Frequently asked questions
What is the MRGS?
The Monash Research Graduate School (MRGS) is a central administrative body of the university that oversees doctoral and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) candidature. The MRGS also provides a range of services to research postgraduates, including:
- scholarships;
- seminars and workshops, as part of the exPERT Program; and
- a range of grants including Postgraduate Travel Grants, Postgraduate Conference Organisers' Grants, and Postgraduate Publication Awards.
The MRGS also administers the following:
What is the Research Office?
The Research Office (formerly known as the Research Grants and Ethics Branch (RGEB)) is a central administrative body of the university situated at Clayton campus that oversees ethics approval and research grants.
What does the Victorian College of Pharmacy Research office do for research postgraduates?
Among its responsibilities the Faculty Research office approves admission to all research postgraduate courses within the faculty and handles variations to candidature for masters candidates. The Faculty Research Office staff are also available to assist with information and advice on all candidature matters from admission to graduation, scholarships and other funding opportunities.
What deadlines do I need to meet in my first year?
Do I need to re-enrol each year?
Yes, or you will lose your student privileges including library and Internet access. The Research Programs Manager will forward reenrolment forms to Master of Pharmaceutical Science candidates each year (normally in September or October) while the MRGS will send reenrolment information to PhD candidates in October.
How long do I have to complete?
- PhD candidates - The maximum period of candidature is four (4) years of full-time or its equivalent in part-time candidature up to a maximum of eight (8) years of part-time study. However, the normal length of candidature is considered to be three (3) years full-time (six (6) years part-time). It is strongly recommended that candidates design a project that can be completed within three (3) years of the commencement of candidature.
- Master of Pharmaceutical Science candidates - The masters is normally undertaken over a period of 18 months (or 36 months part-time) with a maximum of two (2) years full-time candidature allowed (or four (4) years part-time). Part-time candidature is not available to international candidates.
What is confirmation of candidature?
All PhD candidates are required by the MRGS to present their work in progress to a review panel and submit a confirmation of candidature report at the end of their probationary period. This process is expected to take place within the first 12 months of candidature. Further information is given in chapter 3 of the Doctoral Information Handbook for Research Candidates and their Supervisors.
What are my obligations as a postgraduate research candidate?
Students should ensure that they meet all their candidature requirements. All staff and students are required to follow Occupational Health Safety and Environment requirements. It is important to consult with your supervisor as your department may have other requirements that you will need to follow.
What are the obligations of my supervisor (and the university)?
These are outlined in the section ‘Research supervision’.
How do I deal with any other issues or problems that may arise during my candidature?
In the first instance you discuss any problems with your supervisor. You may then wish to contact the following persons:
- Head of your department
- Postgraduate coordinator of your department
- Associate Dean (Graduate Studies)
- Postgraduate Committee representative
Contact details are given below in this document.
Can I apply for research grant funding?
Yes, if you meet the criteria – see the section ‘Research grant opportunities’.
What if I am sick?
You are eligible to take sick leave – see the sections ‘Variations to candidature’.
Do I get holidays?
Yes, you are eligible to take 20 days recreational leave each year.
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