Section 15 Postgraduate Research Degree Regulations

Transcription

1 Section 15 Postgraduate Research Degree Regulations Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 1 of 31

2 Table of Contents Page 1. Purpose 3 2. Scope 3 3. Background 3 4. Award Standards 5 5. Governance 7 6. QQI Processes 8 7. Supervision Admission and Registration Student Ongoing Monitoring and Transfer Between Registers Duration Of Research Study Programmes Thesis Format Examiners Examination Process 22 Appendix 15.1 IUQB s Irish Universities PhD Graduate Skills Statement 27 Appendix 15.2 LYIT Postgraduate Research Forms 29 References 31 Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 2 of 31

3 1. PURPOSE 1.1 The purpose of these regulations provide research students with sufficient information to enable them to begin their studies with an understanding of the academic environment in which they will be working. set out the important roles of Institute bodies and key postholders in the delivery of high quality research programmes comply with QQI standards and is in line with QQI policy on programme validation and research programme takes cognisance of the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) 2. SCOPE 2.1 The document refers to all aspects of provision of postgraduate research programmes. 2.2 These regulations apply to specific disciple- areas where the Institute has Research Approval from QQI (formerly HETAC) to deliver research degree programmes. 2.3 These procedures do not address Professional Doctoral programmes or Structured PhD programmes. 3. BACKGROUND 3.1 Legislative Framework Regional Technical Colleges Acts The Institutes of Technology are governed by the Regional Technical Colleges Act 1992, the Regional Technical Colleges (Amendment) Act 1994 and the Regional Technical Colleges (Amendment) Act The 1992 Act established the colleges, set out their functions, established the Governing Bodies and Academic Councils of the colleges. By Ministerial Order entitled the Regional Technical Colleges Act 1992 (Change of Name of College) Order 1998 the names of the colleges were changed to Institutes of Technology with effect from 28 January Qualifications (Education And Training) Act, 1999 The Qualifications (Education and Training) Act, 1999 came into force in June The main objects of the Act are to: establish and develop standards of knowledge, skill or competence; promote the quality of further education and training and higher education and training; provide a system for co-ordinating and comparing education and training awards; and promote and maintain procedures for access, transfer and progression. This Act established three bodies, the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI), the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC) and the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC). The NQAI was given three principal objectives which were set out in the Act: the establishment and maintenance of a framework of qualifications; the establishment and promotion of the maintenance of the standards of awards of the further and higher education; and the promotion and facilitation of access, transfer and progression throughout the span of education. The National Framework of Qualifications is a ten level framework with higher education assigned to levels 6 to 10: Level 6 - Higher Certificate; Level 7 - Ordinary Bachelor Degree; Level 8 - Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 3 of 31

4 Honours Bachelor Degree and Higher Diploma; Level 9 -Masters Degree and Post-graduate Diploma; and Level 10 - Doctoral Degree. HETAC was tasked with making awards for learning in a wide range of higher education and training institutions, including the Institutes of Technology (IoTs). HETAC s main role was to set standards for named awards, validate programmes, make awards, agree and monitor Quality Assurance procedures and ensure fair and consistent assessment of learners. FETAC made awards for all learning in further education and training programmes. Institutes of Technology Act 2006 The sections of the Act were commenced by Order of the Minister for Education and Science on 1 February The Institutes of Technology Act 2006 designated the Institutes of Technology and the Dublin Institute of Technology under the Higher Education Authority (HEA). The Act substantially amended the Regional Technical Colleges Acts 1992 to 2001 and also amended the Higher Education Authority Act (HEA Act) The Regional Technical Colleges Acts 1992 to 2001 and Part 2 of the Institutes of Technology Act 2006 may be cited together as the Institutes of Technology Acts 1992 to Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) was established on 6 November 2012 under the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act QQI is an amalgamation of four bodies that have both awarding and quality assurance responsibilities: FETAC, HETAC, NQAI, and the Irish Universities Quality Board (IUQB). QQI will assume all the functions of the four legacy bodies while also having responsibility for new or newly-statutory responsibilities in particular areas. 3.2 Policy Framework These Postgraduate Research Regulations are based principally on the Irish Universities Quality Board s (IUQB) Guidelines for Good Practice in the Organisation of PhD Programmes in Irish Higher Education (2009), the IUQB s Irish Universities PhD Graduate Skills Statement (2009), and HETAC s Research Degree Programme Policy and Criteria (2010). 3.2 Research Approval, Research Accreditation and Delegated Authority Research Approval is defined as a process for the validation of research degree programmes at NFQ levels and/or in discipline-areas where there has been little or no prior provision by the provider concerned. Research Accreditation is defined as a process for the validation of research degree programmes at NFQ levels and/or discipline-areas where there is a track record demonstrating sustainable intrinsic capacity to comfortably provide the relevant research programmes and independently maintain a register of research students without the need for close monitoring. Research Approval is seen as a way for a provider to build-up its track record and progress towards meeting the criteria for Research Accreditation. A recognised institution with Research Accreditation in a discipline-area at either NFQ Level 9 or 10 may apply to QQI for delegated authority to award research degrees in that discipline-area at the appropriate NFQ level. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 4 of 31

5 LYIT has Research Approval in a number of discipline-areas and it is Institute strategy to achieve Research Approval for a number of additional discipline-areas where the Institute currently delivers programmes at Level 8 on the NFQ. In addition, the Institute is committed to achieving Research Accreditation in discipline-areas where the Institute currently has Research Approval and in the medium term to achieved Delegated Authority to make research degree awards. The Institute recognises that collaboration with other providers will be key to developing research provision at LYIT and existing collaborative arrangements with HE providers will be important in this regard. LYIT recognises the need for providers of research degree programmes to consult with other HEIs and with industry when developing their programmes. 4. AWARD STANDARDS 4.1 General Award Standards General QQI (formerly HETAC) award standards for Masters Degree and Doctoral Degree are detailed below. QQI has also adopted the Irish Universities PhD Graduates Skills statement and this should be used as a guideline for interpreting the standard particularly as regards transferable skills. The Irish Universities PhD Graduates Skills are included in Appendix Standard to be Attained by Masters Degree Candidates The award of Masters Degree by Research is made at level 9 in the National Framework of Qualifications. The learning outcomes at this level relate to the demonstration of knowledge and understanding which is the forefront of a field of learning. The outcomes relate to the application of knowledge, understanding and problem solving abilities in new or unfamiliar contexts related to a field of study. The outcomes are associated with an ability to integrate knowledge, handle complexity and formulate judgments. Outcomes associated with this level would link with employment as a senior professional or manager with responsibility for the work outputs of teams. Examiners should assess and may recommend the award of Masters Degree by Research in accordance with the following general criteria: a. This is a mutli-purpose award-type. The knowledge, skill and competence acquired are relevant to personal development, participation in society and community, employment, and access to additional education and training b. Examiners should assess and may recommend the Masters by Research award in accordance with the following general criteria: Title Masters Degree (NFQ Level 9) Knowledge Breadth A systematic understanding of knowledge at, or informed by, the forefront of a field of learning Knowledge Kind A critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, generally informed by the forefront of a field of learning Know-how and skill-range Demonstrate a range of standard and specialised research or equivalent tools and techniques Know-how and skill Selectivity Select from complex and advanced skills across a field of learning; develop new skills to a high level, including novel and emerging techniques Competence Context Act in a wide and often unpredictable variety of professional Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 5 of 31

6 Competence Role Competence Learning to learn Competence - Insight Progression Transfer levels and ill defined contexts Take significant responsibility for the work of individuals and groups; Lead and initiate activity Learn to self-evaluate and take responsibility for continuing academic/professional development Scrutinise and reflect on social norms and relationships and act to change them Progression to programmes leading to Doctoral Degree), or to another Masters Degree or to a Postgraduate Diploma The Irish Masters Degree is compatible with completion of the Bologna Second Cycle. Where discipline-specific standards for awards in respect of research degree programmes have been published by QQI, these should be used instead. Masters Degrees by Research All new entrants to masters research degree programmes shall be registered for the Masters Degree by Research. The title of the award should be appropriate to the thesis research area. The list of available award titles is provided by the Table of QQI Named Awards which is available on QQI s website. 4.3 Standard to be Attained by Doctoral Degree Candidates The award of Doctor of Philosophy is made at level 10 in the National Framework of Qualifications. The learning outcomes at this level relate to the discovery and development of new knowledge and skills and delivering findings at the frontiers of knowledge and application. Examiners should assess and may recommend the award of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in accordance with the following general criteria: a. This is a mutli-purpose award-type. The knowledge, skill and competence acquired are relevant to personal development, participation in society and community, employment, and access to additional education and training b. Examiners should assess and may recommend the Doctoral Degree award in accordance with the following general criteria: Title Doctoral Degree NFQ Level 10 Knowledge Breadth A systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of a field of learning Knowledge Kind The creation and interpretation of new knowledge, through original research, or other advanced scholarship, of a quality to satisfy review by peers Know-how and skill-range Demonstrate a significant range of the principal skills, techniques, tools, practices and/or materials which are associated with a field of learning; develop new skills, techniques, tools, practices and/or materials Know-how and skill Selectivity Respond to abstract problems that expand and redefine existing procedural knowledge Competence Context Exercise personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent contexts Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 6 of 31

7 Competence Role Communicate results of research and innovation to peers; engage in critical dialogue; lead and originate complex social processes Competence Learning to learn Learn to critique the broader implications of applying knowledge to particular contexts Competence - Insight Scrutinise and reflect on social norms and relationships and lead action to change them The above is consistent with the IUQB s Good Practice in the Organisation of PhD Programmes in Irish Higher Education which states that (Chapter 10, p.47): A PhD is normally awarded on the basis that a body of work carried out by the student makes a contribution to knowledge or is suitable for publication in whole or in part. Other aspects are also very important, including: The depth and breadth of understanding of the relevant field(s) of study displayed by the student, and The expertise gained with respect to basic and advanced methodologies and techniques. Evidence as to whether or not such criteria are met will be found in the dissertation, but the oral examination is critical to a full evaluation of a student s competence and of the standards that have been achieved. Where discipline-specific standards for awards in respect of research degree programmes have been published by QQI, these should be used instead. All new entrants to doctoral research degree programmes shall be registered for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. 5. GOVERNANCE 5.1 Governing Body The Governing Body of the Institute is established under Section 6 of the Regional Technical Colleges Act 1992 as amended by Section 4 of the Regional Technical Colleges (Amendment) Act Section 7 of the 1992 Act provides that Save as otherwise provided by this Act, the Governing Body of a college shall manage and control the affairs of the college. The 1992 Act gives the Institute the specific function of providing such courses of study as the Governing Body considers appropriate. It gives the Governing Body the function of approving annual programmes and budgets and determining numbers and terms of conditions of staff subject to the approval of the Minister. 5.2 Academic Council Section 10 of the Regional Technical Colleges Act 1992 requires that each college has an Academic Council to: assist the Governing Body in the planning, co-ordination, development and overseeing of the educational work of the college, and Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 7 of 31

8 protect, maintain and develop the academic standards of the courses and the activities of the college. Meetings of the Academic Council are held approximately three times per semester. The Academic Council s Research Committee is key to promoting and developing sustainable research programmes across the Institute. 5.3 Postgraduate Research Advisory Board The primary function of the Postgraduate Research Advisory Board is to assist and advise the Registrar in monitoring the overall registration, assessment and examination of candidates for the Institute's research degree programmes. The Registrar sends reports from this Board to Academic Council, which is responsible for making recommendations to the Governing Body for the selection, admission, retention and exclusion of students. The Postgraduate Research Advisory Board consists of the Registrar, Head of Development, Heads of School (2), Heads of Department (2), Chair of the AC s Research Committee, Academic Representatives (3) plus a panel of external academic advisors as nominated by the Registrar. The Board should meet once per semester and thereafter on an ad hoc basis as required. In case of matters arising for consideration by the Board at other times, an executive core committee comprising three members of the Board can be convened by the Registrar. The Board will normally serve for two academic years. Since requests for registrations, transfers and examination of candidates often occur periodically throughout the year, the Registrar may liaise with the Board and external panel members as required in writing to seek their advice or approval in relation to these requests rather than convene a meeting. Terms of reference: a. Review and approve all new applications for registration to research degree programmes before submission to QQI. b. Approve the results of any qualifying examination process as required to support a registration application. c. Review the annual assessment reports and approve the annual renewal of registrations. d. Review and approve applications for transfer between postgraduate research degree registers. e. Provide advice on the approval of internal and external examiners as required. f. Advise on professional development opportunities for research supervisors and research students. g. Deal with appeals and complaints as appropriate. In addition, the Board has a key role in organising research Seminars, both focused and interdisciplinary, to inform and to facilitate the dissemination and exchange of research findings and the further development of an Institute research culture. 5.4 Research Degree Programme Boards The Schools are responsible for the delivery of research degree programmes. They work closely with the Registrar's Office in this regard. Research Degree Programme Boards reside within the Schools. The Programme Board is comprised of a Head of School, Heads of Department and the research academic staff and student representatives, other staff or external advisors. Their main focus is to monitor and improve the ongoing delivery of the research degree programmes. In some instances a single Research Degree Programme Board may be established to cover the research activity of more than one School. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 8 of 31

9 Monitoring of progress of the research is carried out by the research supervisor through regular scheduled meetings and discussions with the student. The overall monitoring of the supervision process is carried out by the sponsoring School through the Programme Boards via meetings of the Programme Board, annual reviews, and complaints mechanisms. Student progress is assessed each semester by this Board through formal reports completed by the supervisors and students. The Research Degree Programme Board plays an important role in ensuring that appropriate research training is integrated into the research degree programme addressing general and transferable skills training and specialised training required to develop a broad understanding of the relevant discipline-area. Existing collaborative partnerships with other HEIs will be important in helping deliver the breadth of research training required 6. QQI PROCESSES 6.1 Research Programme Validation QQI defines research approval as a process for the validation of research degree programmes at NFQ levels and/or in discipline-areas where there has been little or no prior provision by the provider concerned. Research approval provides a platform for a provider to build-up its track record and progress towards meeting the criteria for research accreditation. QQI defines research accreditation as a process for the validation of research degree programmes at NFQ levels and/or discipline-areas where there is a track record demonstrating sustainable intrinsic capacity to comfortably provide the relevant research programmes and independently maintain a register of research students without the need for close monitoring. A registered QQI provider may only register a student for a research degree programme leading to a QQI award when either: a. The research falls within the scope of the provider s research approval and QQI s prior agreement has been obtained; or b. The research falls within the scope of the provider s research accreditation (or delegated authority). The Institute is required to make a submission for validation in relation to discipline-area research approval if such approval has not previously been obtained for the discipline-area or the NFQ level if it wishes to offer research programmes in the particular discipline-area or NFQ level. Students cannot be recruited for research programmes in a discipline-area or at an NFQ level where the Institute has not obtained relevant validation. QQI s (formerly HETAC s) Research Degree Programme Policy and Criteria (2010) sets out validation processes that Institutes must engage with in respect of research approval and research accreditation. 6.2 Special Conditions Attached to Discipline-area Research Approval Providers with research approval in a specified discipline-area at a specified NFQ level are subject to close monitoring by QQI in this respect and are required to meet the following conditions: a. Notify prospective research students, if not approved at doctoral level in the discipline-area, that they will probably need to change institution to transfer to doctoral level. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 9 of 31

10 b. It is the responsibility of the provider to ensure that such transfer arrangements are in place. c. Obtain independent expert opinion on each prospective student s proposed research project and the agreement of QQI before registering that student (or transferring him/her from the masters register to the doctoral register). d. Provide student registration data to QQI to facilitate monitoring and the making of awards. e. Notify QQI when candidates withdraw from a research degree programme. Invite QQI to nominate the independent chairperson for the assessment of candidates for research degrees. f. Self-evaluate approved discipline-areas at least once every five years (or when requested by QQI). g. Implement any recommendations made by QQI following initial approval or on consideration of any subsequent self-evaluation reports. 6.3 Special Conditions Attached to Discipline-area Research Accreditation Research accredited providers are required to: a. Notify prospective research students, if not approved at doctoral level in the discipline-area, that they will probably need to change institution to transfer to doctoral level. It is the responsibility of the provider to ensure that such transfer arrangements are in place. b. Provide student registration data to QQI to facilitate monitoring and the making of awards. c. Notify QQI when candidates withdraw from a research degree programme. d. Self-evaluate approved discipline-areas at least once every five years and report to QQI. e. Implement any recommendations made by QQI following initial approval or on consideration of any subsequent self-evaluation reports. 7. SUPERVISION 7.1 Supervision Arrangements Academic supervision is central to the successful completion of postgraduate research work. The supervisors play a key role in designing the research project, guiding the postgraduate student in his/her work, maintaining the general direction of the research, setting and maintaining appropriate targets for academic standards along with preparing the student for submission of their final thesis for examination. Each registered postgraduate research student in the Institute will have a supervisory team which is normally composed of a Principal Supervisor and at least one Co-Supervisor. All proposed Principal Supervisors and Co- Supervisors must hold either a Masters (level 9) or a PhD (level 10) Degree. The supervisor(s) should work with the student to establish an effective supervisory relationship. The relevant Head of School will ensure that the quality of supervision is not put at risk as a result of an excessive volume and range of responsibilities assigned to individual supervisors. Before agreeing to supervise a research student, supervisors should satisfy themselves that they have the necessary knowledge and expertise to supervise the project which the student wishes to undertake, that the project is appropriate for the level of degree and can reasonably be undertaken with the resources available and within the required time-scale, and they are confident, as far as is possible, that the student is capable of undertaking the project successfully. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 10 of 31

11 The supervisory team will be currently engaged in research in the relevant discipline(s), so as to ensure that the direction and monitoring of the student's progress is informed by up to date subject knowledge and research developments. 7.2 Principal Supervisor The Principal Supervisor should meet the following requirements: a. Be a full-time academic member of the staff of the Institute b. Have academic qualifications at least at the level of the award being sought by the candidate in the broad discipline-area of the proposed research project. c. Have experience and demonstrated ability to supervise at least one research student to completion at the appropriate level at a recognised academic institution. d. Be research-active and have a demonstrable track record in the relevant research field Where a proposed Principal Supervisor does not satisfy all the requirements laid out above, a Mentoring Supervisor must be appointed to supervise on the programme. 7.3 Co-Supervisor In order to act in the role of Co-Supervisor, a supervisor will: a. Be a current or former member of academic staff of the Institute or another recognised Higher Education Institute (HEI). b. Have academic qualifications at least at the level of the award being sought by the candidate in the broad discipline-area of the proposed research project. c. Have experience and demonstrated ability to supervise research students at the appropriate level at a recognised academic institution d. Be research-active and have a demonstrable track record in research. 7.4 Mentoring Supervisor The Postgraduate Research Advisory Board may appoint an additional mentoring supervisor on a research programme where either the Principal Supervisor and/or Co-supervisor do not meet the required criteria laid out under sections 7.2 and 7.3. In order to act as a Mentoring Supervisor it must be demonstrated that he/she has the prerequisite experience within the discipline-area proposed and that he/she meets all of the criteria for the approval of a Principal Supervisor or Co-supervisor as outlined in paragraphs 7.2 and Supervisor Responsibilities The supervisors have a range of duties and responsibilities in overseeing the progress of the postgraduate research programme including: a. Providing satisfactory guidance and advice to the student on the research project and the standard expected; the planning and timing of the successive stages of the research programme; literature and sources of information for the project; research methods and instrumental techniques; attendance at appropriate courses; avoidance of plagiarism and respect for copyright. The supervisor(s) should guide the student on how best to complete the research project, including preparation of a thesis within the time available. b. Monitoring the progress of the student's research programme. The supervisors must ensure that regular meetings or supervisory sessions take place maintaining a record of formal supervision Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 11 of 31

12 meetings for each student to include: date of meeting, summary of discussion and any specific advice given. c. Ensuring that the student is aware of his/her requirement to conduct their research in accordance with the ethical and safety standards of the Institute. d. Arranging training on subject-specific material and skills and generic skills as appropriate. e. Establishing and maintaining a satisfactory timetable for the research. In the event of standards of work falling below appropriate levels ensure remedial action as appropriate. f. Providing timely, constructive advice and effective feedback on the student's work, including his/her overall progress within the programme on a regular basis. The supervisor should take note of feedback from the student. g. Arranging, as appropriate, for the student to present work to staff or graduate seminars or conferences. The Supervisor(s) should provide advice on writing up the research, or parts of it, for publication and presentation. h. Notifying the student well in advance of any planned periods of absence from the Institute. If the period of absence is significant the Supervisor(s) should ensure that appropriate arrangements for alternative supervision are made, where required, and that the student is informed of them. i. Completing annual progress reports on the project. The Supervisor(s) may also be required from time to time by either the external funding bodies or collaborative centres to provide a written report on the progress of the research project and should ensure that all requirements concerning the submission of such reports are complied with. j. Making recommendation on requests for transfer to a higher or lower register and advise the student on writing the transfer report required for Masters to Doctoral transfers. k. Initiating the process for the appointment of examiners well in advance of the thesis being submitted. The supervisor(s) should advise on the nomination of appropriate examiners and seek approval for the proposed examiners from the Head of Department. l. Advising the student on the format and lay-out of the thesis, and providing guidance on the drafting of the thesis. m. Reading thesis material in both proof and final form, making suggestions on editing and/or correction, before it is formally submitted for examination. n. Ensuring that the student understands the procedures for the submission and examination of theses and assisting the student in preparing for the viva voce/oral examination, where required. 7.6 Research Training For each discipline-area the following elements will be integrated into the research degree programme: General and transferable skills training; Specialised training required to develop a broad understanding of the relevant discipline-area and as dictated by the nature of the research being undertaken; Seminars, both focused and interdisciplinary, to inform and to facilitate the dissemination and exchange of research findings, enabling peer review and quality assessment. It is the responsibility of the supervisors to support the student in respect of his/her research training and to work with the Postgraduate Research Advisory Board and the relevant Research Degree Programme Board in this regard. Existing collaborative partnerships with other HEIs will be important in helping deliver the breadth of research training required. 8. ADMISSION AND REGISTRATION Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 12 of 31

13 8.1 Admission to a Masters Degree by Research The admission criteria for a Masters Degree by Research take cognisance of nature of knowledge, skill and competence required for the successful completion of a typical masters level research degree programme, they include: a. Candidates have achieved an Honours Bachelor Degree with a performance equivalent of at least second class honours (which is a major award type at Level 8 in NFQ.) The Bachelor s qualification must be in a field of study directly related to the subject matter of the Masters Degree b. Candidates hold recognised academic qualifications determined to be at least equivalent to the requirement indicated in the preceding paragraph c. Candidates hold a recognised professional qualification (which requires professional experience and work achievement) and which testifies to the possession of the required knowledge, skill and competence d. Candidates who have demonstrated the required knowledge, skill and competence by passing a qualifying examination conducted by an approved or accredited provider. 8.2 Admission to Doctor of Philosophy Degree Applicants to doctoral research degree programmes are required to complete a probationary period before their registration is confirmed. It is expected that students applying for a doctoral research programme will have already completed a Masters Degree. The admission criteria for a PhD level research degree programme take cognisance of nature of knowledge, skill and competence required for a PhD programme, they include: a. Candidates who have achieved an Honours Bachelor Degree with a performance equivalent of at least second class upper division honours (which is a major award type at Level 8 in NFQ.) The Bachelor s qualification must be in a field of study directly related to the subject matter of the Masters Degree b. Candidates who have set out on a Masters research programme and successfully completed a transfer examination c. Candidates holding a Masters degree in a cognate area. d. Candidates who hold recognised academic qualifications determined to be at least equivalent to the requirements indicated by the preceding paragraphs e. Candidates with a recognised professional qualification (which requires a high level of professional experience and work achievement) and which testifies to the possession of the required knowledge, skill and competence f. Candidates who have demonstrated the required knowledge, skill and competence by passing a qualifying examination conducted by an approved or accredited provider. 8.3 Student Selection Candidates are informed they can prepare an application for admission to the appropriate research degree register and that the Principal Supervisor will advise him/her on how the application is to be completed. All applicants wishing to register for a research degree programme must undergo a formal interview process to ascertain their suitability for carrying out the proposed research to the level required for the postgraduate award. Following a successful outcome to the pre-admission interview and the assessment of his/her submitted application documentation, the candidate is deemed eligible to register for the appropriate degree programme. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 13 of 31

14 A candidate applying for a studentship for a postgraduate research degree programme is normally recruited following public advertisement. Studentship availability is dependent on the successful outcome of an application for research funding to an internal or external funding authority. The process for the selection and recruitment of a candidate for a research studentship is managed overall by the Development Office. 8.4 Assessment of Qualifications Procedures exist to determine whether applicants holding qualifications not placed on the NFQ or not from the Irish University Sector (i.e. non-national degrees, professional or equivalent qualifications) have the knowledge, skill and competence required to successfully complete the proposed research degree programme within the time allowed. These procedures are consistent with international best practice. Prior to the formal application for registration, the candidate must provide the Principal Supervisor with full details of his/her qualifications. For applicants with equivalent and/or professional qualifications the following procedure applies: a. Prior to the formal application for registration the candidate must provide the Principal Supervisor with full details of their qualifications who then submits the form to the Registrar's Office for consideration. b. The Registrar assesses the qualifications in consultation with the Institute's Postgraduate Research Advisory Board. c. The Registrar's Office communicates the outcome of the qualifications assessment back to the Principal Supervisor before a formal registration application can proceed. In considering an applicant in this category, the Institute Research Advisory Board shall look for evidence of the candidate's ability and background knowledge in relation to the proposed research. Professional experience, publications, written reports or other appropriate evidence of accomplishment shall be taken into consideration. The Registrar may require an applicant to pass a qualifying examination normally at final year honours degree level in appropriate modules as determined by the Supervisor(s) (in consultation with the relevant Head of School) before registration is approved. An applicant wishing to be considered under this regulation must include in the application for registration the names of two suitable persons whom the Institute may consult concerning the candidate's academic attainment and fitness for research. 8.5 Language of Instruction for Thesis Studies are normally conducted and the final thesis submitted through the medium of English as agreed between the postgraduate student and the Supervisor(s). Theses and other materials submitted may be presented in another language (as dictated by the balance of the subject matter), provided that prior written approval of the Supervisor(s) and the Institute Registrar has been obtained. In those cases all applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in that language in their admission application to be in line with the entry requirements All applicants who have not been educated through the medium of Irish or English to Leaving Certificate or equivalent must present a recognised qualification in the English language with their application. Certain projects may require a higher level of proficiency in English and in such cases the Registrar on recommendation from the Supervisor(s) may require the applicant to take part in a further oral and/or written examination to demonstrate the required level of proficiency for the project. If the Registrar deems the applicant does not possess the level of English required then the application cannot be progressed further. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 14 of 31

15 9. STUDENT 9.1 Responsibilities of the Student Students have ultimate responsibility for the eventual success or failure of their Research Study Programme. The student should work with the supervisors to establish an effective supervisory relationship, tackling the research with a positive commitment, and taking full advantage of the resources and facilities offered by the academic environment. The responsibilities of a postgraduate student include: a. Taking responsibility for his/her research activity and candidacy for the degree. b. Ensuring that he/she is familiar with relevant aspects of the Institute health safety and welfare framework. c. Ensuring that he/she is familiar with and complies fully with the Institute's rules and regulations, Postgraduate Research Regulations, Intellectual Property Policy and procedures appropriate to their research degree programme. a. Making Supervisor(s) aware of any specific needs or circumstances likely to affect his/her work including the extent of any paid employment commitments and about their impact (if any) on the research b. Ensuring that any circumstances that might require his/her mode of study to be modified or his/her registration to be extended, suspended or withdrawn, are brought to the attention of his/her Supervisor(s). c. Making appropriate use of any teaching and learning facilities and training opportunities made available by the Institute or School. d. Successfully completing of any training arranged. e. Maintaining satisfactory progress with the programme of research. This includes keeping up-to-date with the literature related to the research area; performing and completing tasks in the research project on a day-to-day basis. f. Conducting their research within the ethical standards of the Institute. g. Ensuring that he/she is familiar with relevant aspects of the Institute health safety and welfare framework. h. Maintaining regular contact with Supervisor(s). The student should agree with the Supervisor(s) to have regular meetings and to prepare adequately for those meetings to discuss plans of action and targets for progression of the research work. i. Setting and keeping to timetables and deadlines, including planning and submitting work as and when required. The student should take note of guidance and feedback given by their Supervisor(s). j. Communicating both orally and in writing, his/her research findings, as agreed by the Supervisor(s). Typically this would involve presentation at seminars and conferences and/or preparing or writing papers for submission to journals etc. k. Completing an annual progress report by the set date each academic year. The student may be required to make an oral presentation to an assessment panel where there has been unsatisfactory progress. l. Informing the Supervisor(s) of significant problems and difficulties as early as possible. The importance of prompt identification and resolution of any problems cannot be over emphasised, and it is the responsibility of the student in the first instance to ensure that any problems are raised at the appropriate level at the earliest opportunity. m. Deciding when he/she wishes to submit his/her thesis, in agreement with the Supervisor(s). n. Complying fully with the examination procedures. Students must refrain from interacting with the examiners. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 15 of 31

16 Research students should have access to appropriate career guidance and networking opportunities which should include options outside academia. 10. ONGOING MONITORING AND TRANSFER BETWEEN REGISTERS 10.1 Annual Research Progress Review The renewal of registration for a research degree programme is dependent on a positive outcome to the Annual Research Progress Review. All annual reviews should be conducted within the first three months of the new academic year. Progress reports must be submitted by the Head of School to the Registrar from the following: a. Student (LYIT Postgraduate Student Annual Report Form) b. Principal Supervisor (LYIT Supervisor s Annual Report Form) c. Letter from the Head of School indicating the level of satisfaction with each student's progress together with a recommendation regarding continuing registration for the subsequent academic year. The Postgraduate Student Annual Report Form to the Head of School addresses the following headings: a. agreed research plan with supervisors b. structured work schedule and compliance with schedule c. level of satisfaction with supervision and general progress to date d. frequency of meetings with supervisors e. target date for submission of thesis. Each Principal Supervisor (in conjunction with the Co-Supervisor(s)) must complete and submit a Supervisors Annual Progress Report form to their Head of School addressing: a. agreed research plan with postgraduate student b. structured work schedule and compliance with schedule c. frequency of meetings with postgraduate student d. training in research skills and techniques required by the student e. summary of feedback received from the student to date f. any serious problems encountered with the research to date g. supervisor satisfaction with the general progress of the work to date h. target date for submission of thesis i. supervisor's recommendation for transfer to a higher or lower register Application to Transfer from the Masters to the Doctoral Register Students wishing to transfer from the Masters Register to the Doctoral Register will make a formal application to the Registrar through the sponsoring School. Normally, such applications should not be made earlier than one year after admission to the Masters register; and not later than one year before the expected date of completion of the proposed doctoral research. A request for transfer can only be initiated following the recommendation of the Supervisor(s) in consultation with the sponsoring School. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 16 of 31

17 An External Expert is required to carry out an assessment of the student's suitability to conduct proposed research to the knowledge, skill and competence level required for Doctoral Degree programmes. The External Expert must submit a report on their assessment to the Head of School indicating whether it is recommended the student transfer to the Doctoral register or not with supporting reasons. Where the external examiner recommends the student for transfer, the student and supervisors must complete the QQI Application for Transfer to Doctoral Register form. The completed form and assessors' report are submitted directly to the Registrar's Office for consideration by the Institute's Postgraduate Research Advisory Board before submission to QQI for approval. The outcome of the QQI approval process is communicated to the student, Principal Supervisor and Head of School by the Registrar. Where the student has not been recommended for transfer by the Institute or QQI then the student can appeal the decision through the appropriate registration appeals process Application to Transfer from the Doctoral to the Masters Register Students on the Doctoral Register, who are unable to complete the approved programme within the permitted duration for any reason may through the sponsoring School, apply to the Registrar for permission to transfer to the Masters Register. The Registrar may permit such a transfer if satisfied that there are good reasons for doing so, and submit this request to QQI to have the registration amended. The attachment of special conditions, including provisions with regard to duration, to the candidate's registration for the Degree of Masters may be required at the request of the Institute's Postgraduate Research Advisory Board and/or QQI as required The outcome of the QQI amendment process will be communicated to the student, Principal Supervisor and Head of School by the Registrar. 11. DURATION OF RESEARCH STUDY PROGRAMMES 11.1 Masters Research Programme Students can register either on a full-time or part-time basis. The normal duration for fulltime students on a masters research programme is two years. Normally full-time students may not submit a thesis within their first year of study. The Postgraduate Research Advisory Board may grant a time extension of up to an additional one year for thesis submission. Under exceptional circumstances an extension beyond three years may be granted. The normal duration for part-time students on a masters research programme is four years. Normally part-time students may not submit a thesis before two years. The Postgraduate Research Advisory Board may grant a time extension of an additional one year for thesis submission. Under exceptional circumstances an extension beyond five years may be granted PhD Research Programme Students can register either on a full-time or part-time basis. The normal duration for full-time students on a PhD research programme is three years whereas the normal completion time for students registered on structured PhD research programmes is four years. Normally full-time students may not submit a thesis before three years. The Postgraduate Research Advisory Board may grant a time extension of up to an additional two years for thesis submission. Under exceptional circumstances an extension beyond five years may be granted. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 17 of 31

18 The normal duration for part-time students on a PhD research programme is five years. Normally part-time students may not submit a thesis before three years. The Postgraduate Research Advisory Board may grant a time extension of an additional two years for thesis submission. Under exceptional circumstances an extension beyond seven years may be granted Changes to Mode of Study In the event that a postgraduate student wishes to change their mode of study, from part-time to full-time or vice versa, it is essential that the Supervisor(s) be consulted about the implications and feasibility of this course of action and make application through the Head of School and to the Registrar. Where the Registrar upholds a request in terms of change of mode of study the request must be sent to QQI for consideration Leave of Absence from Studies All requests for extended periods of leave outside of annual leave require the approval of the Head of School. Such requests must be made in writing outlining the reasons for the request. Where the extended leave has an impact on the proposed target date for submission of a thesis, this must be communicated by the Head of School to the Registrar, so QQI can be notified. However, the granting of leave of absence may have significant impact on the postgraduate educational programme. These will be assessed on an individual basis. Extended leave of absence may render the research programme untenable. 12. THESIS FORMAT General Formatting The thesis should be in typescript or print (12-point type) on A4-size paper single sided, with pages numbered consecutively. The main text should be typed or printed in one and one half or double spacing; footnotes and quotations should be typed or printed (10-point type) in single spacing. On each page there should be a left-hand margin of at least 40mm and a right hand margin of at least 20mm. Each such page should also have a page number. Photographs or diagrams, if any, should, where feasible, be incorporated digitally within the text. Where this is not appropriate or practicable they should be fixed firmly in place. They should be provided with reference numbers and legends. Where the thesis consists of more than one volume, the pagination should indicate the relevant volume number as well as the page-number on each page. Appendices should be named alphabetically, and each appendix paginated consecutively but separately from the main text and from each other. Page numbers should be located centrally at the bottom of the page and about 20mm above the edge of the page Thesis Cover The covers of the copies of the thesis initially submitted are soft. The copies of the thesis finally submitted are hard-bound, with inscriptions on the cover and spine as specified below. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 18 of 31

19 For a Masters theses the hard-bound cover is required to be of dark (navy) blue colour. For Doctoral theses the hard-bound cover is required to be black. In all cases the cover should be of sufficient strength that it may stand upright unsupported on a shelf. The front cover must be gold-embossed with the following inscription: Full title of the thesis (in 20 point type) together with any subtitles Name of the candidate Award for which the thesis is submitted Full name of the Institute Year of submission Volume number and the total number of volumes, if more than one. The spine of the hard-bound cover is also required to be gold-embossed, in a smaller type if necessary, with the following: Name of the candidate Award for which the thesis is submitted Year of submission Volume number, if more than one 12.3 Thesis Layout The elements of the thesis should be set out in the following order Title Page The title page of each volume of the thesis should contain the following information: Full title of the thesis, with any subtitles, in 20 point type; if there is more than one volume, the total number of volumes and the number of the particular volume; Institute Logo Full name of the author with, if desired, any qualifications or distinctions; Award for which the thesis is submitted in the following format being a thesis presented for the award of Master of xx (by research) or being a thesis presented for the award of Doctor of Philosophy. Names of the supervisors of the research, including titles and full qualifications Name and address of the Institute, including the name of the sponsoring Department As the last line on the page, the statement "Submitted to Quality and Qualifications Ireland Month and year of submission of thesis to QQI Declaration Statement The following declaration with the appropriate signatures must be included: Declaration I hereby certify that the material, which l now submit for assessment on the programmes of study leading to the award of [a Master of xx (Research) or PhD], is entirely my own work and has not been taken from the work of others except to the extent that such work has been cited and acknowledged within the text of my own work. No Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 19 of 31

20 portion of the work contained in this thesis has been submitted in support of an application for another degree or qualification to this or any other institution. Signature of Candidate Date I hereby certify that all the unreferenced work described in this thesis and submitted for the award of [a Master of xx (Research) or PhD], is entirely the work of. No portion of the work contained in this thesis has been submitted in support of an application for another degree or qualification to this or any other institution. Signature of Supervisors Date Acknowledgements Personal acknowledgments and/or dedications may be included by the candidate directly after the declaration page. Where possible these should be restricted to one page and be of a tone appropriate to a higher degree Abstract of Thesis The thesis should include a single-page abstract not exceeding 300 words. The abstract should be printed or typed in single spacing and should indicate the author and title of the thesis in the form of a heading. Each copy of the thesis submitted to QQI should include a separate copy of the abstract Abbreviations List At this stage a list of abbreviations and symbols used in the thesis should be provided, where necessary, together with their meanings, definitions and/or the terms they represent. The abbreviations or symbols should be listed alphabetically and each one followed by its full term or definition as appropriate Table of Contents There should be a table of contents which includes the number and title of each chapter of the thesis, numerically referenced chapter subsection headings, references and appendices with corresponding page numbers. Thesis page numbering should begin directly after the table of contents. A table of illustrations, figures etc. may also be included where it is deemed appropriate Chapters in Sequence The main headings for the chapters themselves and for the main sections of the chapters should be given in capital letters. Subsidiary headings, used for subsections of associated paragraphs, should use initial capital letters only References/Bibliography References should be thorough and comprehensive. It is essential that a consistent single form or style of referencing is used throughout the thesis. It is recommended that the style of referencing used be consistent with any pre-determined Departmental format. The form used should accord with the norms and accepted standards for the discipline and should be agreed with the Supervisor(s). Within the text, every reference should enable the reader to identify the work cited and locate the specific passage referred to. Footnotes and indented quotations, where included, may be single line spaced. The footnotes in each chapter should be numbered consecutively. Section15 (Approved at Academic Council 29 November 2013 Page 20 of 31