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2O11INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS
POSTGRADUATE STUDIES
BIOETHICS CENTREDIVISION OF HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER OF HEALTH SCIENCES (ENDORSED IN BIOETHICS)
MHealSc(Bioethics)
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN HEALTH SCIENCES
(ENDORSED IN BIOETHICS) PGDipHealSc(Bioethics)
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
General Information for Applicants
∗ Admission to the Programme 3 ∗ Application Process 3 ∗ Official University of Otago Enrolment and Fees 4 ∗ Official Dates for Completion of the Enrolment Process 4
Regulations: Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (endorsed in Bioethics) (PGDipHealSc(Bioethics))
∗ Admission to the Course 5 ∗ Structure of the Programme 5 ∗ Duration of the Programme 5 ∗ Level of the Award of the Diploma 5 ∗ Variations 5 ∗ Schedule of Papers of the Degree 6
Regulations: Degree of Master of Heath Sciences (endorsed in Bioethics) (MHealSc(Bioethics))
∗ Admission to the Course 7 ∗ Structure of the Course 7 ∗ Duration of the Course 8 ∗ Examination of the Thesis 8 ∗ Level of the Award of the Degree 8 ∗ Variations 8 ∗ Schedule of Papers of the Degree 9
Details of Bioethics papers for the MHealSc(Bioethics) and PGDipHealSc(Bioethics)
∗ BITX 401: Theories of Biomedical Ethics 10 ∗ BITX 403: Issues in Law, Ethics and Medicine 10 ∗ BITX 404: Ethics and Health Care 10 ∗ BITX 405 Bioethics in Clinical Practice 11 ∗ BITX 406 Health Research Ethics 11 ∗ BITX 407 Advanced Health Research Ethics 11 ∗ BITC 410: Special Topic 12 ∗ BITC 411: Special Topic 12 ∗ BITC 412: Special Topic 12
Appendix 1: Application Form - PGDipHealSc(Bioethics) 14 Application Form - MHealSc(Bioethics) 17
Appendix 2: Guidance Notes on MHealSc(Bioethics) thesis ∗ Scope and objectives of thesis 21 ∗ Topic of thesis and Supervisors 21 ∗ Length of thesis 21 ∗ Timeline 21 ∗ Format of thesis 22 ∗ Presentation of thesis 22
MHealSc Research Proposal Application Form 23 HASC/X 780 Research Project Information for Students and Supervisors 24 Memorandum of Understanding for Postgraduate Supervision 27
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GENERAL INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS
The Master of Health Sciences (endorsed in Bioethics) (MHealSc(Bioethics)), and the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (endorsed in Bioethics) (PGDipHealSc(Bioethics)) programmes offer a comprehensive coverage of theories and issues in Bioethics. They offer continuing education for those holding an undergraduate degree or certificate or having relevant experience. Both qualifications can be completed either full-time or part-time, and either on campus or at a distance. All Bioethics papers are available at a distance. Distance taught papers in Bioethics involve regular audioconferences, and may also involve a residential element. The residential elements are usually at the weekend and are held in Dunedin. You can complete the PGDipHealSc(Bioethics) entirely by Bioethics papers, but one paper may be selected from another discipline, usually from amongst other papers offered within Health-Sciences. You can complete the MHealSc(Bioethics) either by thesis or by course work (papers and a 10,000 word research project). For the course work option, candidates will need to choose papers from outside Bioethics to complete the qualification. Admission to the Programme
The MHealSc(Bioethics) and the PGDipHealSc(Bioethics) are multidisciplinary programmes and those seeking admission may come from widely varying backgrounds. If you have any queries concerning your eligibility or are unsure about your proposed course it is wise to discuss these issues with the Postgraduate Advisor of the Bioethics Centre before making a formal application. Contact details are given below:
Dr Neil Pickering telephone: (03) 474 7007 ext 7399 Postgraduate Advisor or: (03) 474 7977 Bioethics Centre facsimile: (03) 474 7601
University of Otago email: [email protected] PO Box 913 or: [email protected] Dunedin web: http://www.otago.ac.nz/bioethics
Application Process
To apply for either the MHealSc(Bioethics) or PGDipHealSc(Bioethics) you need to fill in an application form. Approval for entry to the qualifications has to be given by the Bioethics Centre and (on its advice) by the Board of Graduate Studies Health Sciences (BoGSHS).
As part of the application procedure you will be asked to propose a programme of papers from the relevant Schedule (see Regulations). It is advisable to discuss your proposed programme of papers with the Postgraduate Advisor before completing this section of the form.
Application forms for both qualifications are included at the rear of this booklet (Appendix 1). They can also be emailed to you. All applications must be accompanied by a curriculum vitae and copies of academic transcripts. Completed application forms should be forwarded to the Administrator, Bioethics Centre, PO Box 913, Dunedin. You will also be required to complete formal enrolment procedures with the University. (see below).
4
Official University of Otago Enrolment and Fees
Once you have been advised that the Board of Graduate Studies Health Sciences (BoGSHS), has approved your admission to the MHealSc(Bioethics) or PGDipHealSc(Bioethics) programme, you can proceed to enrol with the University.
The University of Otago enrolment process takes place in three stages - registration, payment of fees, formal course approval. You are deemed to be formally enrolled by the University only after all three stages have been completed. If you have any queries about the University’s enrolment process, please contact the Bioethics Centre.
Late fees may be imposed for failure to complete any stage by the due dates. Official dates for completion of the enrolment process:
First Semester 2011 Registration forms submitted to the University by: 10 December 2010
(for new students) 15 January 2011 (for returning students)
Pay fees by: 10 February 2011 Course approval by: 18, 21, 22 February 2011
Second Semester 2011 Registration forms submitted by: 15 June 2011 (all students) Pay fees by: 10 July 2011 Course approval by: 7 July 2011
Enrolment after any of the above dates will be considered, but may incur late fees.
The fees payable will vary according to the nature of the paper. These, and details of the fees payable for full-time enrolment in a dissertation, will be sent to you with your enrolment pack. For further information go to: http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/masters/handbook/
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REGULATIONS for the POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA in HEALTH SCIENCES
(endorsed in BIOETHICS) (PGDipHealSc(Bioethics))
1 Admission to the Programme (a) Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-
Chancellor (Health Sciences). (b) Every applicant shall
(i) be a graduate or possess an appropriate health professional qualification requiring at least three years' full-time tertiary study;
(ii) if enrolling for an endorsed diploma, have experience of or be currently working in the relevant field of health care;
(iii) present evidence of ability for advanced level academic study.
2 Structure of the Programme (a) The programme of study shall consist of approved papers, to the value of 120
points, which must be as specified in the schedule of endorsed options if the diploma is to be endorsed in an area of specialisation.
(b) With prior approval, up to two 400-level papers in a relevant or related subject offered by another university or tertiary institution may be credited to the diploma.
(c) The papers shall constitute a coherent and integrated programme of study in the Health Sciences discipline.
3 Duration of the Programme (a) A candidate for the diploma shall normally follow a programme of study for not less
than one year of full-time study or the equivalent in part-time study. (b) A full-time candidate shall complete the requirements for the diploma within two
years of admission to the programme and a part-time candidate shall complete the requirements within four years.
4 Level of Award of the Diploma The diploma may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
5 Variations The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
Note: An application for admission to the programme is required; this is separate from the enrolment process.
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SCHEDULE - PAPERS for the
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA HEALTH SCIENCES (Bioethics)
BITX 401 Theories of Biomedical Ethics 30 points and BITX 404 Ethics and Health Care 30 points and BITX 405 Bioethics in Clinical Practice 30 points * And an approved research methods paper(s) to the value of 30 points. A candidate, with the approval of the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences, may substitute alternative papers to the value of 30 points. Note: * In the case of the PGDipHealSc(Bioethics) the approved research methods paper is BITX 401 so the candidate will need to select another 30 points of papers to complete the 120 points for the qualification, which may or may not be Bioethics papers.
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REGULATIONS for the DEGREE of
MASTER of HEALTH SCIENCES (endorsed in BIOETHICS) (MHealSc(Bioethics))
1 Admission to the Programme (a) Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-
Chancellor (Health Sciences). (b) Every applicant shall
(i) be a graduate or possess an appropriate health professional qualification requiring at least three years' full-time tertiary study;
(ii) present evidence of ability for advanced level academic study. Note: Candidates will normally be expected to have completed the requirements for the Postgraduate
Diploma in Health Sciences, or equivalent, and to have achieved grades averaging B or better.
2 Structure of the Programme (a) The programme of study shall consist of either
(i) approved papers at 400-level or higher worth at least 120 points, and a thesis (120 points) embodying the results of one year of full-time or equivalent part-time supervised research; or
(ii) approved papers and other course components at 400-level or higher worth at least 240 points, including a research method paper or papers to the value of 30 points, and either a research project (30 points) or a dissertation (60 points).
The papers shall constitute a coherent and integrated programme, shall prepare the candidate for the research study, and shall normally include an approved research method paper or papers to the value of 30 points. With approval, papers worth up to a maximum total of 120 points which have been completed at a tertiary education institution other than the University of Otago may be credited to the programme and/or used as the basis for exemptions in terms of regulation 2(c) below.
(b) Where the degree is to be awarded with an endorsed option in an area of specialisation the programme of study must conform to the requirements specified for that option.
(c) A candidate whose qualification for entry to the programme is an Honours degree or postgraduate diploma or equivalent may be exempted from some of the required papers, provided that this previous study is directly relevant to the candidate's proposed and approved programme of study, to a maximum of 120 points.
(d) A candidate may not present a thesis which has previously been accepted for another degree.
(e) The programme of study and the topic and supervisors of the thesis shall be approved by the Board of the Graduate Studies in Health Sciences.
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3 Duration of the Programme (a) A candidate for the degree shall normally follow a programme of study for not less
than two years of full-time study or the equivalent in part-time study. (b) A candidate will normally be expected to satisfy the requirements for the degree
within four years of admission to the programme.
4 Examination of the Thesis (a) Every thesis shall be assessed by at least two examiners, at least one of whom shall be
external to the University. (b) The candidate's supervisors shall not be examiners but may make a report on the work
of the candidate to the Convener of the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences.
(c) Each examiner shall supply a written report on the thesis and recommend a mark and grade on the basis of the work as submitted, and an overall result selected from the options specified in clause (d) below.
(d) The examiners may recommend that a thesis: (i) be accepted without amendments; (ii) be accepted subject to amendments made at the discretion and to the satisfaction
of the Convener of the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences; (iii) does not meet the criteria for the award of the degree, but may be revised and
resubmitted for examination; (iv) does not meet the criteria for the award of the degree, and should be rejected
without right of resubmission. (e) Any amendments or revisions required shall be completed by a specified date to be
determined by the Convener of the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences. (f) A candidate shall be permitted to revise and resubmit a thesis for examination once
only. (g) If a revised and resubmitted thesis is finally accepted, the result shall be either Pass or
Fail (i.e. ungraded) and without eligibility for the award of the degree with distinction or credit.
(h) Where examiners cannot agree on a result, the Convener of the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences should so report to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) who shall arrive at a decision after consulting a referee who should normally be external to the University.
5 Level of Award of the Degree
The degree may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
6 Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
Note: An application for admission to the programme is required; this is separate from the enrolment process.
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SCHEDULE - PAPERS for the MASTER of HEALTH SCIENCES (Bioethics)
Thesis option: BITX 401 Theories of Biomedical Ethics 30 points and BITX 404 Ethics and Health Care 30 points and BITX 405 Bioethics in Clinical Practice 30 points * And, an approved research methods paper(s) to the value of 30 points, and a thesis (120 points). Note: * In the case of the MealHealSc(Bioethics) the approved research methods paper is BITX 401 so the candidate will need to select another 30 points of papers to complete the 120 points of course work required for the qualification. These may or may not be Bioethics papers. Coursework option: BITX 401 Theories of Biomedical Ethics 30 points and BITX 404 Ethics and Health Care 30 points and BITX 405 Bioethics in Clinical Practice 30 points And, further approved BITC/BITX paper(s) to the value of 30 points; further approved paper(s) to the value of 90 points; and a research project (30 points). Note: A candidate, with the approval of the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences,
may substitute alternative papers to the value of 30 points.
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DETAILS of PAPERS for
MHealSc(Bioethics) and PGDipHealSc(Bioethics) BITX 401: Theories of Biomedical Ethics First semester (30 points) Course Convenor: Associate Professor Jing-Bao Nie This paper is an examination of key concepts in ethics such as autonomy, dignity, justice, and duty. The course is intended to elucidate the character of moral debate with respect to the health and well-being of people and the environment.
Assessment: 100% by course work.
Pre-requisite: approval from Director of the Bioethics Centre.
Lectures: 8 Audio-conference lectures, Tuesdays 12noon-2pm (dates to be announced) Plus one residential weekend in Dunedin BITX 403: Issues in Law, Ethics and Medicine Whole year (15 points) Course Convenors: Professor Grant Gillett & Assoc Professor Colin Gavaghan This paper is a compulsory part of course work for MBHL students. Through staff and student led seminars current issues in bioethics and medical law are explored with reference to theories about actual and desirable relationships of law and morals. Assessment: 100% by course work.
Pre-requisite BITC 401 and LAWS 447 or LAWS 448, or approval from the Director of the or co-requisites: Bioethics Centre. Lectures : 6 Audio-conference lectures, Fridays 4.00 - 6.00 pm (dates to be announced) Plus one residential weekend in Dunedin BITX 404: Ethics and Health Care Second Semester (30 points) Course Convenor: Dr Neil Pickering
This paper explores the ethical dimensions of 13 major areas of interest in healthcare provision, including the following: psychiatry; confidentiality; consent and standards of information; human participant research; resource allocation; public health and private good; genetics; assisted reproduction; gender and health; death and transplantation; euthanasia.
This is a seminar based course. Initial seminars each week will be presented by staff. Subsequent seminars will be led by students, who will then write up their presentations in essay form. Students are given the opportunity to select the topics they wish to research in an extended essay.
Assessment: 100% by course work.
Pre-requisite: approval from Director of the Bioethics Centre.
Lectures: 13 Audio-conference lectures, Tuesdays 12 noon - 2 pm
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BITX 405 Bioethics in Clinical Practice Second Semester (30 points) Course Convenors: Dr Lynley Anderson & Professor Grant Gillett
This paper focuses on ethical issues arising at the heart of clinical practice. It takes it that the health care professional’s person to person encounter with his or her patient is highly textured and situated. A series of richly developed case studies will be used to bring out and explore the complexities, layers and tensions inherent even in apparently straight forward practices such as obtaining consent, holding confidences, maintaining professional boundaries and managing multiple roles.
Assessment: 100% by coursework
Pre-requisites: none
Lectures: 8 audio-conference lectures, Thursday 12-2pm (dates to be announced) Plus one residential weekend in Dunedin
BITX 406 Health Research Ethics First Semester (15 points)
Course Convenors: Dr Neil Pickering, Dr Lynley Anderson & Sandy Elkin
This paper introduces the basic ethical aspects of health research on humans. It considers: ethical questions arising in research from conception, design and conduct, right through to dissemination of research results; the role and challenges of ethical review of research; Maori in research; and some fundamentally ethically difficult areas such as research on vulnerable populations. It will be of interest to current and potential health researchers, students of bioethics, members of ethics review committees, and others.
Assessment: 100% by coursework
Pre-requisites: none
Lectures: 8 audio-conference lectures, Thursday 12-2pm (dates to be announced) BITX 407 Advanced Health Research Ethics Second Semester (15 points) Course Convenor: Dr Neil Pickering, Dr Lynley Anderson & Sandy Elkin
This paper explores the more complex and controversial areas of research theory and practice. These include the social and political contexts of research, new technologies, situations where consent is compromised, the use of deception, role overlap, the use of information gained unethically, and research involving animals. This paper is available by distance.
Assessment: 100% by coursework
Pre-requisites: BITX 406 or agreement of the Director of the Bioethics Centre
Lectures: 8 audio-conference lectures, 2 hours (dates to be announced)
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BITC 410: Special Topic Second Semester (15 points) Pre-requisite: BITC 401 or approval from Director of the Bioethics Centre.
BITC 411: Special Topic First Semester (15 points) Pre-requisite: BITC 401 or approval from Director of the Bioethics Centre. BITC 412: Special Topic Each Semester (15 points)
Pre-requisite: BITC 401 or approval from Director of the Bioethics Centre.
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APPENDIX 1
Application forms for:
PGDipBHL(Bioethics)
and
MHealSc(Bioethics)
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University of Otago : Division of Health Sciences
Application for Admission to the
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN HEALTH SCIENCES Endorsed in Bioethics – PGDipHealSc(Bioethics)
1. Name: …………………………………………………………………………………………………
(Surname) (Other names)
2. Student ID number: ……………………………………………………………………………………
3. Citizenship: are you a New Zealand citizen? yes no a permanent resident? yes no an international student? yes no
4. Tertiary Qualifications (include any qualifications to be completed this year) Degree/Diploma Institution Year Graduated
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
5. Other Professional Qualifications (for which you must attach copies of supporting documentation)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
6. Do you wish to study full-time? or part-time?
7. Do you hope to go on to a Master of Health Sciences? yes no
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8. Papers for which you wish to enrol. Year(s) in which you wish to enrol:
(You must take 90 points of Bioethics papers including Bioethics methods paper BITX 401)
Papers Code Paper Name Year
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………….……
………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………….....
………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………….
9. Credits sought for prior postgraduate study:
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
10. Do you propose to study by distance teaching? yes no
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Signature of Applicant: ………………………………………………………... Date:………………….…
Date of Birth: ……………………………………………………………………………………………….
Occupation: …………………………………………………………………………………………………
Mailing Address:
Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Address: …………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Telephone: (home) …………………………………………. (work) …………………………………….
(Mobile) ……………………………………….. Fax ………………………………………
Email: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………
I certify that the information provided above is correct and I authorise the University of Otago to seek authentication of this information from any relevant source.
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Checklist • A copy of your academic record must accompany this application form. A suitable computer printout of
your University of Otago record can be obtained from the University Information Centre. In the case of records from other institutions, a certified copy of your original record is required.
• Have you included a copy of your CV? and other supporting documentation?
• Please read and familiarize yourself with the regulations governing entry to your course as set out in the University of Otago Calendar.
PLEASE NOTE: When your Application for Admission to this programme has been approved (by the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences (BoGSHS)), you should ensure that your enrolment at the University of Otago is completed on time. • Register for the papers you will be studying in the current academic year. Either register online, or obtain
a university registration form from the University Information Centre, complete and return it by: 10 December if you are attending this university for the first time 15 January if you have attended the university previously
• A Form for Course Approval will be sent to you.
• Take your Form for Course Approval to the Bioethics Centre Course Advisor for signature, and return the form to the University Information Centre no later than the prescribed date (see Guide to Enrolment).
• You have a maximum of 2 years continuous full-time study to complete this programme.
Please forward this application to: Course Advisor Bioethics Centre Medical & Surgical Sciences Department Dunedin School of Medicine University of Otago PO Box 913 Dunedin, New Zealand Telephone: +64 3 474 7977 Fax: +64 3 474 7601 Email: [email protected] Webpage: http://www.otago.ac.nz/bioethics
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University of Otago : Division of Health Sciences
Application for Admission to the
MASTER OF HEALTH SCIENCES Endorsed in Bioethics – MHealSc(Bioethics)
1. Full Name: …………………………………………………………………………………………………
(Surname) (Other names)
2. Student ID number: ………………………………………………………………………………………..
3. Citizenship: are you a New Zealand Citizen? yes no a Permanent Resident? yes no an International Student? yes no
4. Tertiary Qualifications (include any qualifications to be completed this year) Degree / Diploma Institution Year Graduated
...…………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
5. Other Professional Qualifications (for which you must attach copies of supporting documentation)
……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
6. Do you wish to study full-time? or part-time
7. Do you wish to undertake the Master’s course by:
papers and a thesis coursework only option
8. Papers for which you wish to enrol. Year(s) in which you wish to enrol: (90 points Bioethics papers, plus 30 points further approved papers and a thesis, or, 120 points Bioethics papers, further approved papers to the value of 90 points, and a 30 point project)
Paper code Paper name Year
……………………………………………………………………………………………….......
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
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9. Credits sought for prior postgraduate study:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
10. Proposed research topic of thesis (if known):
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
11. If known, have you discussed your proposed research topic with the Bioethics Course Advisor?
yes no Name of contact(s) ……………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………
12. Previous research experience: ………………………………………………….……………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………......
13. Do you propose to study by distance teaching? yes no
________________________________________________________________________________
Signature of Applicant: ………………………………………………………... Date:………………….…
Date of Birth: ……………………………………………………………………………………………….
Occupation: …………………………………………………………………………………………………
Mailing Address:
Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Address: …………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Telephone: (home) …………………………………………. (work) …………………………………….
(Mobile) ……………………………………….. Fax ………………………………………
Email: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………
I certify that the information provided above is correct and I authorise the University of Otago to seek authentication of this information from any relevant source.
19
Checklist • A copy of your academic record must accompany this application form. A suitable computer printout of
your University of Otago record can be obtained from the University Information Centre. In the case of records from other institutions, a certified copy of your original record is required.
• Have you included a copy of your CV? and other supporting documentation.
• Please read and familiarize yourself with the regulations governing entry to your course as set out in the University of Otago Calendar.
PLEASE NOTE: When your Application for Admission to this programme has been approved (by the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences (BoGSHS)), you should ensure that your enrolment at the University of Otago is completed on time. • Register for the papers you will be studying in the current academic year. Either register online, or obtain
a university registration form from the University Information Centre, complete and return it by: 10 December if you are attending this university for the first time 15 January if you have attended the university previously
• A Form for Course Approval will be sent to you.
• Take your Form for Course Approval to the Bioethics Centre Course Advisor for signature, and return the form to the University Information Centre no later than the prescribed date (see Guide to Enrolment).
• You have a maximum of 4 years continuous study to complete this programme.
Please forward this application to: Course Advisor Bioethics Centre Medical & Surgical Sciences Department Dunedin School of Medicine University of Otago PO Box 913 Dunedin, New Zealand Telephone: +64 3 474 7977 Fax: +64 474 7601 Email: [email protected] Webpage: http://www.otago.ac.nz/bioethics
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APPENDIX 2
Guidance notes for MHealSc thesis
and
Application form: MHealSc Research Proposal
and
HASC/X 780 Research Project Information for students and supervisors
and
Memorandum of Understanding for Postgraduate Supervision
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GUIDANCE NOTES on MHealSc(Bioethics) THESIS Scope and objectives of the Thesis
The thesis represents one full-time year’s work or its equivalent in part-time study. It should contain the results of a piece of independent research. The thesis should demonstrate that the candidate has the ability to carry out research and the ability to carry out constructive criticism, and to report the results of such work clearly, accurately, succinctly and critically. It is not required that the results represent a substantial contribution to knowledge in the field. Student will master skills in: • Developing a research proposal to explore a specific research question; • Identifying and accessing the resources necessary to undertake the research; • Reviewing and analysing relevant literature; • Choosing a research methodology appropriate to the problem and rigorously apply the
methodology; • Reporting the project, particularly its purpose, background, methods, findings, conclusions
and recommendations; • Interpreting the findings and identifying the wider implications of the project.
Topic of Thesis and Supervisors Having identified a possible topic area, students should approach the Bioethics Postgraduate Advisor to discuss their options. The appointment of supervisors is made by the Director of the Bioethics Centre in collaboration with staff and students. When the supervisors have been appointed, the candidate should work with the supervisors to put together their Research Proposal to go to the Board of Graduate Studies (Health Sciences) (BoGSHS) for its approval. The Board meets monthly, and frequently requires amendments and resubmission. For some research students may also need ethical approval. Candidates need to allow time for this in their planning. Length of Thesis
Most MHealSc(Bioethics) thesis should normally be limited to 40,000 words of text, excluding appendices, footnotes and bibliographies. However, much more significant than the length is the thought and research which is reflected in the thesis. Timeline (for full-time students):
February Discuss possible topic with Postgraduate Advisor
February/March Appointment of supervisor
March Initial reading and preparation of thesis proposal for Board of Graduate Study (BoGSHS) submission.
April Research proposal considered by BoGS(HS) (allow time for revision).
April onward Work on thesis.
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Format of Thesis
1. The Preliminaries a) title page b) abstract c) acknowledgements d) tables of contents e) list of tables, if any f) list of illustrations or figures, if any g) glossary (can include abbreviations and acronyms) 2. The Text a) introductory chapter b) main body of the work divided into chapters c) final chapter which usually includes a summary, conclusion and any recommendations 3. The Reference Section a) bibliography or references b) appendix or appendices (if required) Presentation of Thesis for examination ∗ Thesis shall be in typescript on A4 size paper with a margin for binding of not less than 30
mm. ∗ Every copy of a thesis submitted must include an abstract, not exceeding 500 words, in a
form suitable for publication. ∗ Every copy of a thesis which is deposited in the University Library system must include a
declaration signed by the candidate concerning access to the thesis. ∗ Candidates must submit to the Administrator, Bioethics Centre, three copies of their thesis. ∗ Thesis shall be submitted for examination in a temporary (soft) binding, not spiral binding. ∗ All costs associated with thesis presentation for examination are the responsibility of the
student. ∗ The degree for which the thesis is required shall not be awarded until two permanently
bound copies of the thesis, corrected if necessary, have been submitted to the Manager, Student Administration.
∗ Resubmission of a thesis is not permitted except on the recommendation of the examiners. ∗ Where a thesis has been rejected the author is not precluded from being a candidate on a
future occasion for the degree in which he or she has previously failed. For further information go to: http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/masters/handbook/ The University of Otago Library has also published helpful guidelines on the preparation of thesis / dissertations, go to: http://www.library.otago.ac.nz/research/theses.html
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Thesis Full-time Project Part-time Name of Student: …………………………………………………………………………………. Address for correspondence: …………………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Telephone: (home) …………………….…………… (work) …………………………………… Email: …………………………………………………………………..………………………… Supervisor(s): ……………………………………………………………………………………... Department(s) in which research will be undertaken: …………………………………………… (please assign relativities if more than one department is involved) … …………………………………………
_______________________________________________________________________ Papers already taken / approved to be taken for MHealSc: …………………………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………….. ……………………………………………………………………………. Title of Project: …………………………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………….. Signature: ……………………………………………………..……….. (Supervisor) Signature ………………………………………………………………. (Supervisor) Signature ………………………………………………………………. (Candidate) Date of Submission: ………………………………………… NOTE: Please attach details (not more than 3 pages) of your proposed project, including: Aim, Background, Research Design/Analysis, Timeline and References
MASTER of HEALTH SCIENCE RESEARCH PROPOSAL
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HASC/X 780 Research Project: Information for students and supervisors
Course prescription A supervised, original research project of up to 10,000 words in a field of Health Sciences usually applied to the student’s area of practice (e.g. a systematic review, pilot study, audit or case study). Note: The project is planned, conducted and reported by the student under the supervision of an academic member of staff. In some instances it may be appropriate to have a second or co-supervisor. Duration and points value This is a 0.25EFTS, 30 point paper. It is completed in a single semester (either semester one or semester two). Learning outcomes The MHealSc graduate profile states that a student who has successfully completed this award will be able to develop a research proposal to address a research question; appreciate the ethical issues concerning the project, and be able to carry out independent research with supervisory support. Successful completion of this research project paper, along with a paper in research methods, as part fulfilment of a MHealSc programme of study indicates that the student has met these requirements.
Thus, on completion of the research project the student will be able to: • Master advance knowledge and theoretical and conceptual understanding in a
specified field of study. • Critically evaluate the production of knowledge, and core theoretical/conceptual
elements in their field. • Recognise when information is needed, and to locate, evaluate and use the
information effectively. • Understand current issues and debates in their field. • Build a coherent argument on the basis of synthesis of existing knowledge, theory and
original reflection. • Discuss the general principles of design, conduct and reporting of original research. Frequently asked questions about HASC/X 780 Research Project
1. How do I find a topic and supervisor? You are looking for a subject area/topic that interests you, and is of interest to and aligned with the methodological expertise of the person who will supervise you. This means you need to start by finding out which academic staff members with Health Sciences have subject/topic interests that overlap with yours. You can do this by checking out the webpages for the various departments in the health sciences (as they list research interests and publications of staff), talking to staff and other students, and in particular looking for publications in your area of interest that have been written by Otago academics. It is also worth looking for expertise in the method of enquiry of interest to you; if an academic has only published qualitative work and you are planning a systematic review of randomised trials this might be of importance to you or it might not. Some academics and students consider that a ‘good’ fit requires both content and methodological expertise, whereas others are happy with one or the other.
Once you have identified a possible supervisor then you need to approach them to discuss your research ideas and see if they are available to supervise. When you approach a potential supervisor, most will find it helpful if you have a brief written summary of your possible research question(s) or topic(s), and a clear indication of when you are planning to do the
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project (i.e. in which semester(s)/year). This means a supervisor can quickly re-direct you to a more suitable person if they feel the overlap with their own expertise is not sufficient or they are not available to supervise.
The process of deciding on a topic and supervisor is one of negotiation. You may need to discuss your ideas with more than one supervisor to find the person you feel is the ‘best fit’ for you, and you may need to compromise on topic or method to find a ‘good fit’. 2. What type of project would be suitable for HASC/X780? For most students this will be their first attempt at research, and many students will complete this paper as distance learners. Given the practical constraints of a small project report (10,000 words approximately), distance supervision (for distance taught students), and completion of the work in a single semester the project will be relatively limited in scope. Research will be confined to projects that (should ethical approval be required) can be approved by the University of Otago Ethics Committee (category A or B), or approved under the expedited National (regional) Ethics Committee process for observational research, or are part of a larger study that already has ethical approval. Examples of suitable projects include, but are not limited to: • A systematic review in a topic area where there are relatively few published papers, with
or without a research proposal for a new study that would address one of the ‘gaps’ in the literature.
• A narrative review of a topic with a more extensive literature, with or without a research proposal for a new study that would address one of the ‘gaps’ in the literature.
• A historical document analysis. • A small pilot study. • An audit.
Don’t be surprised to find potential supervisors telling you that your initial ideas for a project are too big or not suitable to a project; this is very common. It can take time to whittle down and shape your initial ideas into an appropriate and feasible project. This process of refining your ideas will be done in consultation with your supervisor. 3. When does HASC/X780 begin and end? Technically, the paper begins on the first day of the semester in which you are enrolled. However, to successfully complete this paper you will need an agreed topic and supervisor in place before that so you are ready to start your project as soon as the semester begins. To further enhance your chances of completing successfully within the semester, it is recommended that your research proposal has already been approved and ethics approval granted if appropriate. For more information about the process of approval see below. It is expected your project report will be handed in for examination no later than the last day of the examination period of semester in which you are enrolled. Your supervisor will be able to tell you this date, and it can be found on the university website at http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/exams.html#1 4. How are my topic and supervisory arrangements approved? The project proposal is prepared by the student in consultation with the supervisor. The proposal will usually be three to four pages in length and include: the research question, the background (justification) for the question, the method of enquiry, the type of ‘data’ to be collected and proposed analysis, the ethical considerations, and a timeline.
The project proposal is submitted to the Head of the supervisor’s department (or nominee, if the Head of Department is also the supervisor) with a front-sheet summarising the project title and supervisory arrangements (see appendix). The Head of Department (or nominee) may ask for the proposal to be amended if there are concerns about the scope or feasibility of the research. Once approved, the Head of Department (or nominee) is responsible for sending a copy of the signed front-sheet and a copy of the approved proposal to the Board of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences (BoGSHS) for noting. The Board may ask for further information.
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5. How much work is involved in HASC/X780? Based on expected student workloads, a 30 point paper is anticipated to take around 300 hours. Distribution of workload, timelines, supervisory contact and non-contact hours are negotiated between supervisor and student, and expressed within a Memorandum of Understanding for Supervision. Although guided by the supervisor, the student is expected to work independently and to take responsibility for meeting deadlines. 6. How do I work with my supervisor? The key to working with your supervisor is communication. It is strongly recommended that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for supervision is completed before the project begins; this process encourages the expectations of both student and supervisor to be explicit from the outset. Negotiating the MoU includes agreeing the responsibilities of supervisor and student, timelines, deadlines, methods of communication, and frequency of meetings, etc. An example template for the MoU can be found at http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/masters/index.html#3. In preparing the MoU it may be useful to access these two documents: • Student perceptions of quality supervision
(www.otago.ac.nz/study/phd/docs/studentperceptsupervision.pdf) • Supervisor perceptions of quality research candidates
(http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/phd/docs/pg_candidates10reasons.pdf) 7. How do I present my project for examination? The project report should be prepared and presented in a manner consistent with the University of Otago’s guidelines on the presentation of theses. Project reports may be up to 10,000 words in length, excluding the reference list and appendices. Three spiral bound copies are submitted to the Head of the supervisor’s department (or nominee if the Head of Department is also the supervisor) for examination.
The Head of Department (or nominee) will convene the examination process1. Two examiners are appointed (neither of which may the supervisor) from the department in which the student is enrolled. If necessary an examiner for another department within the University may be used.
Once the examination process is complete, the supervisor may request a soft-bound ‘library’ copy of the work. 8. What can I do if I’m not happy with how my project is going? If you have problems with the project itself (such as collecting or analysing the data, or writing the report) your supervisor is the appropriate person to talk to. If you have concerns about the supervision you are receiving then talk, in the first instance, to the Head of the supervisor’s department (or nominee if the Head of Department is the supervisor). If the problems are not resolved then the next step is to communicate with the appropriate postgraduate office2. Note: the MoU includes a section on what to do if you are experiencing problems with your project, so the supports available to you should have been discussed before the project begins. ____________________________________________________ 1 Templates of marking schedules, letter to examiners, report sheets for examiners, and all other examination related paperwork are available to all departments through the Postgraduate Programmes Administrator, [email protected]. 2 Dunedin Students: Leonie McGeady, Postgraduate Programmes Administrator [email protected]. Christchurch Students: Ruth Helms, Manager Academic Programnmes [email protected] Wellington Students: Trevor Williams, Postgraduate Liaison Officer [email protected].
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MEMORANDUM of UNDERSTANDING for POSTGRADUATE SUPERVISION
This material is designed to be used in early discussions between supervisor(s) and postgraduate student. It summarises the points that need to be discussed and agreed upon, and contains spaces to record any agreements made. Such agreements are statements of intent only and may need to be reviewed as the research proceeds. 1. University Regulations: the student should be familiar with the regulations of the specific degree as
printed in the University Calendar, but
* Are there any points which need clarification? 2. Ethics * Do any ethical issues need to be considered in the research project? * Is ethical clearance required from an appropriate Committee? 3. What University procedures are available in the event that a student is not happy with the progress of the supervision? * If publications arise from the research, will supervisor(s) expect to be co-author(s)? 4. Meetings Issues to discuss might include:
* What is the intended frequency of meetings? * Will the student have access to the supervisor outside of scheduled meeting times? * Who has responsibility to initiate meetings if they are not scheduled regularly?
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* What should happen when one person cannot make a meeting?
5. Absence of Supervisor
Is it likely that the supervisor will be absent on leave during the project, and if so, who will be the alternative supervisor? 6. Advice and support Issues to discuss might include: * Development of the research proposal: how much input will there be from the supervisor? * How often, how detailed and how rapid should feedback from the supervisor on the general progress of the project be? * Is the student likely to need special assistance with specific aspects of the project or during the writing up stage? 7. Does the Department expect the student:
* to give seminar presentations of work-in-progress? * to meet any other expectations? Student ……………………………………………………… date ……………….…. Supervisor 1 ……………………………………………………… date …………………… Supervisor 2 ……………………………………………………… date ……………………
