Commencing Candidates

The following information relates to you as a commencing Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidate. Individual Colleges will also have information for new candidates, particularly relating to Workplace Health and Safety legislation. Please organise to undertake a College-based induction that includes Workplace Health and Safety matters as soon as possible after enrolment, and ensure that you retain evidence that you have completed this training. Contact your College’s Academic Services Officer (ASO) for further information.

Your Welcome Pack and Handbook

The Graduate Research School (GRS) provides a welcome pack that highlights key information relevant to you as a commencing HDR candidate. The GRS also encourages candidates to familiarise themselves with the content of the GRS website, in particular the contents of this Commencing Candidates webpage as well as our Enrolled Candidates webpage.

• Handbook for Commencing Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Candidates

Upon enrolment in your research degree, you should also download the following forms and complete them when you meet with your advisory panel:

• CAA-FORM-01 Candidate & Advisor 6 week Check-In
• HDR Candidate Intellectual Property Agreement

Getting Started

The following information is relevant to all commencing research higher degree candidates at JCU.  It is important that candidates are aware of their responsibilities in terms of professional and generic skills development and training, as well as research ethics, reporting requirements and candidature milestones. All JCU HDR candidates must undertake compulsory workshops during the early stages of their candidature.  The links below will direct you to the relevant information. International candidates, including those who have English as an Additional Language, should note the need to undertake the SKIP program and, in certain specified cases, take the PELA test.

• Post-Entry Language Assessment (PELA)
• SKIP: Skills for International Postgraduates
• HDR Candidate Induction and Professional Development Workshops
• JCU's Investment in Research Training and Education
• Set up your JCU computer and email account
• eResources for HDR Candidates
• Student Fees
• Project Funding and Resources
• Research Ethics and Integrity
• Research Education Policy
• Graduate Research School Procedures
• JCU Travel Procedures (PDF, 151 KB)
• JCU Library and Computing Services