Frequently asked questions about Honours - and answers

Honours primarily consists of a major research project leading to a thesis. The fields of study are pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical science and pharmacology. An Honours degree enhances opportunities for a scientific career and is the usual prerequisite for further study for a research higher degree (Masters or Doctorate).

Honours students are expected to have a good academic record, including at least credit average in the discipline of specialisation. Initiative, motivation and perseverance are important attributes for success in Honours, and evidence of these qualities would be of great assistance for selection. Prospective students should discuss their career plans and interests with the Head of School or other academic staff in Pharmacy in order to identify an appropriate field of research for the major Honours project.

Objective

The Honours course aims to provide experience and training in research in pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical science or pharmacology. This overall objective is served by the following goals:

• to extend knowledge and understanding in specific topics of interest in pharmacy and related sciences,
• to improve skills in critically reading the literature and communicating effectively in science,
• to learn particular research methods and techniques,
• to develop the ability to plan and carry out a research project, and to prepare a report on the results.

Honours students specialise in a particular field of study and at the same time are exposed to the great range of opportunities for undertaking higher degrees and following careers in pharmacy practice or the drug sciences.

Admission
This separate graduate honours course is available to those graduates who hold a degree in pharmacy. Candidates are normally expected to have a credit average. Honours applicants below credit average will be considered based on a combination of academic record and relevant experience after graduation (minimum of three years).

Enrolment: semesters 1,2,3,4,5 - starting in any semester.

Prospective students should discuss their career plans and interests with academic staff in Pharmacy in order to identify an appropriate field of research for the major Honours project. Although the Tasmanian School of Pharmacy has a relatively wide range of research activities, it does not cover all aspects of pharmacy and the drug sciences and it is necessary to ensure that the appropriate resources and supervisor are available to suit each prospective Honours student.

Major Research Project
A topic is selected after discussion with academic staff. The aim is to identify a problem which suits the interests and expected capabilities of the candidate, and is appropriate to the resources and supervisory capacity of the School. Once the project and supervisor have been chosen, work can begin, usually with a literature review. A provisional timetable is then drawn up, including reference to items which need early attention to minimise delays (eg ordering laboratory supplies, applying for ethical approval).

A literature review (<7000 words) may be required as part of the research process, which should elaborate the background of the topic. Although this is not directly marked, it can form the introduction to the thesis and assist contextualise the research project. This should be discussed with the supervisor early in the candidature.

Preparation of Thesis and Submission
The thesis is the major outcome of the Honours year, and is the major single determinant of the grade awarded. the thesis is judged on content and presentation. The thesis is the formal report on what the student has achieved with the major project. It is includes a review of methods used, presentation of the results obtained, analysis of the results and discussion of the findings in relation to other published studies. A good thesis is clearly and concisely written, shows a good critical knowledge of the literature, demonstrates well-planned and executed data acquisition, gives a thorough and effective analysis of the findings and draws appropriate conclusions with reference to the literature. The level of difficulty of the project and the independence shown by the student are taken into account when grading the thesis (and seminar presentations) See Declaration of work..

Work on the thesis should commence as soon as the literature has been reviewed. The methods section can be drafted once data collection begins.The content and style should be discussed and planned with the supervisor, who will read and correct drafts. The thesis should conform to the guidelines in the Research Higher Degrees Handbook.

Two soft-bound copies and an electronic copy on CD-Rom must be submitted. Students are expected to make corrections after examination and before hard binding the final versions. At least two copies are required for the School (front office and supervisor). The thesis must be submitted two weeks before the completion of 12 months enrolment for marking. The final seminar will take place after completion of marking.

Assessment
Each student is assigned two examiners, who independently grade the thesis. The average marks are used, but if there are significant differences then a third examiner may be appointed or advice from the Head of School may be sought. The supervisor is required to declare the extent of assistance given to the student in planning and carrying out the work, following the literature, analysing data and correcting drafts of the thesis.

Satisfactory progress will be required in order for a student to remain in the Honours program. In addition to completing the assigned work on time, the candidate will be expected to maintain an active interest in other research activities in the School, as shown by attending all the Honours seminars and other research presentations.

First Class Honours (>80%) requires a very good performance in all areas: initiative and creativity, research planning, conduct of the study, analysis of data, understanding of the issues, oral and written presentation of work, and ability to meet deadlines.

Second Class Honours is in two levels. Honours 2U (70-79%) requires a high quality performance in all the areas above without the same depth and/or freedom from errors. Honours 2L (60-69%) indicates a competent performance but with important problems in one aspect or another.

Third Class Honours (50-59%) indicates a satisfactory performance but without evidence of the independence and quality required for 2U. Marks under 50% are not awarded Honours.

See also Honours Schedule

Further information
Students who are interested in Honours study should discuss this with the Head of School or other members of academic staff in Pharmacy.

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