GSE Coursework Student Handbook
Why a Handbook?
One of the most difficult aspects of being a student is getting accurate information on courses. Even when it is available, it is usually scattered in numerous documents published by the University (and not necessarily readily accessible) and in a vast number of Unit Outlines. In these, material is often duplicated, and frequently offers contradictory or conflicting instructions. One objective of this Handbook is to have all the information in one place.
A second objective is to standardise requirements across all Units as much as possible. This reduces confusion and conflict, and means that students can devote their time to learning rather than trying to cope with differences between administration of different Units.
Many of the Units described here will be offered in "flexible mode" or a combination of on-line and residential blocks.
The final objective is to help academic and support staff to help students. With one Handbook to replace a multitude of bits of paper, we anticipate fewer questions and less confusion.
What's in the Handbook?
The Handbook provides virtually all the information that you need to plan your coursework program in 2007.
Tables at the front provide timetables of semesters, recesses and breaks. A class timetable is available as well as a block mode unit dates. Descriptions then follow of what we expect of students enrolled in the Graduate School, and the educational objectives of the programs and units. Details of assessment follow before a section on advice on how to complete assignments at the postgraduate-level.
The Handbook ends with detailed Unit Outlines for each coursework Unit offered this semester.
What's NOT in the Handbook?
- Information about enrolment, transfer between programs, etc. is provided in other material.
- Rules, regulations, policies, etc. are included in the University Handbook of Postgraduate Studies (available as a printed book, or on the University web site at www.handbook.mq.edu.au). You are expected to be familiar with the University Handbook.
When to use the Handbook
Before phoning the Graduate School or the Unit Convenor, check this Handbook. You will most probably find the answer here.
When all else fails . . .
Read the Handbook. Read the Handbook again. Then, AND ONLY THEN, contact the Unit Convenor.
Who prepared the Handbook?
The Handbook is compiled and revised by Gunnella Murphy. Academics wrote their Unit Outlines to a common format, and revised the requirements to suit the standardised conditions in all Units.
Feedback for the Future
While we believe that we have included most of the information required, we would appreciate feedback on errors, omissions, suggestions.
Commitment
Completing a postgraduate certificate, diploma or masters degree is a very rewarding and enriching experience. However, it requires a commitment of time, energy and money. Without this commitment and the determination to strive for excellence, your time in the Graduate School can turn sour. Before enrolling, we ask all intending students to carefully examine their lives and determine if they are prepared to make the necessary commitment to their studies. If you are in any doubt, or if you are already heavily committed to domestic and work activities, postpone your enrolment.
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