Chapter 2: Admission to doctoral candidature

2.9 Concurrent enrolment

It should be noted that only in the most exceptional circumstances will the Graduate Research Committee (GRC) permit candidates to enrol for any other degree or diploma during their period of doctoral candidature. Special circumstances may be considered, for example where a candidate who is making exceptional progress in the closing stages of the research program wishes to commence a specialist professional qualification such as a teaching diploma, or where a case can be made for the provision of complementary training in the prospective studies.

A detailed case supporting the request must be made to the Graduate Research Steering Committee through the Monash University Institute of Graduate Research Office. The request must have the unequivocal support of the candidate’s supervisors and the head of the department. Wherever possible, the case for concurrent enrolment should be made prior to enrolment as a research candidate.

The candidate would be expected to provide evidence of a level of academic achievement that indicates that the studies to be undertaken will not adversely impact on the progress of the research degree. The hours to be devoted to study are to be included within the time allowance made for paid employment by candidates. In some instances, this may preclude the candidate undertaking paid employment while a concurrent enrolment arrangement is in place.

The main supervisor and head of the department (or nominee) are responsible for ensuring that the concurrent enrolment does not impact adversely on the candidate's progress in the research degree. The impact will be monitored through regular contact with the candidate and through the candidate's participation in the milestones (where applicable). If progress is not satisfactory, the approval for concurrent enrolment may be withdrawn.

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