The principal component of the Honours course involves a research project conducted under supervision of a research scientist. In addition, students are expected to  write a Grant Proposal on the research topic, a progress report, present seminars on their research work and attend various workshops and Divisional seminars. The major item of assessment is the thesis. The Honours course runs from early February mid July. 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 Convener 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 (85%). (LO 1-6 )

Grant Proposal 15%

Seminars CRS

Determined by individual research project and course load.