New HDR candidate information

This page contains all of the information that you need to get started at Victoria University (VU) as a higher degree research (HDR) candidate.

Follow through each of the steps on this page and you'll be off to a flying start!

Coursework timetable information

Please select your enrolled degree to view the research period 1, 2024 timetable.

All coursework units are delivered in-person at Footscray Park Campus for research period 1, 2024.

Step 1: Access student tools & IT services

Start your orientation by setting up access to your IT services, VU email account, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and physical spaces.

Step 2: Complete HDR research integrity modules

 Before you commence your program, you must undertake two or three self-paced online modules. The modules must be completed before you present for Confirmation of Candidature. You can refer back to them throughout the course of your research degree.

If you have any queries regarding your access to the VU Collaborate space, please contact [email protected] .

Step 3: Inductions & orientation

All research degrees at Victoria University have compulsory coursework units. Your coursework timetables and information will be emailed to you, once your enrolment has been confirmed.

Masters (Research) & PhD (Integrated) inductions

In addition to the HDR Orientation, all Masters (Research) and PhD integrated students must attend a program induction session. The session will introduce the coursework units as well as provide useful information to help you start your research journey.

Inductions 2024

In Research Period 1 2024, compulsory induction dates are:

  • Masters (by research): Wednesday 14 February, 3–5pm
  • PhD Integrated: Monday 12 February, 3–5pm

HDR orientation

All newly enrolling graduate researchers must attend a compulsory orientation event hosted by Graduate Research School. The next graduate researcher orientation will be held on Friday 8 March 2024 at 10am.

The graduate researcher orientation is an opportunity for you to meet key research and support staff, find out essential information to start your research journey, and meet some of your fellow candidates. The program includes:

  • an overview of the VU approach to research degrees
  • developing an understanding of candidature milestones
  • the support services available to graduate researchers
  • an overview of the core coursework
  • getting the most out of your supervision team
  • researcher professional development at VU.

Register for orientation

Step 4: Candidature milestones

Milestones are points during your degree when your progress is reviewed.

Your confirmation of candidature oral presentation is due after you complete the coursework units. You are a provisional candidate in the HDR program until your confirmation of candidature is approved.

Your presentation can take place on any date and time. To schedule your presentation, please liaise with your supervisor/s to choose a date and time. They will need to secure an Academic Review Panel (ARP) no later than four (4) weeks prior to your presentation date.

To schedule your presentation, please contact [email protected] .

Presentations are held online via Zoom, but if you want to use campus meeting room facilities, your supervisor will need to book a suitable room.

View the guidelines, application forms and other required documents to prepare for your candidature presentation and read the principles for respectful supervisory relationships (PDF, 194.59 KB).