Candidate'sGuide - What Constitutes a Research Higher Degree

The University of Newcastle offers Master and Doctoral degrees by way of a program, the major component of which is a research project carried through to conclusion. The University also awards several Higher Doctoral Degrees whose award is based on the research output of the applicant over a substantial number of years.

The research masters and doctoral degrees have two intents. One is to prepare a substantial piece of work which represents a significant contribution to the particular field of study, while the other is to train candidates in the general area of research methodology, equipping them with skills which will serve them in any field of research. The difference between a Master degree and a Doctoral degree is explained in the definitions below:

The Doctor of Philosophy is an ungraded degree awarded for research that demonstrates that the candidate has the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality. The research should uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas.

The degree of Master by research is an ungraded degree awarded for research that demonstrates that the candidate has a thorough understanding of the relevant techniques in the field demonstrated both by their application and a thorough review of the literature; has managed to demonstrate competence in the chosen field through judicious selection and application of methods to yield fruitful results; has the capacity to evaluate these results critically; and has the capacity to present well written work.

A research degree program is a demanding undertaking that will take a number of years to complete. It is likely to involve extended hours to absorb and digest vast amounts of existing information, to develop new data or ideas and, with the assistance of your supervisor, to distil these into a well-structured and clearly written research thesis. There are also likely to be new opportunities for interaction with other researchers and people who are established in their professions.

You will receive careful direction from your supervisor but you must be able to juggle the constant need to push forward your research program with the competing and valid demands of family, friends, hobbies and relaxation. Time management skills become very important.

Why should you embark on such a program? It is a unique opportunity to learn new skills, develop problem-solving abilities and make a demonstrable contribution to new knowledge. It is the recognised qualification for a career in academia and will also open doors to new career paths in the public and private sectors. As a successful Master or Doctoral graduate, you will have overcome the obstacles, persevered with the research, mastered new skills and convinced a group of your peers that the contribution to knowledge submitted as your thesis is worthy of the award of a higher degree. The end result is an overwhelming feeling of great accomplishment.

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