Make a significant change to my thesis

HDR students whose research project changes significantly from the one proposed at the commencement of candidature must apply to change the project, to ensure that appropriate resources are available for the new project.

If you are changing supervisors, you should also complete the HDR Application to Change Supervisory Team.
 

How to prepare

• read Higher Degrees by Research Policy Section 4.6
• read HDR Admission and Enrolment Procedures Section 6
• consult your supervisor (you may still apply if they disagree)
• organise documentary evidence to support your request. Provide a statement in support of your case for a significant change to your research project which includes:
  
  • Title of revised research project
  • A brief explanation of your reasons for changing your research project
  • An outline of the revised research project
  • A description of the extent to which work completed to date on the original project can contribute towards the revised project, and
  • A completion plan for completing the revised project within the remaining period of your candidature (which includes details and expected completion dates for draft chapters and any additional field work, data analysis, or laboratory work required for the project).
• ensure your milestones are up to date before applying
• confirm your contact and candidature details in the Student Information System.  
  

How to apply

• Complete the request online via Inspire and submit it at least four weeks before the proposed change. Please also complete the Completion Plan, and submit with your application.
• If you submit your application after the census date it may affect your Research Training Program (RTP) fee offset or international tuition fees.
• You may seek changes to prior enrolment periods only if extenuating circumstances exist and you must include supporting evidence such as medical documentation for the Dean of Graduate Research to review.
• The Office of Graduate Research will notify you of the outcome via your Flinders email address.