Program Structure

The final structure and content of the program will be developed after discussion with each student. Appraisal of their background, previous knowledge and future intentions are to be proposed and approved by the Head of School. The Master degree program in Environment, Forestry, Geographical Sciences, consists of a total of 48 units. In full-time mode, coursework and research are normally taken over two consecutive semesters. The research component comprises either 18 or 30 units. All students must attend relevant seminars and present at least one seminar and comply with any other prescribed conditions.

The program may be completed in one of the following two ways:

(a)  The Master of Geographical Science with major research essay option (25%) consisting of a total of 48 units, and comprising:

• Research Methods course (6 units); in some cases this course may have a ENVS prefix, (e.g. Independent Research Project ENVS8049);
• Major Research Essay (with a ENVS prefix and worth a total of 12 units) - maximum length 15,000 words, on an agreed topic; the work must show wide reading and understanding as well as evidence of critical analysis and/or appropriate use of advanced techniques.

At least 30 units must have a ENVS prefix with content relevant to Geographical Sciences, OR,

(b)  The Master of Geographical Science with sub-thesis option (50%) consisting of a total of 48 units, and comprising:

• Research Methods course (6 units); in some cases this course may have a ENVS prefix (e.g. Independent Research Project ENVS8049);
• Sub-thesis (with a ENVS prefix and worth a total of 24 units) - length 20,000-25,000 words on an agreed topic; the work must show wide reading and understanding as well as evidence of critical analysis and/or appropriate use of advanced techniques, at a higher level of development than the Major Research Essay.

At least 30 units must have a ENVS prefix with content relevant to Geographical Sciences.

Admission to the 50% thesis option requires evidence of Distinction-level performance in 2 courses, or equivalent, relevant to the proposed field of research. The choice of research topic under either option is dependent on the availability and agreement of a supervisor. These issues should be the subject of discussion with the Graduate Studies Advisor at an early stage. All students must attend relevant seminars and present at least one seminar and comply with any other prescribed conditions.

Supervision

The choice of research topic under either option is dependent on the availability and agreement of a supervisor. This should be discussed with the Graduate Advisor at an early stage. Each student is to be guided by an appropriate member of the academic staff in the conduct of the research components, and in selecting suitable coursework courses. The Head of School and the Graduate Advisor, in cooperation with the supervisor, will prepare a program of study for each candidate.

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.