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Faculty of Science

 Bachelor of Science (Honours) and Bachelor of Information Systems (Honours)


Table of Contents

1. General Faculty information about Honours
    1.1. Course overview
    1.2. Bachelor of Science (Honours) disciplines available
    1.3. Admission requirements
        1.3.1. Faculty of Science entry requirements
            1.3.1.1. Faculty Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Honours Program
            1.3.1.2. Faculty Requirements for the Bachelor of Information Systems Honours Program
        1.3.2. Departmental requirements
    1.4. Duration and commencement of the course
    1.5. Structure of the course
        1.5.1. Bachelor of Science Honours program
        1.5.2. Bachelor of Information Systems Honours program
    1.6. Course requirements
        1.6.1. Bachelor of Science Honours program
        1.6.2. Bachelor of Information Systems Honours program
    1.7. Variations to Honours candidature
        1.7.1. Deferment
        1.7.2. Leave of absence
    1.8. Application procedure
    1.9. Further information about Honours Programs
2. Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology
    2.1. Anatomy and Cell Biology Honours Program
        2.1.1. Overview
        2.1.2. Admission requirements
        2.1.3. Honours Coordinator
        2.1.4. Duration and commencement of course
        2.1.5. Assessment
            2.1.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            2.1.5.2. Components of assessment
            2.1.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            2.1.5.4. Research Project subject
        2.1.6. Further information
    2.2. Topographic Anatomy Honours program
        2.2.1. Overview
        2.2.2. Admission requirements
        2.2.3. Honours Coordinator
        2.2.4. Duration and commencement of course
        2.2.5. Assessment
            2.2.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            2.2.5.2. Components of assessment
            2.2.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            2.2.5.4. Research Project subject
        2.2.6. Further information
3. Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
    3.1. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Honours program
        3.1.1. Overview
        3.1.2. Admission requirements
        3.1.3. Honours Coordinator
        3.1.4. Duration and commencement of course
        3.1.5. Assessment
            3.1.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            3.1.5.2. Components of assessment
            3.1.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            3.1.5.4. Research Project subject
        3.1.6. Further information
    3.2. Combined Biochemistry and Chemistry (Biochemistry coursework) Honours Program
        3.2.1. Overview
        3.2.2. Admission requirements
        3.2.3. Honours Coordinators
        3.2.4. Duration and commencement of course
        3.2.5. Assessment
            3.2.5.1. Components of assessment
            3.2.5.2. Advanced Coursework subject
            3.2.5.3. Research Project subject
        3.2.6. Further information
4. Department of Botany
    4.1. Overview
    4.2. Admission requirements
    4.3. Honours Coordinator
    4.4. Duration and commencement of course
    4.5. Assessment
        4.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        4.5.2. Components of assessment
            4.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            4.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    4.6. Further information
5. School of Chemistry
    5.1. Chemistry Honours program
        5.1.1. Overview
        5.1.2. Admission requirements
        5.1.3. Honours Coordinator
        5.1.4. Duration and commencement of course
        5.1.5. Assessment
            5.1.5.1. Hurdle Assessment requirements
            5.1.5.2. Components of assessment
            5.1.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            5.1.5.4. Research Project subject
        5.1.6. Further information
    5.2. Combined Chemistry and Biochemistry (Chemistry coursework) Honours Program
        5.2.1. Overview
        5.2.2. Admission requirements
        5.2.3. Honours Coordinators
        5.2.4. Duration and commencement of course
        5.2.5. Assessment
            5.2.5.1. Hurdle Assessment requirements
            5.2.5.2. Components of assessment
            5.2.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            5.2.5.4. Research Project subject
        5.2.6. Further information
    5.3. Combined Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (Chemistry coursework) Honours Program
        5.3.1. Overview
        5.3.2. Admission requirements
        5.3.3. Honours Coordinator
        5.3.4. Duration and commencement of course
        5.3.5. Assessment
            5.3.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            5.3.5.2. Components of assessment
            5.3.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            5.3.5.4. Research Project subject
        5.3.6. Further information
6. Department of Computer Science
    6.1. Overview
    6.2. Admission requirements
    6.3. Honours Coordinator
    6.4. Duration and commencement of course
    6.5. Assessment
        6.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        6.5.2. Components of assessment
            6.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subjects
            6.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    6.6. Further information
7. School of Earth Sciences
    7.1. Overview
    7.2. Admission requirements
    7.3. Honours Coordinator
    7.4. Duration and commencement of course
    7.5. Assessment
        7.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        7.5.2. Components of assessment
            7.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            7.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    7.6. Further information
8. Department of Genetics
    8.1. Overview
    8.2. Admission requirements
    8.3. Honours Coordinator
    8.4. Duration and commencement of course
    8.5. Assessment
        8.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        8.5.2. Components of assessment
            8.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            8.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    8.6. Further information
9. Department of Geography and Environmental Studies
    9.1. Overview
    9.2. Admission requirements
    9.3. Honours Coordinator
    9.4. Duration and commencement of course
    9.5. Assessment
        9.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        9.5.2. Components of assessment
        9.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
        9.5.4. Research Project subject
    9.6. Further information
10. Department of History and Philosophy of Science
    10.1. Overview
    10.2. Admission requirements
    10.3. Honours Coordinator
    10.4. Duration and commencement of course
    10.5. Assessment
        10.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        10.5.2. Components of assessment
        10.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
        10.5.4. Research Project subject
    10.6. Further information
11. Department of Information Systems
    11.1. Overview
    11.2. Admission requirements
    11.3. Honours Coordinator
    11.4. Duration and commencement of course
    11.5. Assessment
        11.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        11.5.2. Components of assessment
        11.5.3. 615-496 Information Systems Research Project
        11.5.4. Advanced Coursework subjects
    11.6. Further information
12. Department of Mathematics and Statistics
    12.1. Mathematics and Statistics Honours Program
        12.1.1. Overview
        12.1.2. Admission requirements
        12.1.3. Honours Coordinators
        12.1.4. Duration and commencement of course
        12.1.5. Assessment
            12.1.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            12.1.5.2. Components of assessment
            12.1.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            12.1.5.4. Research Project subject
        12.1.6. Further information
    12.2. Applied Statistics Honours Program
        12.2.1. Overview
        12.2.2. Admission requirements
        12.2.3. Honours Coordinator
        12.2.4. Duration and commencement of course
        12.2.5. Assessment
            12.2.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            12.2.5.2. Components of assessment
            12.2.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            12.2.5.4. Research Project subject
        12.2.6. Further information
    12.3. Combined Mathematics and Statistics/Physics Honours Program
        12.3.1. Overview
        12.3.2. Admission requirements
        12.3.3. Honours Coordinators
        12.3.4. Duration and commencement of course
        12.3.5. Assessment
            12.3.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            12.3.5.2. Components of assessment
            12.3.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            12.3.5.4. Research Project subject
        12.3.6. Further information
    12.4. Combined Mathematics and Statistics/Computer Science Honours Program
        12.4.1. Overview
        12.4.2. Admission requirements
        12.4.3. Honours Coordinators
        12.4.4. Duration of Course and commencement of course
        12.4.5. Assessment
            12.4.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
            12.4.5.2. Components of assessment
            12.4.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
            12.4.5.4. Research Project subject
        12.4.6. Further information
13. Department of Medical Biology
    13.1. Overview
    13.2. Admission requirements
    13.3. Honours Coordinator
    13.4. Duration and commencement of course
    13.5. Assessment
        13.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        13.5.2. Components of assessment
        13.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
        13.5.4. Research Project subject
    13.6. Further information
14. Department of Medicine (Austin and Repatriation Medical Centre)
    14.1. Overview
    14.2. Admission requirements
    14.3. Honours Coordinators
    14.4. Duration and commencement of course
    14.5. Assessment
        14.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        14.5.2. Components of assessment
    14.6. Further information
15. Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital)
    15.1. Overview
    15.2. Admission requirements
    15.3. Honours Coordinator
    15.4. Duration and commencement of course
    15.5. Assessment
        15.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        15.5.2. Components of assessment
            15.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            15.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    15.6. Further information
16. Department of Microbiology and Immunology
    16.1. Overview
    16.2. Admission requirements
    16.3. Honours Coordinator
    16.4. Duration and commencement of course
    16.5. Assessment
        16.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        16.5.2. Components of assessment
    16.6. Further information
17. Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences
    17.1. Overview
    17.2. Admission Requirements
    17.3. Honours Coordinators
    17.4. Duration and commencement of course
    17.5. Assessment
        17.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        17.5.2. Components of assessment
        17.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
        17.5.4. Research Project subject
    17.6. Further information
18. School of Dental Science (Oral Biology)
    18.1. Overview
    18.2. Admission requirements
    18.3. Honours Coordinator
    18.4. Duration and commencement of course
    18.5. Assessment
        18.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        18.5.2. Components of assessment
            18.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            18.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    18.6. Further information
19. Department of Otolaryngology
    19.1. Overview
    19.2. Admission Requirements
    19.3. Honours Coordinator
    19.4. Duration and Commencement of Course
    19.5. Assessment
        19.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        19.5.2. Components of assessment
        19.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject
        19.5.4. Research Project subject
    19.6. Further Information
20. Department of Paediatrics
    20.1. Overview
    20.2. Admission requirements
    20.3. Honours Coordinators
    20.4. Duration and commencement of course
    20.5. Assessment
        20.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        20.5.2. Components of assessment
            20.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            20.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    20.6. Further information
21. Department of Pathology
    21.1. Overview
    21.2. Admission requirements
    21.3. Honours Coordinators
    21.4. Duration and commencement of course
    21.5. Assessment
        21.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        21.5.2. Components of assessment
            21.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            21.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    21.6. Further information
22. Department of Pharmacology
    22.1. Overview
    22.2. Admission requirements
    22.3. Honours Coordinators
    22.4. Duration of course and commencement of course
    22.5. Assessment
        22.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        22.5.2. Components of assessment
            22.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            22.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    22.6. Further information
23. School of Physics
    23.1. Overview
    23.2. Admission requirements
    23.3. Honours Coordinator
    23.4. Duration and commencement of course
    23.5. Assessment
        23.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        23.5.2. Components of assessment
            23.5.2.1. Research Project
            23.5.2.2. Advanced Coursework
    23.6. Further information
24. Department of Physiology
    24.1. Overview
    24.2. Admission requirements
    24.3. Honours Coordinators
    24.4. Duration and commencement of course
    24.5. Assessment
        24.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        24.5.2. Components of assessment
            24.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            24.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    24.6. Further information
25. Department of Psychiatry (Austin and Repatriation Medical Centre)
    25.1. Overview
    25.2. Admission requirements
    25.3. Honours Coordinators
    25.4. Duration and commencement of course
    25.5. Assessment
        25.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        25.5.2. Advanced Coursework subject
        25.5.3. Research Project subject
        25.5.4. Further information
26. Department of Psychology
    26.1. Overview
    26.2. Admission requirements
    26.3. Honours Coordinator
    26.4. Duration and Commencement of Course
    26.5. Hurdle Assessment Requirements
        26.5.1. Components of Assessment
        26.5.2. Advanced Coursework Subject
        26.5.3. Research Project Subject
27. Department of Zoology
    27.1. Overview
    27.2. Admission requirements
    27.3. Honours Coordinators
    27.4. Duration and commencement of course
    27.5. Assessment
        27.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements
        27.5.2. Components of assessment
            27.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject
            27.5.2.2. Research Project subject
    27.6. Further information

 1. General Faculty information about Honours

 1.1. Course overview

Honours is an extremely valuable year of study. It comprises advanced 400-level coursework and an individual research project designed to extend students' knowledge and skills. In particular, the Honours programs offered by the Faculty of Science aim to enable students to define and solve problems relating to their speciality and to conduct research in the field.

Honours graduates possess the skills and qualifications needed to progress to a higher degree (e.g. Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy), or to enter the science and technology industries.

The Faculty offers two Honours courses, these are:

 1.2. Bachelor of Science (Honours) disciplines available

The Faculty of Science offers Bachelor of Science (Honours) programs in a wide range of disciplines including:

Anatomy and Cell Biology; Applied Statistics; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Botany; Chemistry; Computer Science; Earth Sciences; Engineering; Genetics; Geography and Environmental Studies; History and Philosophy of Science; Mathematics and Statistics; Medical Biology; Medicine*; Microbiology and Immunology; Optometry & Vision Sciences; Oral Biology (Dental Science); Otolaryngology; Paediatrics; Pathology; Pharmacology; Physics; Physiology; Psychiatry; Psychology; Surgery*; Surveying; and Zoology. Some combined programs are also available.

* Available at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Austin and Repatriation Hospitals

 1.3. Admission requirements

To be eligible to enter Honours you must satisfy both the Faculty of Science entry requirements and the requirements of the department offering the Honours program you wish to undertake. If you are interested in applying for an Honours program it is critical to consider these requirements when planning your undergraduate course.

 1.3.1. Faculty of Science entry requirements

 1.3.1.1. Faculty Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Honours Program

There are two Faculty entry requirements which must be satisfied.

  1. Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Arts and Sciences (BASc) or equivalent qualification recognised by the Faculty of Science.

    The only exception to the above is for those applicants currently enrolled in a BSc combined course at the University of Melbourne. These applicants need to have completed at least 300 points, within which the requirements of the Bachelor of Science degree need to have been satisfied.

  2. Graduates of the University of Melbourne BSc single degree must have a Faculty Honours Score of at least 65%. The Faculty Honours Score is a weighted average based on a student's performance in their best 87.5 points of science study at the 300-level.

    A Faculty Honours Score is not calculated for University of Melbourne Bachelor of Arts and Sciences (BASc) or BSc combined course students. For these students the Faculty calculates a weighted average mark for the 300-level science subjects that have been completed. A weighted average of 65% or more is usually required for entry into Honours.

    Applicants who have completed their degree at other institutions must demonstrate that they have achieved an average of 65% for the third year science subjects they have studied. Original academic transcripts will need to be presented.

 1.3.1.2. Faculty Requirements for the Bachelor of Information Systems Honours Program

Admission to the BIS (Hons) requires the completion of a degree specialising in Information Systems, or a related field that is recognised by the Faculty of Science.

Graduates of the University of Melbourne BIS degree need to have obtained an average minimum result of 65% for at least 62.5 points of 300-level Information Systems subjects.

Applicants who have completed their degree at other institutions must demonstrate that they have achieved an average of 65% for the third year Information Systems subjects, or related subjects, they have studied.

 1.3.2. Departmental requirements

Departments usually require the completion of certain 300-level subjects, and/or a minimum number of 300-level points from a particular department, to be eligible for entry into their Honours program. These requirements are specified in the departmental entries that follow.

 1.4. Duration and commencement of the course

Honours usually involves one year of full-time study between February and November. Some departments offer a two year part-time Honours program and some offer mid-year commencement. Further details are provided in the departmental entries that follow.

 1.5. Structure of the course

 1.5.1. Bachelor of Science Honours program

The Bachelor of Science Honours program involves the completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject. The relative weighting of these subjects varies between departments.

The Advanced Coursework subject may entail 400-level lectures and tutorials, journal clubs, literature reviews, oral presentations, and other departmental activities. In some departments students enrol in a number of advanced coursework subjects. Students will need to achieve at least 65% for each advanced coursework subject they undertake as part of their BSc (Hons) course. The Research Project subject comprises a research project completed under the guidance of an academic who specialises in your area of interest.

Students' academic transcripts will record a separate result for each Advanced Coursework subject they undertake as part of the BSc (Hons) course, and the Research Project subject.

Refer to the departmental entries that follow for more information.

 1.5.2. Bachelor of Information Systems Honours program

This Honours program involves the completion of four equally weighted Advanced Coursework subjects and a Research Project subject. Students' academic transcripts will record individual results for the Research Project subject and the four Advanced Coursework subjects. Refer to the Department of Information Systems entry that follows for further details.

 1.6. Course requirements

 1.6.1. Bachelor of Science Honours program

In order to be awarded an Honours qualification, students enrolled in the BSc (Hons) must obtain a minimum mark of 65% for both the Research Project subject and each Advanced Coursework subject they complete as part of the BSc (Hons) course.

Some departments have other hurdle requirements. These are specified in the departmental entries that follow.

 1.6.2. Bachelor of Information Systems Honours program

In order to be awarded the BIS (Hons) qualification, students must obtain a minimum mark of 65% for the Research Project subject and each of the four Advanced Coursework subjects. The departmental hurdle requirements must also be satisfied (see Department of Information Systems entry that follows).

 1.7. Variations to Honours candidature

The critical dates and penalties (e.g. HECS charges, withdrawn results etc.) that apply to enrolment changes are specified in the General Introduction at the front of this handbook.

 1.7.1. Deferment

The Faculty of Science does not allow students who have been offered a place in Honours to defer commencement of the course. Students will need to advise the relevant department in writing that they are unable to accept the course offer and reapply for a place in the Honours program at a later stage.

 1.7.2. Leave of absence

Leave from the Honours program is possible in exceptional circumstances only.

Students wishing to apply for leave from the Honours program must complete a Variation to Enrolment form (available from the Faculty of Science Office). The Variation to Enrolment form must:

The Department will need to ensure that it will be possible for the student to continue with their Honours program at the agreed time, by checking that appropriate supervision and coursework subjects will be available at the time the student wishes to return from leave.

The standard period of leave from Honours is a minimum of one semester and a maximum of two semesters.

 1.8. Application procedure

 1.9. Further information about Honours Programs

Please contact the Honours Coordinator in the department/s of your choice for further information. The Honours contacts for each department are specified in the Honours entries that follow.

Note that departments generally hold an Honours information session in September or October each year. Contact the Honours Coordinators for further details regarding the times and venues of these sessions.

 2. Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology

The Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology offers two distinct Honours programs. These programs are:

These programs are described below.

 2.1. Anatomy and Cell Biology Honours Program

 2.1.1. Overview

Students undertake a research project supervised by a member of staff. Project topics are available from the Departmental Office on Level 7 or on the website http://www.anatomy.unimelb.edu.au/postgraduate/honours00.htm

Students consult directly with supervisors to ensure suitability of project. Laboratory-based research is the main component of the Honours program, culminating in the submission of a thesis and laboratory notebooks detailing experiments. This program offers the opportunity to acquire modern technical and theoretical skills. Students attend research seminars, journal clubs and orally defend their thesis.

 2.1.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Anatomy and Cell Biology Honours program need to obtain an H3 or better for at least one 300-level Anatomy and Cell Biology subject. This requirement may be waived by the Head of Department.

 2.1.3. Honours Coordinator

Associate Professor Tony Goodwin

 2.1.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.

 2.1.5. Assessment

 2.1.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Students enrolled in the Anatomy and Cell Biology Honours program must also attend lectures, workshops and seminars.

 2.1.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 2.1.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

Lectures, and workshops in a wide range of biomedical areas such as animal welfare, library resources, experimental design and statistical analysis, writing skills and seminar preparation. Seminars in biomedical research. Students will be assessed by a literature review (20%), a journal article review (20%), statistics assignments (20%) and an oral defence of the thesis (40%).

 2.1.5.4. Research Project subject

Students considering enrolling for the Honours program in Anatomy and Cell Biology should discuss their plans with a senior member of staff in the area of their special interest, or with the coordinator. Most of the subject is spent conducting an original, supervised research project. Students will give a talk on the aims and methods of the research project during the year. Assessment will consist of a written report (thesis) submitted at the end of the program (100%).

 2.1.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 2.2. Topographic Anatomy Honours program

 2.2.1. Overview

This Honours program is designed for students with a major concentration of undergraduate studies in topographic anatomy. Students undertake a research project in topographic anatomy supervised by a member of staff and have the opportunity to become familiar with advanced research and preparative techniques in anatomy. Students will also acquire skills in the preparation and display of anatomical specimens and in the development of interactive computer programs in anatomy.

 2.2.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Topographic Anatomy Honours program need to have completed: 516-201 Histology; 516-202 Human Embryology; 516-204 Anatomy 1 - Back, Thorax and Upper Limb; 516-207 Anatomy 2 - Abdomen, Pelvis and Lower Limb; 516-303 Anatomy of the Head and Neck; 516-304 Functional and Applied Anatomy. These requirements may be waived by the Head of Department.

 2.2.3. Honours Coordinator

Associate Professor Chris Briggs

 2.2.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.

 2.2.5. Assessment

 2.2.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Students enrolled in the Topographic Anatomy Honours program must also attend lectures, workshops and seminars.

 2.2.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 2.2.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

Lectures, seminars and practical work in preparative techniques. Lectures and seminars in applied anatomical and biomedical research. Lectures and workshops in areas such as development of interactive computer learning programs, library resources, experimental design and statistical analysis, writing skills and seminar preparation. Students will be assessed by workshop reports, assignments and displays of anatomical specimens (70%), a literature review (10%), a journal review (10%) and an exam in statistics (10%).

 2.2.5.4. Research Project subject

Students will undertake a supervised research project and give a talk on the aims and methods of the research project during the year. Assessment will consist of a written report (thesis) submitted at the end of the project (80%) and an oral defence of the thesis (20%).

 2.2.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 3. Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology offers the following Honours programs:

 3.1. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Honours program

 3.1.1. Overview

By the end of the Honours program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology the student should have:

 3.1.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Honours program need to have completed a minimum of 50 points of 300-level in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Provision is made for a limited number of exceptions to this entry requirement.

 3.1.3. Honours Coordinator

Dr Malcolm McConville (Biochemistry)

 3.1.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There may be a limited mid-year intake.

 3.1.5. Assessment

 3.1.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

 3.1.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 3.1.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

The Advanced Coursework subject accounts for 25% of the total assessment. It comprises four subjects of six lectures each. Assessment of these may be by assignment, oral presentation or open book examination. The aim is to encourage a detailed and critical examination of recent advances in selected fields of biochemical and molecular biology research.

 3.1.5.4. Research Project subject

The Research Project subject accounts for 75% of the total assessment. It comprises a research report (65%) and presentation of a seminar (10%).

 3.1.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 3.2. Combined Biochemistry and Chemistry (Biochemistry coursework) Honours Program

 3.2.1. Overview

This Honours program in Biochemistry and Chemistry is designed to:

 3.2.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the combined Chemistry and Biochemistry Honours program will normally have obtained a Faculty Honours score of 65% or above, in 87.5 points of their 300-level studies and have specialised in either Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (300-level subjects) or Chemistry (300-level subjects). Applicants who have specialised in Chemistry need to have completed two of the following core 300-level subjects: 610-310 Physical Chemistry (or 610-311 + 610-315), 610-320 Organic Chemistry (or 610-321 + 610-325), and 610-340 Inorganic Chemistry (or 610-341 + 610-345). The qualifications of applicants from other institutions will be considered by the Head of School.

 3.2.3. Honours Coordinators

Dr Malcolm McConville (Biochemistry)

Head of School (Chemistry)

 3.2.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program runs either from February to November or July to June.

 3.2.5. Assessment

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Students enrolled in the combined Chemistry and Biochemistry Honours program must also pass a 'Safety in the Laboratory' course.

 3.2.5.1. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 3.2.5.2. Advanced Coursework subject

The Advanced Coursework subject accounts for 25% of the total assessment. It comprises four subjects of six lectures each. Assessment of these may be by assignment, oral presentation or open book examination. The aim is to encourage a detailed and critical examination of recent advances in selected fields of biochemical and molecular biology research.

 3.2.5.3. Research Project subject

This subject comprises an original research project, supervised by one academic staff member from each of the schools of Biochemistry and Chemistry. The research project continues throughout the year.

The Research Project subject accounts for 75% of the total assessment. It comprises a research report (65%) and presentation of a seminar (10%).

 3.2.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 4. Department of Botany

 4.1. Overview

The Honours program in Botany involves:

The course provides students with skills in original research in plant science, develops capacity for critical thinking and evaluation of information, instills knowledge across wide areas of plant sciences, and enhances communication skills.

 4.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Botany Honours program need to complete 50 or more points of 300-level Botany, or equivalent in a related field (e.g. plant biochemistry, plant genetics or environmental sciences). The Head of Department may waive the prerequisites or stipulate additional requirements.

 4.3. Honours Coordinator

Dr Geoff McFadden

 4.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program runs either from February to November or July to June.

 4.5. Assessment

 4.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject and participate in other training courses.

 4.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 4.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject

The Advanced Coursework subject accounts for 25% of the total assessment based on three components:

 4.5.2.2. Research Project subject

The Research Project subject comprises:

 4.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 5. School of Chemistry

The School of Chemistry offers the following Honours programs:

 5.1. Chemistry Honours program

 5.1.1. Overview

The Honours program in Chemistry is designed to:

 5.1.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Chemistry Honours program need to complete 50 or more points of 300-level Chemistry. Applicants need to have completed two of the following core 300-level subjects: 610-310 Physical Chemistry (or 610-311 + 610-315), 610-320 Organic Chemistry (or 610-321 + 610-325), and 610-340 Inorganic Chemistry (or 610-341 + 610-345). The qualifications of applicants from other institutions will be considered by the Head of School.

 5.1.3. Honours Coordinator

Head of School

 5.1.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. Enrolment in the program is possible between either February and November or July and June.

 5.1.5. Assessment

 5.1.5.1. Hurdle Assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Students enrolled in the Chemistry Honours program must also:

 5.1.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 5.1.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

Students select five lecture subjects. Each of these subjects will be examined by: formal written examination; examination and assignment; or assignment alone, and may be examined during or at the end of Semester 1. All five lecture subjects are of equal value, each one contributing up to one fifth of the total marks available for the Advanced Coursework subject.

 5.1.5.4. Research Project subject

The Research Project subject involves the completion of:

 5.1.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 5.2. Combined Chemistry and Biochemistry (Chemistry coursework) Honours Program

 5.2.1. Overview

This Honours program in Chemistry and Biochemistry is designed to:

 5.2.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Chemistry and Biochemistry Honours program need to have specialised in either Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (300-level subjects) or Chemistry (300-level subjects). Applicants who have specialised in Chemistry need to have completed two of the following core 300-level subjects: 610-310 Physical Chemistry (or 610-311 + 610-315), 610-320 Organic Chemistry (or 610-321 + 610-325) and 610-340 Inorganic Chemistry (or 610-341 + 610-345). The qualifications of applicants from other institutions will be considered by the Head of School.

Entry will usually be restricted to students who have satisfied Faculty of Science rules.

 5.2.3. Honours Coordinators

Head of School of Chemistry

Dr Malcolm McConville (Biochemistry)

 5.2.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program runs either from February to November or July to June.

 5.2.5. Assessment

 5.2.5.1. Hurdle Assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Students enrolled in this combined Chemistry and Biochemistry Honours program must also:

 5.2.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects must be taken concurrently. Their relative weightings are as follows:

 5.2.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

Students select five lecture subjects. Each of these subjects will be examined by: formal written examination; examination and assignment; or assignment alone, and may be examined during or at the end of Semester 1. All five lecture subjects are of equal value, each one contributing up to one fifth of the total marks available for the Advanced Coursework subject.

 5.2.5.4. Research Project subject

This subject comprises an original research project, supervised by one academic staff member from each of the schools of Biochemistry and Chemistry. The research project continues throughout the year.

The Research Project subject involves the completion of:

 5.2.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 5.3. Combined Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (Chemistry coursework) Honours Program

 5.3.1. Overview

The BSc Honours course in Chemical Engineering is designed to:

 5.3.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in this Honours program need to have completed 50 or more points of 300-level Chemistry which must include two of the following core subjects: 610-310 Physical Chemistry (or 610-311 + 610-315), 610-320 Organic Chemistry (or 610-321 + 610-325), and 610-340 Inorganic Chemistry (or 610-341 + 610-345).

The qualifications of student applicants from other institutions will be considered by the Head of the School of Chemistry and the Head of Department of Chemical Engineering.

 5.3.3. Honours Coordinator

Head of School of Chemistry

Head of Department of Chemical Engineering

 5.3.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.

 5.3.5. Assessment

 5.3.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Students enrolled in this Honours program need to attend and satisfactorily complete the course 'Safety in the Laboratory'. Students who don't reach the required standard will have to complete an additional study program and reassessment. A pass in the 'Safety in Laboratory' course is required before students can start the research project and the advanced lecture course.

 5.3.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 5.3.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

Students select five lecture subjects. Each of these subjects will be examined by: formal written examination; examination and assignment; or assignment alone, and may be examined during or at the end of Semester 1. All five lecture subjects are of equal value, each one contributing up to one fifth of the total marks available for the Advanced Coursework subject.

 5.3.5.4. Research Project subject

The Research Project subject involves the completion of an original research project, supervised by an academic staff member from the Department of Chemical Engineering.

 5.3.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 6. Department of Computer Science

The Department of Computer Science offers the following Honours programs:

The Computer Science program is described below.

 6.1. Overview

The Honours program in Computer Science is designed to:

 6.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Computer Science Honours program must:

Note: While 50 points of 300-level study in Computer Science is the minimum for entry to BSc (Hons), students should note that the 400-level Honours subjects offered by the Department have individual prerequisites that may not be satisfied by some combinations of 50 points of 300-level subjects. Students wishing to retain a wide range of options at the 400-level are advised to select at least four of: 433-303 Artificial Intelligence; 433-330 Theory of Computation; 433-332 Operating Systems; 433-341 Software Engineering Process and Practice; 433-351 Database Systems; 433-361 Programming Language Implementation; and 433-380 Graphics and Computation.

Students should also note that study of Mathematics or Statistics at the second year level is strongly recommended.

Students from other institutions and other backgrounds should contact the Honours Coordinator to determine their eligibility for entry to the BSc (Hons) course.

 6.3. Honours Coordinator

Dr Lee Naish

 6.4. Duration and commencement of course

The BSc (Hons) program in Computer Science can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, commencing in either late February or mid-July each year. The program requires one year of full-time study, or two years of part-time study.

 6.5. Assessment

 6.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% in subjects totalling 100 points, including 433-401 Computer Science Research Project.

Students enrolled in the Computer Science Honours program are also expected to have a satisfactory level of attendance at departmental seminars.

Students will be advised of hurdle requirements for the individual coursework subjects at the commencement of each subject.

 6.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and five Advanced Coursework subjects. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

The final Honours grade is the weighted average mark over the 100 points included in these two components. Students who complete more than 62.5 points of their advanced coursework will have their final Honours grade calculated as their weighted average mark over the 100 points of study obtained by including their best 62.5 points of Advanced Coursework.

Students are required to obtain a mark of 65% or greater in all subjects to be credited towards their BSc (Hons) degree, including in 433-401 Computer Science Research Project.

 6.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subjects

The following 400-level subjects are offered to students enrolled in the BSc (Hons) degree:

Students may enrol in one 300-level subject in Computer Science as part of their coursework component, and as many as two of the following 600-level postgraduate subjects taught by the Department:

For details of these subjects, see the Faculty of Engineering Postgraduate Handbook, contact the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, or visit the departmental website at http://www.cs.mu.oz.au

Students should note that in any given year the Department may choose not to offer one or more of the pool of 400- and 600-level subjects. Students are advised to make contact with the Department late in the previous year to determine if particular subjects will be available.

Students are reminded that the minimum mark to obtain credit for subjects counted towards BSc (Hons) is 65%.

 6.5.2.2. Research Project subject

In addition to the advanced coursework, students must complete a total of 37.5 points of enrolment in the subject 433-401 Computer Science Research Project. In any given semester this subject may be weighted as 12.5, 25 or 37.5 points, depending upon the other subjects being undertaken that semester, and whether the student is full- or part-time. A CNT mark (continuing) will be assigned to this subject until an aggregate of 37.5 points of enrolment has been reached.

The Computer Science Research Project subject comprises a research report of up to 40 pages (20,000 words) and an oral presentation not exceeding 30 minutes. Students are required to obtain a mark of at least 65% in this subject.

 6.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 7. School of Earth Sciences

 7.1. Overview

The Honours program in Earth Sciences is designed to prepare students for both industry employment and for further research. Emphasis is placed on individual research and professional presentation of results. The program includes at least fifteen days of Advanced Coursework, a literature review of your chosen research field and a written and oral report about your research project.

The Honours program offered by the School of Earth Sciences allows specialisation in the following areas: Geology; Geophysics; Atmosphere & Ocean Sciences; and Environmental Earth Sciences. The departmental entry requirements for these areas differ (see the Admission Requirements section that follows for details).

 7.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering Honours programs in Earth Sciences disciplines must have achieved the following:

 7.3. Honours Coordinator

Associate Professor Roger Powell

 7.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. A mid-year intake is dependent on availability of supervisors and would generally begin in July-August and finish in March-April.

 7.5. Assessment

 7.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Students enrolled in the Earth Sciences Honours program must also attend information sessions, special lectures and relevant presentations in the School's seminar program.

 7.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 7.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject

The Advanced Coursework subject comprises fifteen or sixteen days of specialist short courses chosen to complement the student's area of research. These advanced courses are chosen from the Victorian Institute of Earth and Planetary Science joint curriculum taught by The University of Melbourne, Monash University and La Trobe University. Thirty courses are usually offered, ranging from two days to one week in duration.

 7.5.2.2. Research Project subject

The Research Project subject comprises a scientific research report, a literature review and an oral presentation. Students will devote considerable attention to the writing and presentation of the research. Clear identification of objectives, evaluation of the methodologies adopted and critical appraisal of the results obtained form important aspects of the report.

 7.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 8. Department of Genetics

 8.1. Overview

Students enrolled in the Honours program in the Department of Genetics complete a Research Project and Advanced Coursework. The program allows students to acquire skills in analysing and evaluating data, and communicating scientific information in both written and oral presentations.

The Research Project aims to develop a range of experimental and technical skills, a capacity to set goals and to design and plan experiments. Apart from the help and guidance from their supervisor(s) each student also has a Committee which regularly meets with them and provides additional help and expertise. This Committee is responsible for assessment of the Research Project subject.

The Advanced Coursework comprises sets of lectures in various areas of genetics, journal clubs where published papers are analysed and discussed, and written exercises.

 8.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Genetics Honours program need to complete at least 50 points of 300-level Genetics. The 300-level subjects should include 652-301 Ecological & Evolutionary Genetics, 652-302 Molecular Genetics and 652-304 Genetic Analysis, and one or more subjects selected from 652-303 Developmental and Cellular Genetics, 652-305 Human Genetics and 652-306 Experimental Genetics. However in special circumstances, particularly where relevant 300-level practical subjects in other biological disciplines have been completed, the requirements may be waived by the Head of Department.

 8.3. Honours Coordinator

Dr L Kelly

 8.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.

 8.5. Assessment

 8.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

 8.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

For information about the weighting of the components of assessment within the Research Project subject and within the Advanced Coursework subject, please contact the Department of Genetics at the start of the Honours program.

 8.5.2.1. Advanced Coursework subject

The Advanced Coursework subject comprises a critical appraisal of the literature relevant to the Research Project (up to 3000 words) and up to four written exercises based on the lecture topics.

 8.5.2.2. Research Project subject

The Research Project subject comprises a research report of 40 pages (excluding figures, tables and appendices), a research talk, and an assessment of research performance.

 8.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 9. Department of Geography and Environmental Studies

 9.1. Overview

For many students Honours is the most exciting and valuable year at university. Working with individual supervision and following up their special interests enables students to develop their research and writing techniques and apply the knowledge gained in earlier years of undergraduate study to the solution of real problems.

The Honours program in Geography provides an opportunity for students to carry out a small individual Research Project under the supervision of a staff member who is an expert in a related part of the discipline. Examples of Honours theses in recent years include an investigation of Aboriginal trails in East Gippsland; greenhouse gases and the paper industry; South Korean industrial development; paleoecological studies in Northern Tasmania; and the use of rainwater tanks in Melbourne.

During the Honours program, students also complete advanced coursework and a review of the literature relevant to their research area, attend a series of seminars and workshops about the philosophy and scope of the discipline, and give a short presentation about their research findings.

At the end of the program, Honours graduates can either seek employment, well equipped with the skills demanded by today's employers, or they can apply for a scholarship to enable them to proceed to postgraduate study at the University of Melbourne or other universities.

 9.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Geography Honours program need to:

Students who have completed a specialisation in Environmental Science may also be eligible for entry to the Geography Honours program.

 9.3. Honours Coordinator

Dr Barbara Downes

 9.4. Duration and commencement of course

Honours in Geography and Environmental Studies may be undertaken on either a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered subject to the approval of the Department.

Honours students are strongly advised to commence discussions with their supervisor and to start work on their research projects as early as possible.

 9.5. Assessment

 9.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Students enrolled in the Geography Honours program must also:

 9.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 9.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

The Advanced Coursework subject comprises the following:

 9.5.4. Research Project subject

The Research Project subject comprises original research on a problem selected in consultation with a supervisor and the Head of the Department, and involves regular meetings with the supervisor.

Students must submit a research report of up to 12,000 words (50% of the total mark for Honours).

 9.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

A detailed information booklet is available from the Department Office [PH: (03) 9344 6339].

 10. Department of History and Philosophy of Science

 10.1. Overview

Honours study in History and Philosophy of Science provides training at an advanced level in various aspects of the discipline, and prepares students with requisite background to proceed to postgraduate research.

 10.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the History and Philosophy of Science Honours program need to complete:

 10.3. Honours Coordinator

Dr Helen Verran

 10.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program may be undertaken on either a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June. Students are advised to commence their supervised Research Projects during the non-instruction periods.

 10.5. Assessment

 10.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

 10.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 10.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

The Advanced coursework subject requires completion of four semester length Honours level seminars, chosen from the Department's Honours/Postgraduate subject offerings.

 10.5.4. Research Project subject

The Research Project subject requires completion of an approximately 15,000 word Honours thesis on an approved topic, carried out under the supervision of a member of the Department.

 10.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 11. Department of Information Systems

 11.1. Overview

The Honours program in the Department of Information Systems is designed to:

 11.2. Admission requirements

Admission is normally available to students who have undertaken a degree in Information Systems, or a related field, with a 65% average in at least 62.5 points (or five subjects) of 300-level Information Systems or an equivalent level of studies.

These requirements may be waived, on a case by case basis, by the Faculty after considering a rationale presented by the Head of Department.

For University of Melbourne graduates, the standard path to the Bachelor of Information Systems (Honours) program is via either the Bachelor of Information Systems degree or a combined courses.

 11.3. Honours Coordinator

Associate Professor Graeme Shanks

 11.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. A mid-year intake may be available to part-time students.

 11.5. Assessment

 11.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students need to obtain a minimum of 65% for the subject 615-496 Information Systems Research and each of the four Advanced Coursework subjects. See the hurdle assessment requirements listed for 615-496 Information Systems Research Project below.

 11.5.2. Components of assessment

The Bachelor of Information Systems (Honours) program entails the completion of:

The marks achieved for 615-496 Information Systems Research Project subject and each of the advanced coursework subject will be recorded on the student's academic transcript. Students will also receive an overall mark for the course.

 11.5.3. 615-496 Information Systems Research Project

This subject requires weekly meetings with a supervisor and the completion of a research project. The research project usually involves an empirical study.

The hurdle assessment requirements for 615-496 Information Systems Research Project are:

The assessed item for 615-496 Information Systems Reserach Project is a written research report, of up to 12,000 words, submitted at the end of the subject.

 11.5.4. Advanced Coursework subjects

As mentioned above, students complete four Advanced Coursework subjects. Students will need to devote about 7 hours per week for each subject to complete the required reading plus three hours class-time per week. Students will also need to allow additional time for the reading required for 615-496 Information Systems Research Project.

Two of the four advanced coursework subjects are compulsory. The compulsory subjects are titled 615-610 Research Methods in Information Systems and 615-611 Themes in Information Systems Research. As the titles imply, these subjects increase students' understanding of the current Information Systems literature and effective Information Systems research methodologies.

The remaining two advanced coursework subjects are chosen from a range of advanced coursework subjects. Information about these subjects is available on the web (http://www.dis.unimelb.edu.au) or from the Department of Information Systems Office.

 11.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact:

 12. Department of Mathematics and Statistics

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers the following Honours programs:

Information about these programs is provided below.

After completing Honours, graduates wishing to pursue a non-academic career will have the advantage of the experience of project work and directed research not usually provided by a pass degree. Students interested in further academic work will be well placed for entry into postgraduate programs at The University of Melbourne or other world class institutions.

 12.1. Mathematics and Statistics Honours Program

 12.1.1. Overview

The Honours program in Mathematics and Statistics is designed to train graduates in advanced mathematics and statistics topics and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research. The program involves completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject.

 12.1.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Mathematics and Statistics Honours program need to have attained an H3 or better in at least four 300-level Mathematics/Statistics subjects. Students who do not meet these requirements, but who have achieved very good results in other areas, may be considered for entry to Honours on the recommendation of the Head of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

Prospective Honours students should consult the following table for guidelines to selecting their 300-level Mathematics/Statistics subjects. If only four 300-level Mathematics/Statistics subjects are taken, the subject 620-351 Number Theory should not be included and at most one of 620-352 Graph Theory and 620-381 Computational Mathematics should be included. The number of options available at the 400-level is restricted when only four 300-level Mathematics/Statistics subjects have been taken.

To retain the widest possible choice of Honours options, students are recommended to include the following subjects in second year: 620-221 Real & Complex Analysis or 620-252 Analysis, 620-231 Vector Analysis, and at least two of 620-201 Probability, 620-202 Statistics, 620-222 Linear & Abstract Algebra, 620-232 Mathematical Methods, 620-261 Introduction to Operations Research.

 Table 35: Fourth Year Mathematics and Statistics Honours: Suggested 300-level specialisation subjects

Algebra  

620-311*, 620-312, 620-321*, 620-322*, 620-351  

Analysis  

620-311*, 620-312*, 620-321, 620-322, 620-331, 620-332  

Applied Statistics  

620-301, 620-302, 620-371*, 620-372*, 620-382  

Geometry and Topology  

620-311*, 620-312, 620-321*, 620-322*  

Mathematical Physics  

620-331, 620-332, 620-341*, 620-342, 620-352  

Methods and Applications  

620-331*, 620-332*, 620-341, 620-342*, 620-381  

Optimisation  

620-311, 620-312, 620-361*, 620-362  

Probability and Stochastic Processes  

620-301*, 620-302*, 620-311, 620-312, 620-371, 620-372, 620-382  

* Prerequisites for specialisation.

For 1997 Handbook prerequisites see the coordinators.

 12.1.3. Honours Coordinators

Dr J R J Groves

Dr K Sharpe

 12.1.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.

 12.1.5. Assessment

 12.1.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the Department and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. It is therefore expected that students will attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. Students are also expected to give an oral presentation about their Research Project.

 12.1.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 12.1.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

All Mathematics and Statistics Honours students must complete six of the subjects listed in the Mathematics and Statistics Honours Guide. The Honours Guide is updated every year and is available from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics Office.

Each subject is one semester in length and comprises twenty-four lectures (usually two per week), some or all of which may be replaced by seminars, guided reading or project work. Full-time students usually undertake four subjects in the first semester and two subjects in the second semester.

Eight streams are offered: Algebra, Analysis, Applied Statistics, Geometry and Topology, Methods and Modelling, Mathematical Physics, Operations Research, Probability and Stochastic Processes. Each stream offers three subjects, two of which will usually be available in Semester 1 and one in Semester 2. Students usually take at least two subjects from two different streams, one of which will normally be in the same stream as that of the research project.

For all subjects, up to forty pages of written assignments and up to three hours of written and/or oral examinations are required. Any student may, with permission, study and be assessed in more than six subjects. In determining the final grade, only the best six subjects will be considered.

 12.1.5.4. Research Project subject

A list of the research interests of the Department is outlined in the departmental research report available from the Mathematics and Statistics Office. Intending Honours students should approach individual staff members to discuss possible research projects. Any difficulties in reaching decisions about research topics should be discussed with the Honours coordinator. Preliminary reading should commence in the first month of the program, with the bulk of the project being completed in the second half of the program.

Assessment of the Research Project will consider: clarity and exposition; mathematical insight; coverage of field and references. Honours students will be required to give two seminars before their results are finalised.

 12.1.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact the Honours Coordinators [PH: (03) 9344 5552].

 12.2. Applied Statistics Honours Program

 12.2.1. Overview

The Honours program in Applied Statistics is designed to train graduates in applications of statistical methods, with supporting studies in theoretical statistics and stochastic processes. The program also aims to:

The Applied Statistics Honours program is more accessible than the Honours program in Mathematics and Statistics to students who have a restricted mathematics background, but have some experience at 200-level or 300-level in Economics and Commerce, the biological sciences, or social sciences.

The program involves completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject.

 12.2.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, entry usually requires an H3 or better in at least four third year subjects offered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. These subjects must include 620-371 Linear Models and 620-372 Inference and Applied Statistics.

Students who do not meet the requirements, but who have achieved very good results in other areas, may be considered for entry on the recommendation of the Coordinator and the Head of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

 12.2.3. Honours Coordinator

Dr K. Sharpe

 12.2.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.

 12.2.5. Assessment

 12.2.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the Department and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. They are also expected to give an oral presentation about their Research Project.

The Research Project subject consists of a research project under the supervision of a staff member in an area of statistics approved by the subject coordinator. Students are expected to submit a detailed outline of their Research Project by the end of their first semester of Honours level study.

 12.2.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 12.2.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

Students select seven of the subjects offered through the Key Centre for Statistical Sciences (KCSS) at La Trobe University, Monash University, RMIT and The University of Melbourne. Each subject comprises a total of twenty-four hours of lectures, presented in one two-hour session per week, during either first or second semester. The subjects are detailed in the KCSS booklet available from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics Office.

Subject selection requires departmental approval. In some cases, approval may be given to substitute subjects of comparable standard from other areas such as Mathematics and Statistics, Economics and Computer Science.

The assessment of the Advanced Coursework subject entails assignments (up to 50 pages) and a 2 two-hour written exam for each of the seven KCSS subjects. Examinations are held at the end of each semester. All KCSS subjects are of equal weight.

 12.2.5.4. Research Project subject

This subject comprises a Research Project completed under the supervision of a staff member in an area of statistics approved by the subject coordinator.

The assessment comprises:

 12.2.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact the Honours Coordinator [PH: (03) 9344 5552].

 12.3. Combined Mathematics and Statistics/Physics Honours Program

 12.3.1. Overview

This Honours program is available only in consultation with the Honours Coordinators of both Mathematics/Statistics and Physics. It is designed to train graduates in advanced Mathematics/Statistics and Physics topics, and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research.

The program involves completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject.

 12.3.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students should plan a course of study that is approved by both the Mathematics/Statistics and Physics Honours coordinators. An H3 average will be required in the subjects that are prerequisites for the Honours level subjects the student plans to study.

 12.3.3. Honours Coordinators

Dr J R J Groves (Mathematics and Statistics)

Dr L Hollenberg (Physics)

 12.3.4. Duration and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June.

 12.3.5. Assessment

 12.3.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the departments and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. They are also expected to give an oral presentation about their Research Project.

Students are expected to submit a detailed outline of their Research Project by the end of their first semester of Honours study.

 12.3.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:

 12.3.5.3. Advanced Coursework subject

Students should establish with the Honours Coordinators the relative weighting of each piece of Mathematics and Statistics or Physics work that is required for this subject.

 12.3.5.4. Research Project subject

The project is marked by two examiners appointed by the coordinators, taking into account clarity and exposition, insight demonstrated, coverage of the field and references.

 12.3.6. Further information

If you require further information about this Honours program please contact the Honours Coordinators [PH: (03) 9344 5552].

 12.4. Combined Mathematics and Statistics/Computer Science Honours Program

 12.4.1. Overview

This Honours program is available only in consultation with the Honours Coordinators of both Mathematics/Statistics and Computer Science. It is designed to train graduates in advanced Mathematics/Statistics and Computer Science topics, and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research.

The program involves completion of an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject.

 12.4.2. Admission requirements

In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students should plan a course of study that is approved by both the Mathematics/Statistics and Computer Science Honours coordinators and have completed the prerequisite subjects with at least an H3 average.

 12.4.3. Honours Coordinators

Dr J R J Groves (Mathematics and Statistics)

Dr. P Stuckey (Computer Science)

 12.4.4. Duration of Course and commencement of course

This particular Honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program runs either from February to November or July to June.

 12.4.5. Assessment

 12.4.5.1. Hurdle assessment requirements

Students enrolled in Honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% for both the Research Project subject and the Advanced Coursework subject.

Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the departments and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. They are also expected to give an oral presentation about their Research Project.

 12.4.5.2. Components of assessment

Honours comprises a Research Project subject and an Advanced Coursework subject. These