The principal component of the 10 months Honours course involves a research project conducted under supervision of a research scientist. In addition, students are expected to attend various workshops and seminars, write a research proposal, a progress report and present seminars on their research work. The major item of assessment is the thesis. The Honours course runs from early February to early November or from mid July to mid May. In addition to meeting the entry requirements defined by the College, students must have the agreement of a member of the academic staff to supervise their project, and the agreement of the convener. Academic staff from the Research School of Biology, John Curtin School of Medical Research, CSIRO and Canberra Hospital may be supervisors or co-supervisors. Students should discuss their intention to undertake an Honours project with appropriate staff and the Honours project coordinator at least several months before the proposed starting date. Note that several organisations award honours scholarships in September-December for the following year.

Specific learning outcomes will depend on the nature of the research project. In general, on satisfactory completion of the course students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. plan, and engage in, an independent and sustained critical investigation and evaluation of a chosen research topic
2. systematically identify relevant theory and concepts, relate these to appropriate methodologies and evidence, and draw appropriate conclusions
3. engage in critical review of appropriate and relevant information sources
4.record original data and apply statistical or other evaluation processes to original data when appropriate
5. communicate concepts and results clearly and effectively both in writing and orally
6. understand and apply relevant laboratory techniques and methods

A major component of the assessment is the Honours thesis on the research project which is marked by designated examiners (LO1-6).

Other assessment may also include:

• Research proposal with literature review on topic of Honours project (LO1-5)

• Introductory seminar presenting background and methods (LO 1-3, 5)

• Final seminar presenting results, interpretation and significance of project (LO 1-6)

• Seminar Log Book

• Journal Club

• Completion of required technical and OH&S courses at start of course (LO4) 

Determined by individual research project and course load.