Online Courses Handbook 2003

190203 v.5 Master of Social Science

Introduction
This research course is designed for those intending to complete an extended piece of original research under the supervision of a staff member with interest and expertise in the subject area of research.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites
A Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) or postgraduate diploma in a social science discipline from a recognised Australian tertiary institution. Prospective students are expected to have the equivalent of first or upper second class honours.

Duration and Availability
The course is by research and normally requires one to two years full-time or equivalent part-time study. This course is only offered where adequate supervision can be provided within the School of Social Sciences. In exceptional circumstances it may be possible to arrange joint supervision with academic staff outside the School. Prospective students are advised to consult the Deputy Head, Graduate Studies, School of Social Sciences, to ensure that supervision is available in the area of their research proposal. The course is available to both full-time and part-time students.

Course Organisation
This course is studied as a research degree. The content of the degree should be determined in consultation with the Deputy Head, Graduate Studies, School of Social Sciences. Students without prior studies in research methods and statistical data analysis will be required to undertake relevant preparatory units. This will increase the stated course duration.

Additional Course Expenses
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study.

Special Note
Students who commenced prior to and who are continuing in this course from 2001 have the choice to graduate with either a Master of Arts (Social Sciences) or Master of Social Science award subject to approval by the Head of School. It is a requirement that two-thirds of this course is undertaken by research and only one-third by coursework. Students should not enrol in this research degree to receive a related Postgraduate Diploma but rather have undertaken it as a requisite for admission.

Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit

Majors, Streams or Other Core Components

99063 v.3 Masters Thesis - Social Sciences