Responsibilities of the Supervisor

Members of the supervisory panel will seek to impart knowledge of research methods to the candidates under their supervision and guide them in acquiring research experience.

The test of the success of that training is assessed through the thesis or major work which, in the case of a PhD, is expected to provide clear evidence of originality and thereby make some significant contribution to knowledge. At least some of this work should be of a level suitable for publication in a recognised journal of the field.

A Masters (Honours) thesis should demonstrate the candidate's competence in research methodology and its critical application in the chosen field of study.

Time

An important part of research training is the completion of a project within a particular time frame. In this regard, a critical early phase is when the supervisory panel assists the candidate in drawing up a research proposal. UWS has introduced "Early Candidature Plan" and a formal "Thesis Proposal" in the first year of candidature to assist this process. The Principal Supervisor must pay particular attention to the likely time scale of the project, bearing in mind that a three-year PhD candidature should be an objective. The Principal Supervisor should ensure that the candidate is aware of the standards expected of the degree concerned, and identify with the candidate the particular research skills that will need to be agreed indicators of progress being made. It will take note of known periods of leave. The Principal Supervisor should ensure that sufficient time is left for writing up the thesis.

Three years full time is the normal time for completion of a doctorate. Students should always plan to complete within three years. Additional time is “wriggle room” if there are any problems that slow down progress beyond the originally planned three year completion. For the range of time to complete the degree, see table below. The University counts time in enrolment load (EFTSL - equivalent full-time study load) and this is determined by your enrolment pattern. This method of counting enrolment takes into account periods of full and part-time enrolment and periods of leave. The EFTSL clock stops during periods of leave. Load (EFTSL) is accrued at 0.25 per part-time session and 0.50 per full-time session.

Completion Times


 EFTSL
 Full-time Years
 Full-time Sessions Part-time Years
 Part-time Sessions
M (Hons)
Min
 1
 1
 2
 2
 4
Max
 2
 2
 4
 4
 8
PhD, Prof Doc
Min
 3
 3
 6
 6
 12
Max
 4
 4
 8
 8
 16

Responsibilities

The responsibility of the supervisory panel over the initial phase of candidature extends to (i) ensuring access to resources, as specified in UWS and School policies; (ii) encouraging the candidate to participate in the research culture within UWS; and (iii) ensuring that commitments made in respect of availability and contact are met by the candidate and the supervisory panel. The supervisory panel has a responsibility to provide timely feedback to the candidate on progress.

Monitoring Progress

See Early Candidature Plan, Annual Reports and Confirmation of Candidature.

As the candidature progresses, different contact arrangements may be appropriate, but the candidate and members of the supervisory panel must be clear on what they expect of the others. The panel Principal Supervisor and the candidate should monitor progress made within the context of the overall research plan. When the time comes for writing the thesis, supervisors should be ready to advise on the requirements on style etc., and should give prompt feedback on drafts submitted.

Administrative Requirements

The Principal Supervisor should know where to find out the various degree and other administrative requirements and advise the candidate as necessary. He or she should ensure that the candidate seeks necessary approvals for absences from the University, and that the candidate receives any due entitlement within the School.

Appointment of Examiners, Examination Submission, Examiners Reports

See Examinations.

Publications

UWS research is focused on well-articulated, high-impact research solutions under the leadership of visionary and productive researchers.

UWS has three major mechanisms for expressing its research strengths: major multidisciplinary University wide research programs support the University Mission with national and local relevance; a small number of research institutes; and a development program for emerging research strengths.

Through these, collaborative research partnerships are also undertaken within the University and with community or industry partners. Future generations of researchers are developed through strong research training programs for postdoctoral fellows, research degree students, and early career researchers.

The University wide multidisciplinary Water Research Program was established in 2002 and focuses the diverse expertise UWS has in the area of water research. The program positions UWS to make an important contribution to make to its region’s strategic research around water, a contribution emphasised in both the current national drought and policy development context.

The University of Western Sydney has research concentrations in the following discipline areas:

  • Applied Science and Technology
  • Cultural Research
  • Innovation Studies
  • Biological Sciences
  • Information, Computer and Communication Technology
  • Construction Engineering
  • Psychology
  • Management
  • Sociology and Justice Studies

Should you require further information, please contact the Office of Research Services.

Problems

Difficulties of one sort or another may arise during candidatures, and candidates and members of the supervisory panel should be aware of the problem solving mechanisms and the support services which exist within the University, and to ensure that the School or Research Institute HDR Director (or equivalent) is kept informed as necessary.

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