on a student’s progress over the last enrolment period (usually 3 months) and an updated plan for the following three months. Interim progress reports are not a standard requirement, but may be mandatory in the following circumstances:

• Students who have been approved to enrol on an offsite basis (away from MQ Campus) due to travel restrictions as a result of COVID-19 must complete an Interim Progress Report every three months from their enrolment date, as a condition of their continued enrolment in the program, in addition to the standard progress milestones required in your Faculty.
• Students who have been approved to recommence their research on an offsite basis (away from MQ Campus) due to the impact of COVID-19 must complete an Interim Progress Report every three months from the commencement of their offsite research period.
• Students who have been recommended for Department or Faculty Review may be asked to complete an Interim Progress Report as part of an intervention strategy to allow the student and supervisory panel to closely monitor progress.

To complete:

• Complete an ‘Interim Progress Report’ eform.
• Graduate Research Academy
• Level 2, 16 Wally's Walk
• Macquarie University NSW 2109
• T: +61 (2) 9850 4741
• E: [email protected]

Related links

• Wellbeing support
• Financial support
• Progression and support
• Conditions of award
• Variations to Candidature Policy

• Macquarie University Library
• Subject and Research Guides

Theses Finding

• Find Macquarie University Theses
• Find Australian Theses
• Find International Theses

A thesis (plural = theses) or dissertation is a document submitted in support of candidature for a degree or professional qualification presenting the author's research and findings. In some universities, the word thesis is applied to a bachelors or masters course, while dissertation is normally applied to a doctorate.

This guide will help you to find Macquarie University theses and other Australian and International theses.

You may find looking at theses helpful

• to discover what has already been written on a topic
• to help you identify research gaps
• to look at theses formats and research methodologies used
• to help you to refine your research topic

Theses Databases

• Ebsco Open Dissertations
• ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global

• Trove This link opens in a new window Search TROVE to find theses and dissertations from Australian universities.
• Australian theses - How to find original Australian research in Trove

• Ebsco Open Dissertations This link opens in a new window An open-access database (incorporating American Doctoral Dissertations) built to assist researchers in locating both historic and contemporary dissertations and theses.

• ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global This link opens in a new window Find citations and the full-text of dissertations and theses from around the world from 1861 to the present.

Accessing theses from other Libraries

To access theses that are not held at Macquarie and are not available online, contact the Library's interlibrary loan service for assistance. You may be able to borrow the thesis from another academic library.

The interlibrary loan service is available to Macquarie staff and postgraduate students.

• Interlibrary loans

Theses Quick Links

Access digital and print versions of theses

• Macquarie University Theses Open access repository of digital theses submitted at MQ
• Theses @ Macquarie University Guide Guide to the thesis submission process at Macquarie University
• Next: Find Macquarie University Theses >>
• Last Updated: Dec 5, 2023 2:23 PM
• URL: https://libguides.mq.edu.au/theses-finding