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Honours Degree in the Bachelor of Education

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose a supervisor?

As part of your induction into the Honours program, you will be provided with information about potential supervisors. In selecting a supervisor you should consider relevance to the topic that you wish to research as well as choosing a supervisor with whom you will be able to develop a productive working relationship.

The Faculty of Education Research groups page provides information generally about areas of research strength as well as information about individual lecturers and their area of specialisation. We encourage you to browse these pages and to talk with potential supervisors about their availability.

There may also be opportunities available to join existing projects within the Faculty. Also, talk with individual lecturers about possible opportunities.

How do I know what topic to choose for a thesis?

You are not expected to enter your Honours study with a fully conceptualised question for research! However, you should have some idea of the area of focus you wish to investigate through your research. Identifying a topic and a particular research question is a process that evolves after you begin your studies. One way to help you think about possibilities is to look at the current research within the Faculty's Research groups.

Where should I go for advice during my Honours candidature?

Initially you would discuss matters with your supervisor directly. If your supervisor cannot help you, seek advice from the Honours Coordinators or the Administrative Officer.

Can I make changes to my Honours units?

All students are required to complete a research methodology unit (12 points) and a research interest unit (12 points), which students will decide with their supervisors. Students can change units on-line through WES.

Any unit changes should be discussed with the supervisor and/or the Honours Coordinator.

The dates for discontinuing a unit in Honours are the same as for all undergraduate students. Refer to your Student Diary or check with the Honours Administrator. These dates are most important. If you fail to make your changes on time normal penalties apply.

Is it possible to transfer from full-time to part-time Honours?

A full-time student may apply to transfer to part-time study. Students are advised to discuss any changes to enrolment with their supervisor and/or Honours Coordinator. Students who transfer to part-time may do so by discontinuing a unit or units. Requests must be made on the appropriate university form available from the Administrator.

Can I discontinue my thesis?

Students may discontinue their thesis through applying for intermission or Withdrawal in Good Standing. Students wishing to discontinue their thesis should discuss the matter with their supervisor and/or Honours Coordinator. Intermission is only possible within the usual coursework intermission deadlines.

Students may apply for intermission for a coursework unit (which includes thesis units). A withdrawal means you are leaving the course. Requests are made on the relevant forms, available from the Administrator.

What if I want to take an Intermission?

Students wishing to intermit their thesis should discuss the matter with their supervisor in the first instance. Intermission is only possible within the usual coursework intermission deadlines. Students may apply for intermission for a coursework unit (which includes thesis units). Requests are made on the Course work intermission form (pdf 59Kb), also available from the Administrator.

What happens if I fail a coursework unit?

If you fail a coursework unit, you will be required to repeat the unit or a suitable substitute.

What happens if I fail the thesis component?

If you fail the thesis component you will be deemed to have failed the entire program and will be ineligible to take out the Honours degree.

Is it possible to withdraw and return at a later stage if my circumstances change?

Approval to Withdraw in Good Standing may be granted in circumstances where Intermission is not appropriate and the student requires an extended period of leave from their studies.

I want to do Honours - how do I apply?

Intending Honours candidates should complete an application form which can be obtained from the Faculty Office. You need to complete the form in consultation with the Honours Coordinator or nominated representative who will sign your application.